He's back.

Same band.

Same producer.

Much better sound.

He can be forgiven for a weak opening song, which features his Jordie brothers Jimmy Nail and Tim Healy on back up vocals.

Even if it is the theme song to popular tv sequel Aud Weidersen Pet, it seems out of place with its more down to earth, real life fellow songs.

The other 11 songs are stronger lyrically, much more sophisticated instrumentally and much more Knopfler

Song lyrics range from old southern in Quality Shoe, to working man blues in The Ragpicker's Dream.

The styles range from country and western, to folk to true blues.

But while he may have been sailing and laid back in his previous album, this time Knopfler has really gotten down to the business of guitar playing and melting instruments together into the magic style which is his alone.

Each song has a slightly different mix, using the variety of instruments to strengthen each song's unique personality.

This is what gives Knopfler the producer his respect in the industry and Knopfler the song writer the dedication of his fans.

And if his last concert tour is setting the stage for album to performance standards, this tour promises to be brilliant.

Catch him on tour and visit www.mark-knopfler.com or www.mark-knopfler-news.co.uk for more information.

Released in September by Mercury Records.