The Ragpicker's Dream is another fine recording from former Dire Straits leader, Mark Knophler. This CD takes on a more acoustic format so if you like the electric/Dire Straits sound you may be shocked and a bit dissappointed.There are several captivating melodies. The swing flavored Quality Shoe is a nice toe tapping tune. The title track has a nice homey feel to it with a little holiday sentiment in the air. A Place Where We Used To Live and Fare Thee Well Northumberland feature some nice interplay between the guitars and the piano. Love the folky feel of the later one.Its good to see musicians step out and grow. Mark Knophler is certainly adding new elements to his repetoire and this makes The Ragpicker's Dream a charming CD.