Parallel Tracks [CD]

Exactly three decades after they topped the singles chart with Amazing Grace, the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards have decided to make their second imprint in pop history. And in doing so, they've enlisted the aid of a new recruit one who can handle a Stratocaster with military precision. Yes, Mark Knopfler's no longer in Dire Straits, he's transferred to Edinburgh's finest. 'Parallel Tracks' sees the Sultan of Swing appropriately guesting on Going Home, his theme from the Scots-filmed movie 'Local Hero'. But elsewhere you'll find the Guards have taken up guitars, digital drums and all the modern musician's armoury to add a contemporary feel to the sound which in many places is nearer Knopfler than you'd imagine. The bagpipes are used to add an ethnic feel to tracks like the Gael, rather than as Irish music uses uillean pipes. 'Amazing Grace makes a reappearance in a Millenium Mix but elsewhere it's surprisingly varied fare, a female vocal-assisted take on the traditional She Moves Through the Fair the most affecting. The CD also contains specially commissioned artwork on a multiple page booklet produced with the collaboration of Mark Knoplfer and the Regiment. This includes details of the circumstances which led to each of the albums songs and a heartfelt message from the former Regiment Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel David Allfrey.