Burning The Ground Exclusive
NEW 2025 Transfer
NEW Meticulous Audio Restoration
Original post date: July 22, 2013
Today’s Pride Month post dives deep into one of Depeche Mode’s most seductive and emotionally tangled singles: “Strangelove.” Originally released in 1987 as the lead single from Music for the Masses, it marked a sonic and thematic shift for the band—moody, magnetic, and rich with contradiction.
“Strangelove” is all about duality—desire vs. guilt, pleasure as pain, salvation wrapped in sin. And for anyone who’s ever loved in secret, or wrestled with their identity in the shadows, lines like “I give in to sin because I like to practice what I preach” hit like a thunderclap. At a time when queer love was often hidden or coded, Depeche Mode gave us a space to feel seen, without ever having to say it outright.
For today’s post, I’m spinning the 1988 U.S. 12″ of “Strangelove”—a stateside-exclusive remix known as the Highjack Remix, remixed by Bomb the Bass. It’s a version that takes the original’s dark sensuality and launches it into overdrive: thumping bass, fractured samples, and a jacked-up energy that’s ready for the club floor and the mirrorball of your mind.
The B-side features a standout too—“Nothing (Zip-Hop Mix)”—remixed by the legendary Justin Strauss. Sleek, rhythmic, and full of low-end bounce, it’s one of those understated Depeche tracks that quietly demands your attention.
This 12″ remains a fan favorite and club essential. It peaked at #50 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #24 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart in 1988, but more importantly—it struck a deep chord. It became an anthem not just for synth lovers, but for anyone navigating the gray zones of desire, shame, and self-discovery.
For Pride Month, “Strangelove” stands as a reminder that identity and emotion are rarely simple—and that’s where their power lies. Depeche Mode has long held a special place in LGBTQ+ hearts, offering music that embraces complexity, intensity, and unflinching honesty.
SIDE A:
Strangelove (Highjack Remix) 6:31
Remix – Bomb The Bass
Strangelove (Remix Edit) 3:50
Remix – Bomb The Bass
SIDE B:
Nothing (Zip-Hop Mix) 7:03
Edited By – Chep Nunez*
Engineer [Remix] – Hugo Dwyer
Programmed By [Additional] – Eric Kupper
Remix, Producer [Additional] – Justin Strauss
Nothing (Dub) 6:38
Edited By – Chep Nunez*
Engineer [Remix] – Hugo Dwyer
Programmed By [Additional] – Eric Kupper
Remix, Producer [Additional] – Justin Strauss
VINYL GRADE:
Vinyl: Near Mint
Sleeve: Near Mint
U.S. CHART HISTORY:
| Year | Single | Chart | Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1988 | Strangelove (1988) | U.S. Billboard Hot 100 | #50 |
| 1988 | Strangelove (1988) | U.S. Billboard Hot Dance/Club Play | #24 |
RELEASE INFORMATION:
Label: Sire – 0-21022, Sire – 9 21022-0, Mute – 0-21022, Mute – 9 21022-0
Format: Vinyl, 12″, 33 ⅓ RPM, Maxi-Single
Country: US
Released: Aug 23, 1988
Genre: Electronic
Style: Synth-pop
CREDITS:
- Design, Photography – T&CP Assoc.*
- Producer – David Bascomb*, Depeche Mode
- Written-By – M.L. Gore*
NOTES:
Also known as Strangelove ’88.
The mix of track B1 is also known as “Justin Strauss Mix”
Buy the 12″ at DISCOGS
VINYL TRANSFER & AUDIO RESTORATION:
-DjPaulT
for burningtheground.net
THE GEAR:
Turntable: Technics SL-1200MK7
Cartridge/Stylus: Ortofon Concorde Music Black
Turntable Isolation Platform: ISO-Tone™ Turntable Isolation Platform
Platter: Pro Spin Acrylic Mat
Stabilizer: Pro-Ject Record Puck
Phono Pre-amp: Pro-Jec Tube Box DS2
Tubes: Genalex Gold Lion 12AX7 ECC83/B759 Gold Pins Vacuum Tube – Matched Pair
DAC: Alpha Design Labs GT40a USB DAC
Record Cleaning: VPI HW 16.5 Record Cleaning Machine
Artwork Scans: Epson Workforce WF-7610 Professional Printer/Scanner
SOFTWARE:
Recording/Editing: Adobe Audition 25 (Recording)
Down Sampling/Dither: iZotope RX Advanced 2
Artwork Editor: Adobe Photoshop CS5
Click Removal: Manual
FLAC/MP3 Conversion: dBpoweramp
M3U Playlist: Playlist Creator
RESTORATION NOTES:
All vinyl rips are recorded @ 32bit/float
FLAC (Level Eight)
Artwork scanned at 600dpi
**24bit FLAC Only Available For Seven Days!
Password: burningtheground
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Thk U a lot Paul
Thank you! I do love Strangelove and this mix. The original 7″ still gives me chills, but this one makes me want to wiggle. Another fantastic addition for this month.
