Diabolical Masquerade was the solo-project created by Katatonia's Anders 'Blakkheim' Nyström in 1996, to let off more creative steam away from the gothic/doom metal styling of Katatonia. Diabolical Masquerade released 4 albums in total, before Blakkheim laid the project to rest in 2004. Nightwork was the third album by Diabolical Masquerade. It was recorded at The Sanctuary in April 1998 and saw a release later that year. The album was produced by Dan Swanö (Opeth, Katatonia) and Blakkheim. Although a solo-project, Blakkheim enlisted the help of Dan Swanö to perform the drums, as well as contributing with some keyboards and backing vocals. Diabolical Masquerade was based primarily around symphonic/melodic black metal; creating eerie atmospheres through keyboards and utilizing more high energy and technical compositions than those of his main band, with complex patterns of riffs and hooks. This particular album saw a greater integration of synths than previously, to convey a strong horror theme. To further expand this atmosphere, cello and flute were also incorporated.