Dire Straits

In June 1981, when Dire Straits graced the Palais des Sports in Paris, they were riding high on the success of their iconic album *Making Movies*, released just a year prior in 1980. This album, which featured hits like "Romeo and Juliet," showcased their growing prowess and commercial appeal, propelling them into the limelight. By the time of this concert, the band was also beginning to refine their sound, blending rock with elements of jazz and folk—a signature that would become synonymous with their identity. The live performance is significant not only for its energy but also for the setlist, which includes classics such as "Sultans of Swing" and "Down to the Waterline." Interestingly, this particular concert appears to be a treasure trove of unreleased footage, giving fans a delightful glimpse into a transformative period in Dire Straits’ career, before they fully broke into superstardom with *Love Over Gold* the following year. What a thrilling time it must have been, witnessing the rise of one of rock's most distinctive bands!

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