John Illsley has been called ‘the engine room’ of Dire Straits. It’s an apt description. This is the man who drove the songs, the pace and the beats, a co-founder of the band who went the distance. And whilst he wasn’t necessarily in the limelight, his contribution to the sound and feel of the band and music is undeniable.

On May 24th John released his first studio album proper since Dire Straits disbanded in 1995. And his talent and heritage simply shine through.

Streets Of Heaven is a collection of beautifully crafted songs that will surprise those that thought DS was a one man band and delight those who come new to John Illsley.

11 tracks in all, the new album was recorded in London at British Grove and is produced by Guy Fletcher together with John. It features a terrific musical line-up, an Irish rhythym section, a couple of mates from the old days and a certain Mark Knopfler guesting on two of the tracks. From the exquisite ballad, Only Time Will Tell, to the countryish Young Girl and the poignant I Thought I Saw It Coming, Streets Of Heaven is a very personal album that deals with family, friends and personal events.

And we want you to have a copy. Because this week we have got four copies of Streets of Heaven to give away.