Depeche Mode’s fifth album “Black Celebration” was recorded between November 1985–January 1986 and released on March 17, 1986. With Daniel Miller and Gareth Jones joining the band in Westside and Genetic (London) Hansa  Studios to create a 41 minute, timeless masterpiece. There are themes of death, despair, love, lust, and hope that run through the album. The tracks offer a sophisticated and atmospheric soundscape that projects the power in these emotions. By this time the band had mastered sampling and blending organic and synthetic sounds into seamless, cohesive songs. The range and depth of the vocals were extraordinary with complex harmonies throughout. Dave and Martin split vocal duties to utilize their unique voices as suited for each song – providing even more dynamics to the album.

Many fans consider Black Celebration to be Depeche Mode’s opus magnum, offering both great individual songs as well as a cohesive album from beginning to the end.

Brian’s album photograph of “City of the Dark” perfectly fits the mood of the album – a clean, polished, modern structure rising behind a bed of tulips.