I like these remixes of Strangelove. I still have your 2017 rip of the other issue you posted that still sounds good. The B side is a new track for me, but excellent mixes by JS.
The Hijack Remix sounds good with Eighth Wonder – I’m Not Scared (Little Louie Vega Mix)
Cheers Paul.
Cheers, Mark. I will have to pair it with ‘I’m Not Scared ‘- sounds very cool.
Hello Paul. Greetings from Ecuador, halfway across the world. I admire your hard work and dedication. I’ve been noticing for a few maxis now that when a track starts, it has a minimal sound. For example, in this case, the track “Nothing Zip Hop Mix” has it, but the others don’t. Let’s see if you can take this into account and fix it. I hope you take it in the best way; it’s just a little advice for future recordings. I respect and value your GREAT WORK. I hope one day my requests, which I placed on IG, will be… Read more »
Hi Nacho, thank you for your feedback, but I’m confused and don’t fully understand what you mean. Can you explain a little more? I have forgotten what your requests were. Could you refresh my memory? Thanks
Hi Paul. Of course. I’m referring to the track “Nothing Zip Hop Mix,” where the track starts, where there’s a tiny sound similar to when you press a button to start listening to something or start a recording. It’s very imperceptible, but we audiophiles notice it. My apologies for that. And you can also hear it in other releases from recent vinyl releases. I’m completely confident in the high quality of your audio, and that makes me wonder why it’s noticeable; that’s all it is. As for everything else, I take my hat off to you; you’re very professional, and… Read more »
Wow what a great single Paul! I had no idea what I’d been missing. With a few exceptions, my real exposure to Depeche Mode was with the Violator albums and singles. Now I see what all the hubbub was about, Lol! This is a terrific single and so happy you’re putting it in the spotlight for Pride month. Thank you as always for being our tour guide on this musical journey!
Thank you, Retro Hound! I’m so glad this one hit the mark for you! Strangelove really is one of those singles that shows just how ahead of their time Depeche Mode was—sonically daring, emotionally layered, and totally magnetic. It’s easy to get swept up in Violator (rightfully so!), but diving back into Music for the Masses and singles like this reveals just how deep the band’s catalog runs. It means a lot that you’re enjoying the Pride Month spotlight selections—there’s something so powerful about reconnecting with these tracks through a fresh lens. Thanks, as always, for coming along on this… Read more »
Much appreciated Paul!!
You’re very welcome! Always happy to share the music and the memories—thanks for being part of the journey! 🌈🎶
THANK YOU!!! I’m so glad you are deciding to re-transfer Depeche Mode. I’m pretty sure I have just about every Depeche Remix in just about every incarnation, as I started collecting their 12″ records early on, but to finally have this 12″ in your meticulous quality really makes my day!!! I can’t wait to hear how much better your transfer sounds!!!
Hopefully you will revisit some more DM in the future, like the other Remix vinyl of Strangelove with the Pain Mix and the Blind Mix … and Never Let Me Down (Split Mix of course.
Thank you so much!! I’m thrilled to hear how excited you are about the re-transfer—it really means a lot. Depeche Mode’s catalog is so rich and layered, and I absolutely plan on revisiting more of their 12″ singles in the future. The Pain Mix, Blind Mix, and of course the Split Mix of Never Let Me Down Again are all on my radar. It’s a joy to bring these classics back to life in the best quality possible. Stay tuned—more Mode is definitely coming! 🎛️🖤
AWESOME! Your transfer of this vinyl is definitely way better than the “remastered” digital versions from the box set!
I have to tell you that I’ve compared your transfer of this vinyl with ALL versions I have and yours bit them by a mile! Thank you again!
I meant to say: … beat them by a mile! 🙂
a gentle nudge to motivate you to include these 2 vinyls in your future uploads 🙂
🙂
Great transfer as usual. Really a great system. Never enough Mode.
Thank you so much! I’m really glad you enjoyed the transfer—Depeche Mode always deserves the best treatment, and I couldn’t agree more: there’s truly never enough Mode. Appreciate you being along for the ride! 🖤
Depeche get the funk going with this one. Ever notice the similarity to “Word Up” by Cameo? Funny thing is the Music video for “Word Up” starts with a guy talking into a megaphone… very cheeky. As a major Depeche fan, I consider this song as my introduction to Depeche Mode, as nothing previous penetrated the airwaves like this one, which had a crossover into the world of freestyle and r&b and top 40 that I was mostly aware of at the time, this one blended right in. Depeche mode weren’t afraid of being provocative, exploring themes others were afraid… Read more »
Joey, what a fantastic observation! I totally hear the “Word Up” vibe now that you mention it—those chunky synths and that strut-worthy groove really do connect the dots. I love that Depeche Mode managed to bridge worlds with “Strangelove,” pulling in fans from across genres. It’s part of what made them so special—unafraid to be dark, bold, and sensual in a way pop rarely dared to be. I also appreciate the shout-out about how elusive that ’88 mix was! It really was one of those “you had to dig for it” tracks, and now hearing it in proper quality makes… Read more »
I never heard the Highjack Remix before. So thanks for this vinyl rip, Paul! In comparison I still prefer the Maxi Mix, after all I bought the 12″ when it first came out. Back then Depeche Mode records were released in Germany on Intercord and they where often available in coloured vinyl, sometimes a simple colour, sometimes marbled. I have 2 rather obscure suggestions fitting for this month: “Danny Boy And The Serious Party Gods” with “Castro Boy” ( https://www.discogs.com/master/113487-Danny-Boy-And-The-Serious-Party-Gods-Castro-Boy ). It doesn’t get more gay than this one. The second 12″ is Elite with “Poppers”, which was released a… Read more »
You’re very welcome! I’m so glad you got to hear the Highjack Remix—it definitely has a different energy compared to the Maxi Mix. Totally understand your preference though—there’s something extra special about that original 12″ you picked up back in the day. Those Intercord pressings from Germany were so cool, especially with the colored and marbled vinyl… real collector’s gems! Thanks for sharing your memory—love hearing about those personal vinyl moments!
