Best Dire Straits Podcasts (2025)

1
The Waterboys - Fisherman's Blues (1988) 30:08

7h ago30:08

30:08

Released in October 1988, Fisherman’s Blues marked a significant departure for The Waterboys, showcasing a rich blend of Celtic folk, country, and rock influences. The album is a soulful exploration of frontman Mike Scott's evolving musical vision, moving away from the "big music" sound of their earlier records toward a more organic and roots-orien…

1
John Martyn - Solid Air (1973) 27:35

7d ago27:35

27:35

Unlock the secrets behind John Martyn's genre-defying masterpiece "Solid Air" as we uncover how Martyn, much like Bob Dylan, reshaped the boundaries of British folk with his bold fusion of jazz, blues, and rock. Ever wondered how an album recorded in just eight days could produce such timeless tracks? We promise you'll gain fresh insights into the …

1
Scott Devendorf (The National) 47:39

27d ago47:39

47:39

I first heard The National 17 years ago this month I think, and I fell in love instantly. They’ve continued to be one of my favourite bands, and it’s been great to see them ascend to new heights of popularity and pursue interesting creative directions in the band and outside. Guitarist Aaron Dessner is now a key producer and co-writer for the likes…

1
David & Peter Brewis (Field Music) / Walter Schreifels (Rival Schools) 1:19:07

1M ago1:19:07

1:19:07

It’s a busy one. My guests this episode are Sunderland’s David and Peter Brewis, known collectively as Field Music, and Walter Schreifels of New York post-hardcore rockers Rival Schools. You may remember David Brewis from Field Music has been on the podcast before. I’ve been a fan of the band since 2007’s magnificent “Tones Of Town” album. Dependin…

1
Episode 14: Unraveling the Gordian Knot; the Power of Network Engagement 55:49

1M ago55:49

55:49

Guest Reyes Cole joins host Dave Brown to discuss the subject of Network Engagement, a growing area of doctrinal importance for various types of operational analysis, and one that underpins nearly every operational mission set, as well as every one of the currently identified Irregular Warfare activities. Articles: Outmatched - Shortfalls in Counte…

1
Willie Colón & Rubén Blades - Siembra (1978) 32:02

1M ago32:02

32:02

Siembra is a landmark salsa album by Willie Colón and Rubén Blades, released in 1978. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest Latin music albums of all time and a defining work in the salsa genre. The album blends traditional Afro-Caribbean rhythms with socially conscious lyrics, addressing themes like social justice, urban struggles, and Lati…

1
Jay-Z - Reasonable Doubt (1996) 34:29

1M ago34:29

34:29

Jay-Z’s Reasonable Doubt, released on June 25, 1996, is a landmark album in hip-hop, celebrated for its nuanced storytelling, lyrical sophistication, and vivid portrayal of street life and ambition. As Jay-Z's debut, it showcases his rise from hustler to hip-hop mogul, blending introspective themes of ambition, betrayal, and survival. With producti…

1
The Making of “Uncut” Magazine w/ Michael Bonner (Editor) 47:35

2M ago47:35

47:35

So, actually quite a personal episode for me this week. When I was 16 years old I started a media GNVQ at a local college, and during the first year there was a week allocated for work experience, so around June 2000 I spent a week working at Uncut magazine. My babysitter for that week was Michael Bonner, who in 2018 officially became the magazine’…

1
Bachman-Turner Overdrive - Not Fragile (1974) 28:48

2M ago28:48

28:48

Not Fragile by Bachman-Turner Overdrive, released in 1974, is a landmark hard rock album that solidified the band’s presence in the rock scene. Known for its raw, muscular sound, the album features heavy guitar riffs and the deep, distinctive vocals of Randy Bachman. The title track, Not Fragile, sets the tone with its powerful, aggressive sound, w…

1
The Beatles - Please Please Me (1963) 39:10

2M ago39:10

39:10

Please Please Me, the debut studio album by The Beatles, burst onto the scene in 1963, marking the beginning of Beatlemania and showcasing the group's electrifying energy and raw talent. Recorded in a single day at Abbey Road Studios, the album captures the essence of their early sound—a mix of rock and roll, skiffle, and R&B influences. With Lenno…

