Dire Straits

Communiqué

First released1979

Communiqué, Dire Straits' second album, was recorded in 1978 at the Record Plant in Los Angeles and Capitol Studios, following the massive success of their debut. The album was produced by the band themselves along with Jerry Wexler and Barry Betterment, with engineer Nigel Molander overseeing much of the technical work. The recording sessions built upon the sophisticated production approach established on the first album, featuring Mark Knopfler's distinctive guitar work and the band's tightened musicianship after extensive touring. The album was released in June 1979 and continued the band's commercial and critical success, featuring the hit single "Lady Writer" and showcasing a more polished, refined sound compared to their debut while maintaining their signature roots rock and blues influences.