spIN Focus - Dire Straits "Brothers in Arms" presented by Greg Keal
Schedule
Thu Feb 26 2026 at 07:00 pm to 08:00 pm
UTC-06:00Location
3510 W. 95th Street, Leawood, KS, United States, Kansas 66206 | Prairie Village, KS
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spIN Focus: The Digital Dawn of Dire Straits – Brothers in ArmsIn May 1985, Dire Straits released an album that would do more than just top the charts; it would fundamentally change how the world consumed music. For this spIN Focus Greg Keal presents a technical and cultural retrospective on Brothers in Arms, the record that transformed the Compact Disc from a futuristic novelty into a global standard.
The Catalyst for a Revolution
While Brothers in Arms is remembered for its infectious hooks and Mark Knopfler’s signature guitar tone, its true legacy lies in its role as a digital pioneer.
The First Million-Seller: It was the first album in history to sell over one million copies on CD. In an era when vinyl and cassettes still reigned supreme, Brothers in Arms became the "killer app" for the fledgling CD format, with many listeners famously purchasing the disc before they even owned a player.
DDD Precision: As one of the first major rock albums to be recorded, mixed, and mastered fully digitally (earning the rare DDD SPARS code), it offered a level of silence and dynamic range that was previously unattainable. The lack of tape hiss and the pristine clarity of the production made it the ultimate "demo disc" for high-end stereo equipment.
Format-Specific Edits: Interestingly, the original vinyl release was actually shorter than the CD version. To maintain audio quality on a single LP, several tracks—including "Money for Nothing" and "Your Latest Trick"—were edited down, making the full-length CD versions a rare and coveted experience for fans at the time.
About the Presenter: Greg Keal
This episode is hosted by Greg Keal, a lifelong music enthusiast and dedicated record collector. Greg’s perspective is shaped by years of "crate digging" and a deep appreciation for the physical evolution of music media.
As a collector, Greg approaches Brothers in Arms not just as a hit record, but as a historical artifact. Every record is a time capsule, tonight, we unpack the one that opened the door to the digital future we live in today.
Doors open at 6:30pm, the show starts at 7. Your $10 Donation supports Center For Recorded Music 501(c)(3) and includes admission, complimentary snacks and beverages including soft drinks, flavored waters, and 1 complimentary adult beverage from a great selection of beer, wine, mixed drinks, and NA options.
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Where is it happening?
3510 W. 95th Street, Leawood, KS, United States, Kansas 66206, 3510 W 95th St, Leawood, KS 66206-2033, United States, Prairie VillageEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
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