1
Phil Manzanera (Roxy Music) 38:37

2M ago38:37

38:37

Phil Manzanera has had a remarkable life. Best known as the lead guitarist in Roxy Music, he’s also worked as a writer, producer and/or performer with the likes of David Gilmour, Steve Winwood, Nico, Brian Eno and many more. He’s just released a mammoth box set of his solo work which dates back to 1975’s “Diamond Head” album. The box, entitled “50 …

1
Dire Straits - Self-Titled (1978) 29:40

2M ago29:40

29:40

Dire Straits' self-titled debut album, released in 1978, introduced the world to the band’s stripped-down sound and Mark Knopfler’s distinctive guitar work. Blending elements of rock, blues, and country, the album was a refreshing contrast to the punk and disco sounds that dominated the late '70s. Its most famous track, "Sultans of Swing," is a sto…

1
Beastie Boys - Paul's Boutique (1989) 32:19

2M ago32:19

32:19

Paul's Boutique by Beastie Boys, released in 1989, is a groundbreaking album that defied expectations with its dense, sample-heavy production. Moving away from the party-anthem style of their debut Licensed to Ill, the trio teamed up with production duo the Dust Brothers to create a sonic collage that blends funk, rock, jazz, and obscure records. K…

1
Jeff Wayne on “The War of the Worlds” 37:57

2M ago37:57

37:57

Released on the 9th June 1978, “Jeff Wayne’s Musical Version of The War of the Worlds” went on to sell an estimated 15 million copies. As you likely know, the album features an adaptation of H.G. Wells’ classic sci-fi story, narrated by actor Richard Burton set to music, with vocal performances from the likes of David Essex, Justin Hayward, Phil Ly…

1
Frankie Goes to Hollywood - Welcome to the Pleasuredome (1984) 29:42

3M ago29:42

29:42

Welcome to the Pleasuredome by Frankie Goes to Hollywood, released in 1984, is an ambitious and theatrical debut album that blends new wave, synth-pop, and dance music with a bold, provocative aesthetic. Spanning over an hour, the double album features iconic hits like "Relax" and "Two Tribes," which challenged social norms and pushed boundaries wi…

1
Episode 13: The Dolus Deception: Deepfake Technology and the Fight Against Falsehood & Disinformation 1:17:34

3M ago1:17:34

1:17:34

Guests Dr. Hany Farid and Ted Schlein join host Col. Dave Brown and co-host Dr. Tim Schultz to discuss deepfake technology and the challenge of the proliferation of fake news and disinformation. One of Aesop’s fables was titled Prometheus and Dolus, or sometimes alternatively titled, On Truth and Falsehood. In the fable, Prometheus can bring to lif…

1
Television - Marquee Moon (1977) 25:52

3M ago25:52

25:52

Marquee Moon, the debut album by Television, released in 1977, is widely regarded as a cornerstone of punk rock and post-punk. With its angular, intricate guitar work and poetic lyrics, the album broke away from the fast-and-furious energy of typical punk, offering a more artful and complex sound. The title track, "Marquee Moon," with its extended …

1
Episode 12: Playing with Fire: Election Violence in the U.S. in 2024 & Beyond 1:13:50

3M ago1:13:50

1:13:50

Professor Jacob Ware joins host Col. Dave Brown and Dr. Timothy Hoyt to discuss both current manifestations of and potential future episodes of election violence in this presidential election cycle. Quoting from one of Professor Ware's recent articles, "counterterrorism scholars and analysts have predicted for [some time] that the 2024 presidential…

1
Brian Eno - Another Green World (1975) 31:52

3M ago31:52

31:52

Another Green World by Brian Eno, released in 1975, is a groundbreaking album that blends ambient soundscapes with more traditional song structures, marking a pivotal moment in Eno’s transition from rock music to the ambient genre he would later help define. The album is a rich tapestry of atmospheric instrumentals and lyrical tracks, using a wide …

1
Donovan - Sunshine Superman (1966) 23:22

3M ago23:22

23:22

Sunshine Superman, released in 1966 by Scottish singer-songwriter Donovan, is often regarded as a pioneering album in the psychedelic rock genre. Blending folk, jazz, pop, and Eastern influences, the album showcases Donovan's signature dreamy vocals and poetic lyricism. The title track, "Sunshine Superman," became a major hit, with its swirling mel…

