It wasn't until Depeche Mode finally allowed themselves an extended break after the enormously successful 'World Violation' tour that Alan could return to Recoil. However, after starting work on a 3rd album, he agreed to produce another for label mates Nitzer Ebb, who had supported the Mode on their previous two tours and had become good friends.

'Ebbhead' was recorded at Konk Studios and Alan enlisted the help of Flood who had worked on 'Violator'. It was during this time he cemented both a good personal and working relationship with lead singer Douglas McCarthy who would return the favour by singing on Recoil's next album, 'Bloodline'.