Mark Knopfler – Local Hero

Mark Knopfler – Local Hero

A beautifully atmospheric soundtrack from Mark Knopfler, Local Hero marked his first major project outside of Dire Straits and remains one of the most beloved instrumental albums of his career. Written for the acclaimed 1983 film Local Hero, the soundtrack captures the landscapes, humour and quiet charm of a small Scottish coastal community through evocative melodies and masterful guitar work.

Blending folk, Celtic influences, rock and cinematic composition, the album creates a vivid sense of place. Knopfler’s distinctive guitar tone runs throughout the record, supported by gentle arrangements that range from reflective and atmospheric to uplifting and celebratory.

Highlights include the haunting Wild Theme, the traditional influences of The Ceilidh And The Northern Lights and the iconic closing piece Going Home (Theme Of The Local Hero), a composition that has become one of Knopfler’s signature works and a favourite among guitar enthusiasts worldwide.

Rich in atmosphere and emotion, Local Hero stands as both a memorable film soundtrack and a rewarding listening experience in its own right.

Tracklist

1. The Rocks & The Water – 3:30
2. Wild Theme – 3:40
3. Freeway Flyer – 1:50
4. Boomtown (Variation Louis' Favourite) – 4:10
5. The Way It Always Starts – 4:08
6. The Rocks And The Thunder – 0:40
7. The Ceilidh And The Northern Lights – 4:07
8. The Mist Covered Mountains – 5:13
9. The Ceilidh: Louis Favourite / Billy's Tune – 3:42
10. Whistle Theme – 0:53
11. Smooching – 5:05
12. Stargazer – 1:31
13. The Rocks And The Thunder – 0:40
14. Going Home: Theme Of The Local Hero – 5:01