I will check out the two titles you mentioned; they sound interesting.
My favorite DM song, though I personally prefer the original Maxi Mix that came out first. The homoerotic energy became even more pronounced in the follow up single Never Let Me Down Again, especially in the dramatic 9:30+ minute Split Mix. These two songs, the album, and the tour that followed really propelled DM out of cult status. Thanks for including this one in your pride month series Paul!
One can only surmise that Martin L. Gore intentionally made the lyrics sound homoerotic, as you pointed out, but the song is in fact about drugs. Specifically, his “best friend” in “Never Let Me Down Again” describes his ups and downs with drugs. And the Split Mix is definitely Depeche’s Master Piece!
Absolutely, River! “Strangelove” is such a landmark track, and I totally get your love for the original Maxi Mix—there’s a rawness and elegance to it that’s unforgettable. And yes, the shift into “Never Let Me Down Again” took things to another level entirely. The Split Mix is a masterpiece—dark, cinematic, and dripping with that unmistakable intensity. You’re so right that this era was a turning point for Depeche Mode, pushing them firmly into the global spotlight. I’m thrilled to include it in the Pride Month series—it’s a perfect blend of vulnerability, edge, and identity. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Depeche Mode should have never stopped making their own remixes! The “Split Mix” came about with direct involvement from the band. Years later, after remixes began being made by various hired producers, Wilder said the group should have continued making their own remixes – “…we were right the first time.” I agree wholeheartedly. DM songs are already perfect, but their remixes is what really made them stand out in the early days!
Depeche Mode resonates with me so much, Paul. This particular song is a standout in their discography. I loved its lyrics and excellent production. Martin Gore can really write some special songs with great melodies. Thank you, Paul, for pointing out how this tune has relevance to the LGBTQIA+ community. It really is a great anthem! I love the line, “Strange highs and Strange lows.” I’ve felt these many times in navigating who I am, and what I do, what I have done, and even in my continued choices. Such is my life. Great remix by Bomb The Bass on… Read more »
Thank you, Jeff! Your reflections are beautiful and speak so deeply to what makes Strangelove such a powerful and lasting song. That line—“Strange highs and strange lows”—absolutely captures the emotional journey so many of us know too well. Depeche Mode, and Martin Gore in particular, have such a gift for articulating those hidden corners of the soul—desire, doubt, vulnerability—all wrapped in haunting melodies and brilliant production. I’m really glad this mix resonated with you. Bomb the Bass truly elevated the intensity, and yes, that Nothing remix by Justin Strauss and Chep Nunez is criminally underrated. Both tracks together feel like… Read more »
Welcome back my man! I hope you had a great time last week… But always nice to see you back here too!
Thank you so much, Retro Hound. I saw your comment asking about me, and that was so nice of you. I did have a great time last week (thanks for asking) but it’s great to be back here with all of you music fanatics! Paul has certainly created one special place here. A port in the storm, a sanctuary, if you will. And all the phenomenal people who visit here, like yourself, Retro Hound!!
Have a wonderful night, pal!!
Jeff
Great catch ! Never heard before even if my collection is … “extensive”.
Tx !
You’re welcome.
Hi Paul! Thanks for the nice rip! Some legendary names all over this 12″!!! Does anyone know if the Highjack Remix is available on cd other than these 3: Strangelove cd promo, The Remixes 86>98promo, and UK Remixes Of Everything Counts, Nothing And Strangelove mini disc? If you know of it, please post the Discogs link(s) here. Thanks again, Paul!!
Easiest is here: https://www.discogs.com/master/340345-Depeche-Mode-Remixes-2-81-11
You’re welcome, Fred. I am not aware of any other releases on CD.
I gave the easily accessible link, but it is also included in the Japanese X1 box set which is long out of print but available used — you might want to check that out because it hosts a few other very rare mixes as well. https://www.discogs.com/master/227928-Depeche-Mode-X%C2%B9