Making Movies marks a magnificent turning point in Dire Straits’ career. Considered by many fans to be the group’s most complete album, the 1980 set witnesses leader Mark Knopfler expanding his songwriting palette and setting his storytelling amidst more complex arrangements. Dire Straits also benefits from crucial contributions from Bruce Springsteen pianist Roy Bittan. Songs spark with an engaging blend of poetry, passion, and cohesion that begs to be experienced again and again. Expansive and cinematic, the aptly titled Making Movies puts a premium on interrelated subjects (love, relationships, heartbreak) and deep-seated emotions that play out in heartfelt lyrics, intense singing, and epic frameworks.

Mastered from the original master tapes, Mobile Fidelity’s 180g 45RPM 2LP set and hybrid SACD breathe with reference-caliber airiness, spaciousness, dynamics, and separation. Produced by Jimmy Iovine and Knopfler, the record—which contains many Springsteen-esque elements—features the cleanliness and clarity that have long been Dire Straits trademarks. You know you’re in the presence of sonic greatness as soon as the first few seconds of the opening “Tunnel of Love” pass. The introductory passage, built on organ and piano, intertwines with the unmistakable coilspring twang of Knopfler’s guitar. There’s not a note out of place. Jimmy Iovine and Knopfler’s standout production—in concert with meticulous remastering—puts it over the top.