Fred,

A strong, interesting write. Reminded me of early Springsteen - "Greetings From Asbury Park" feel... tightly woven imagery.

The Dire fills work for this - though at times I find them distracting because they are so distinctively Knopfler - but...they work here as well as anything I've heard them used in. I also thought a different drum choice would suit the lyric - I would guess that is the Nashville Even8 - always a good choice - but I thought a "looser" drum track might be better - maybe one of the RockBlues drums. Just opinions, of course. This is well done, as is. Good mix.

Enjoyed it. Looking forward to the home stretch - I have enjoyed your journey so far...

fj