Depeche Mode - A Guide
Since my 11:00 Music Appreciation class was canceled, I think I'll take the time to fill this block up with working on something music related. Furthermore, I will be convincing you of one thing:
DEPECHE MODE IS AMAZING.
Alright. You got that? I know many people on my f-list are Killers fans. Killers fans, you might need a few bands to replace the Killers while they're on break. I, personally, will be filling that time with Muse, Franz Ferdinand, Kings of Leon, Arctic Monkeys, and Depeche Mode. I suggest that you take on a bit of Depeche Mode too.
I've talked to quite a few people who are looking to get into Depeche Mode. The problem? They just don't know where to start. Yes, I do admit their back catalogue can be a little bit intimidating. After all, they do have twelve studio albums if I recall correctly. Which one should you pick first? Which one should you save for when you're a more advanced Depeche Mode fan? Don't fret, I'm here for you. I will guide you into the fandom. Baby steps are needed here.
As I was saying, we've got twelve albums to wade through. I'm going to narrow it down to five albums for you guys.
Some Great Reward - 1984
This is as far back in the discography as I'm taking you guys. I would say that this album is the first album where the definite Depeche Mode sound begins to show itself. Their previous three albums are more sunshiney, more poppy. This is mainly to account for the fact that former member Vince Clarke did most of the songwriting, and that was his style. Martin Gore, who took over after him, is known for his dark lyrics that are centered around lust, love, dependence, and religion. Or, that's what I'd sum up the lyrical content as. /end back story
Anyhow, let's cut to the chase on this one. This album is retro. The synths are not as polished (but they do sound positively fantastic), there's a lot of industrial clattering (see metal, chains, whipping sounds, ect), and really, it's delightfully bizarre. The classic "Master & Servant" is featured on this album, which is a total ode to S&M. They do keep it classy though. The arrangements on this track keep the dark topics that are covered from feeling too...taboo. "Blasphemous Rumours", on the other hand, is eerie and painful. If you want a song that'll rip your heart out, here's the one you need to hear. Just listen to it. I can't do it justice. So, in all, rougher sound, great danceable beats, a little bit naughty, and a little bit sweet.
Black Celebration - 1986
For now, this is my second favourite Depeche Mode album. It was my favourite for a while. I used to listen to this thing multiple times daily. That's how completely and utterly addicted I was. The dark sexuality that is Depeche Mode really blossoms on this album. We have songs about illicit romance, loneliness, death, borderline obsessive love, and well, straight out sex. As always, it doesn't get too dark. There's hope on this album. My favourite track, "But Not Tonight", savours the feeling of a perfect night alone despite the misery and debauchery of every day life. This album embraces the outsider. It heralds those with the dark streak in their life, the pessimistic, and the afraid. For the first time in my life, I felt like it was okay to be the way I am. It's okay to be cynical and dark, and it is possible to be loved for the way I am. Every track is a standout for me, but "Stripped", "Question of Lust", and "Black Celebration" are must hears.
Music For The Masses - 1987
I suppose you can say that this was the album that got Depeche Mode out into the mainstream. Some say this is the height of their mainstream career (I disagree) Funnily and fittingly enough, it's called Music For The Masses. Someone must be a psychic in the Depeche Mode camp. This album is glossy and lush. Everything is whipped into perfection. Music For The Masses the penultimate 80's synth pop experience. If you don't know where to start after reading this little guide, I'd recommend you to start here. When I try to pick a favourite song off this record, I fail. The drug anthem Never Let Me Down Again is infectious, Strangelove is equally as addictive, Behind The Wheel is ridiculously sexy, and The Things You Said is sublime.
Violator - 1990
Violator was critically acclaimed upon its release, and is still critically acclaimed to this day. Countless critics gave this album a perfect score. They were completely justified to do so. There is not a single flaw on Violator. I do admit that it took me a while before I listened to this one regularly, and I have no idea why. It might've been that I feel as if Violator is an album you just can't listen to while doing a million other things. This album demands your attention. To fully appreciate it, you need to sit down with it and really feel the songs. Of course, Enjoy The Silence, which is arguably the best and most popular hit to come out of Depeche Mode's career, is found on this album. Alongside that epic single sits the idol worship anthem (which I'm sure a lot of you can relate to) Personal Jesus and the pop perfection of Policy of Truth. Yet again, I can't pick a favourite because every song is so solid.
Songs of Faith and Devotion - 1993
Do you know how happy it makes me to know that this album was created when I was alive? This is my favourite Depeche Mode album. It's the album that got me into Depeche Mode. Out of the albums that I give you, most Depeche fans wouldn't recommend this one to you first. I really don't know why I listened to this one before the more pop-friendly albums. It might've been the title. This album looks at two kinds of love: love for a higher power and love for another person. The lines are blurred, really. You can't tell if the lyrics are praising a God or a lover, or maybe even both at the same time. That ambiguity makes Songs of Faith and Devotion so amazing. This record makes me feel invincible, and yes, it is one of the few albums that's changed my life. Anyway, moving on. If you're looking for something with a more synth rock feel opposed to straight synth pop/electronica, look no further. This album can get heavy, especially with my personal favourite, Rush, and also with I Feel You. There are some lighter, more spiritual moments. Judas and One Caress are magical. I could obviously go on all day about this album. Other highlights include In Your Room and Walking In My Shoes.
So there we are. I hope that helped. :) Just pick whatever one you think sounds best, and then go from there. I can get you guys links to all the other albums if you get through these avidly and happily. Ciao!