Mark Knopfler is wrapping up work on his third solo album, which he's planning to release in late September. The follow-up to 2000's highly praised Sailing to Philadelphia was recorded in Nashville with producer Chuck Ainlay during parts of January and April.

The as-yet-untitled record -- currently in post-production in London -- will feature guest vocals by Emmylou Harris. "[Knopfler's and Harris'] voices blend particularly well," posts keyboardist Guy Fletcher, "and the album will be a real treat."

The album also features bluegrass fiddler Glen Duncan, steel guitarist Paul Franklin and Philadelphia holdovers like guitarist Richard Bennett, drummer Chad Cromwell, pianist Jim Cox and bassist Glenn Work.

Knopfler is planning a world tour in support of the album for spring 2003. In the meantime, Mark Knopfler and Friends -- which includes guitarist Robbie McIntosh (Paul McCartney, the Pretenders) and former Dire Straits bassist John Illsley -- will play four upcoming U.K. charity concerts to benefit Save the Baby, Teenage Cancer Trust, Leuka 2000 and the Countryside Education Trust.

JOHN D. LUERSSEN
(June 21, 2002)