"WTF?" I hear you say.
But I was thinking the other day that (despite being at complete opposite ends of the musicial spectrum) there's a few similarities between the bands. And before I start, I realise that dire straits wound up a long time ago.
- the album covers of both don't show the band (except lowlife)
- the songs of both bands tend to be long with big endings
- both bands have had different line ups but the lead singer is the main constant (although the bass player of dire straits and Steve are too)
- the lead singer of both bands are a bit controlling as well as being the main songwriters of their respective bands
- both bands guitarists have their own unique styles of playing that are recognisable
- both bands have singers for which singing isn't their strongest point (or could ever be classed as great singers)
- both Mark Knoffler and Bernard are working class guys who never lost touch with their roots
- both bands had their biggest success with their respective 5th albums
- both bands subsequent 6th album releases weren't as good as their 5th and the bands called it a day (or in new orders case went on hiatus for a good few years)
- erm....they both sang songs about love and money and war
Ok, so it's been a slow day and I know this is all a bit tenuous and that I should get out more, etc. But I thought it might amuse. If anyone has a better suggestion for a band that has more in common with new order, feel free to say.