1
Episode 11: Viribus Mari Victoria: The U.S. Naval War College – 140 Years of Excellence 1:27:25

4M ago1:27:25

1:27:25

In this special episode, on the occasion of the 140th Anniversary of the U.S. Naval War College, we take a break from the annals of Irregular Warfare and focus on the historical legacy and significance of this storied institution. Viribus Mari Victoria: or from the Latin (Victory thru Sea Power) is the motto of the college, and Dr. John Hattendorf …

1
Tony Banks (Genesis) 47:29

3M ago47:29

47:29

The last time Genesis keyboard player extraordinaire Tony Banks came on the show was a few years ago, and we discussed a box set of his solo albums. Since then there has been a final Genesis tour, “The Last Domino?”, which I got to see the opening and closing nights of, and Tony now has a new boxset compiling his three classical albums “7”, “6”, an…

1
Carole King - Tapestry (1971) 18:50

4M ago18:50

18:50

Tapestry by Carole King, released in 1971, is a landmark singer-songwriter album that captures the essence of 1970s folk-pop. Known for its deeply personal lyrics and soulful melodies, the album blends introspection with universal themes of love, loss, and resilience. Featuring iconic tracks like "It's Too Late," "I Feel the Earth Move," and "(You …

1
Steppenwolf - Self-Titled (1968) 19:19

4M ago19:19

19:19

Steppenwolf's self-titled debut album, released in 1968, is a landmark in the development of hard rock and heavy metal. The album features a gritty blend of blues, rock, and psychedelia, with raw vocals and distorted guitar work that set the tone for the band's rebellious sound. The record includes the iconic track "Born to Be Wild," which became a…

1
Gemma Hayes 53:10

4M ago53:10

53:10

Gemma Hayes is a singer-songwriter from Ireland, and after a 10 year gap she is about to release her 7th album “Blind Faith” and, spoiler alert, it’s really, really good. We discuss the album’s long gestation, balancing motherhood and creativity, and I was also keen to dig into her debut album, the Dave Friedman produced “Night On My Side” from 200…

1
Deep Purple - Made in Japan (1972) 22:48

4M ago22:48

22:48

Made in Japan is a live album by Deep Purple, recorded during their 1972 tour of Japan and released later that year. It captures the band's energetic and powerful performances, highlighting their musical prowess at the height of their career. The album features extended versions of some of their best-known tracks, including "Smoke on the Water," "H…

1
Episode 10: Shadows of 9/11: Simmering Threats & Dormant Dangers 1:14:14

4M ago1:14:14

1:14:14

Marking the 23rd anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, guests Dr. Tim Hoyt and Dr. Craig Whiteside join host Col. Dave Brown as they revisit their policy roundtable 2019 article, “Retrospect and Prospect: On Endless War,” and continue their discussion and analysis of not only how American thinking and counter-terrorism efforts have evolved, but that the…

1
John Cale - Paris 1919 (1973) 17:48

4M ago17:48

17:48

Paris 1919 by John Cale, released in 1973, is a lush, baroque pop album that blends literary and historical themes with elegant orchestration. Known for its sophisticated arrangements, the album features strings, horns, and piano, creating a sound that is both whimsical and melancholic. Cale's lyrics weave together reflections on European history, …

1
Steve Howe (Yes/Asia) 29:55

4M ago29:55

29:55

Steve Howe is a guitarist best known for his work with Yes, who of course are a cornerstone of progressive rock. The albums “Close To The Edge”, “Fragile”, and “The Yes Album” are essential listening, as far as I’m concerned. Steve had a period of time out of Yes in the 80s and early 90s but had success with another band, Asia, before rejoining Yes…

1
Simon and Garfunkel - Bridge Over Troubled Water (1970) 21:47

5M ago21:47

21:47

"Bridge Over Troubled Water" by Simon & Garfunkel, released in 1970, is a timeless masterpiece that blends folk rock with rich orchestration and soulful harmonies. The album, featuring Paul Simon's poetic songwriting and Art Garfunkel's ethereal vocals, explores themes of love, loss, and redemption. The title track, with its soaring gospel-inspired…

1
Mike Mills (R.E.M.) 27:34

5M ago27:34

27:34

What to say about REM? It might actually be hard for teenagers today, or even 20-somethings, to appreciate how big R.E.M. were in the 90s. For a while, even when they were reinventing themselves, or tackling themes not especially conducive to pop hits, they just seemed to keep getting bigger. They signed the most expensive record deal in history in…

1
The Only Ones - Self-Titled (1978) 22:28

5M ago22:28

22:28

The debut album by The Only Ones, released in 1978, is a striking blend of punk rock energy and sophisticated songwriting. Led by the enigmatic Peter Perrett, the band crafted a sound that defied easy categorization, merging sharp guitar riffs, jangly melodies, and lyrical depth. The album features their most famous track, "Another Girl, Another Pl…

1
Tom Tom Club - Self-Titled (1981) 18:35

5M ago18:35

18:35

The debut album by Tom Tom Club, released in 1981, is a vibrant blend of new wave, funk, and dance music, characterized by its infectious rhythms and playful lyrics. Formed by Tina Weymouth and Chris Frantz of Talking Heads, the album showcases their ability to craft catchy, genre-blurring tunes that are both innovative and accessible. Tracks like …

1
Steve Wynn (The Dream Syndicate) 52:19

5M ago52:19

52:19

Steve Wynn is a founding member of The Dream Syndicate, a key band in the so-called Paisley Underground scene of the early 1980’s. Their debut album “The Days Of Wine And Roses” was recorded in three overnight sessions and released in 1982. It’s one of the great indie-rock touchstones and a phenomenal debut. The band had high-profile support slots …

1
Hawkwind - Space Ritual (1973) 20:37

6M ago20:37

20:37

"Space Ritual" by Hawkwind is a live album released in 1973, capturing the essence of their unique blend of space rock, psychedelia, and hard rock. The double album, recorded during their 1972 tour, is a sonic journey through interstellar themes, featuring extended jams, swirling synthesizers, heavy guitar riffs, and driving rhythms. Standout track…

1
Episode 9: The Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf 1:17:55

6M ago1:17:55

1:17:55

In conjunction with the 2024 Maritime Symposium: Exploring Our Maritime Strategies II, guests Royal Navy Commodore Adrian Fryer (Ret.) and Mr. Evan Curt join host Col. Dave Brown and co-host Jon R. Huggins to discuss security threats to shipping, particularly energy exports sailing through the Strait of Hormuz in the Persian Gulf. Listen to this ep…

1
Bob Dylan - Love and Theft (2001) 23:31

6M ago23:31

23:31

"Love and Theft," released in 2001, is Bob Dylan's thirty-first studio album and showcases his mastery of Americana, blending elements of blues, rockabilly, and folk. The album, lauded for its rich, eclectic sound and Dylan's vivid storytelling, explores themes of love, loss, and American history with a sense of wit and irony. Tracks like "Mississi…

1
Paul Carrack (Mike + The Mechanics, Squeeze, Ace) 36:37

6M ago36:37

36:37

Paul Carrack is a singer, songwriter, and musician, and he’s heading out on tour in celebration of the 50th anniversary of classic song “How Long”, a hit he had with his band Ace. Paul has had an incredibly varied career since then. He was a member of Squeeze replacing Jools Holland on keyboards, and playing on their much-loved album “East Side Sto…

1
Elton John - Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy (1975) 17:46

6M ago17:46

17:46

"Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy," released in 1975, is an autobiographical album by Elton John, chronicling the early struggles and eventual rise to fame of John (Captain Fantastic) and his lyricist Bernie Taupin (the Brown Dirt Cowboy). The album is notable for its vivid storytelling, emotional depth, and seamless blend of rock, pop, …

1
Episode 8: The Bab el-Mandeb Strait and the Red Sea 1:02:31

6M ago1:02:31

1:02:31

In conjunction with the 2024 Maritime Symposium: Exploring Our Maritime Strategies II, guests Capt. Joe Baggett, Nadwa Al-Dawsari, and Evan Curt join host Col. Dave Brown to discuss the Houthi attacks on global shipping vessels and U.S. warships in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, in the Red Sea. Listen to this episode to gain an overview of the threat to…

1
Joni Mitchell - The Hissing of Summer Lawns (1975) 24:44

6M ago24:44

24:44

"The Hissing of Summer Lawns," released in 1975, is Joni Mitchell's seventh studio album, showcasing her continued evolution as an artist. This album marks a departure from her earlier folk sound, incorporating elements of jazz, pop, and world music. It features complex arrangements and sophisticated lyrics that explore themes of suburban life, cul…

1
“The Simpsons” Special w/ Bill Oakley (Writer/Showrunner) 51:02

7M ago51:02

51:02

Bill Oakley, along with his best friend and writing partner Josh Weinstein, wrote various episodes of The Simpsons during it’s glory days including “Marge Gets A Job”, “Bart vs Australia”, and the legendary 2-part season-straddling “Who Shot Mr Burns”, and they were appointed executive producers and showrunners for the 7th and 8th seasons of the sh…

1
Grant Lee Buffalo - Fuzzy (1993) 17:43

7M ago17:43

17:43

"Fuzzy" by Grant Lee Buffalo, released in 1993, captivates with its blend of folk rock and alternative country, showcasing Grant Lee Phillips' distinctive vocals and poetic lyricism. The record resonates with introspective themes of identity, longing, and the complexities of human connection, all set against a backdrop of lush instrumentation and e…

1
Ramones - Rocket to Russia (1977) 25:40

7M ago25:40

25:40

"Rocket to Russia," the third studio album by the Ramones, released in 1977, is often hailed as one of the quintessential punk rock records. It captures the band's raw energy, infectious melodies, and irreverent attitude, delivering a high-octane mix of fast-paced tracks. The album includes some of their most iconic songs, such as "Sheena Is a Punk…

1
Episode 7: Dire Straits – Maritime Attacks in the Red Sea & the Persian Gulf 49:41

7M ago49:41

49:41

In anticipation of CIWAG’s 2024 Maritime Symposium: Exploring Our Maritime Strategies – II, scheduled for June 24-25, Guest Dr. Ian Ralby joins host Col. Dave Brown to discuss the two great maritime straits in the Middle East. The Bab el-Mandeb Strait in the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz in the Persian Gulf currently share several things; both a…

1
Buffalo Springfield - Buffalo Springfield Again (1967) 24:05

7M ago24:05

24:05

"Buffalo Springfield Again" is the second album by the American rock band Buffalo Springfield, released in 1967. A landmark in the evolution of rock music, the album showcases the band's eclectic blend of folk, rock, and psychedelia, with contributions from all five members, including Stephen Stills, Neil Young, and Richie Furay. The album features…

1
5th Anniversary Extravaganza (Dan Wilson, Astrel K, Sheila Lord, & Luke Bligh) 1:24:02

7M ago1:24:02

1:24:02

It’s been five years! Yes, it’s 5th anniversary extravaganza episode of Sending Signals! I’m delighted that Dan Wilson agreed to come back on for a catch-up. He’s one of my favourite ever guests on the show and he didn’t disappoint. We talk about his recent Grammy win, the role of embarrassment in songwriter, as well as the story behind the Semison…

1
Episode 6: Navigating Arctic Ambitions - Frozen Water & Warming Seas 1:03:18

7M ago1:03:18

1:03:18

Guests Dr. Lawson Brigham and Dr. Rebecca Pincus join host Col. Dave Brown and co-host Dr. Walter Berbrick to discuss the growing importance of the Arctic Sea as an area of economic resources, Trans-Arctic shipping routes, and a potential zone of international security concerns. This episode will touch upon items relating to the Arctic Council, Arc…

1
Burning Spear - Marcus Garvey (1975) 23:52

7M ago23:52

23:52

"Marcus Garvey" by Burning Spear, released in 1975, is a seminal reggae album that pays homage to the legendary Jamaican political leader and Pan-African activist Marcus Garvey. The album, produced by Lawrence Lindo (Jack Ruby), features the deep, soulful voice of Winston Rodney (Burning Spear) and is characterized by its powerful lyrics that speak…

1
Robbie Williams - Life Thru a Lens (1997) 19:08

8M ago19:08

19:08

"Life thru a Lens" by Robbie Williams is a captivating musical journey that showcases the artist's charismatic vocals and eclectic style. Released in 1997, this album features a mix of upbeat pop anthems like "Angels" and "Let Me Entertain You," alongside introspective tracks like "Old Before I Die" and "Lazy Days," offering listeners a dynamic ran…

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