Let me take you on a trip around the world and back…
In the early days of the internet, I once saw this iconic 1990 album described by a music critic as “Trancey. Dancey. And loose in your pantsy.”
There is something really mystical about the vibe of this album and all of the dark, power overtones and good and evil portrayals – in all of the Depeche Mode catalog – but this album is pure high art.
A masterpiece!
My future band mate and friend Ron West adored them. I interviewed them and we met them at Merriweather Post Pavilion one night. That was 30 years ago! I found the autographed backstage passes that I forgot I even had. I wish I remembered more about that night because it was the only time I ever saw them live. I’d like to change that…
My dearly departed childhood friend Doug Bennett (who I write about often during these #WistfulNes journeys) played a key role in bringing this and The Cure, Echo And The Bunnymen and lots of mid-1980s mope rock music into my life as a one-time roommate and #MusicalNes foil.
I was never really an electronic music fan, per se – and as my 32 albums in 32 days will attest – but always dug the Pet Shop Boys and various British MTV bands, plus a massive crush on most everything New Order ever did opened the door for Depeche Mode to become a blissfully guilty pleasure for a “real” rock guy from Dundalk.
I loved the “Just Can’t Get Enough” new wave sound. “Music For The Masses” was a favorite. “Strangelove” and “People Are People” are two great songs that have stood the test of time on any dance floor.
So why can’t it be that my crimes are so unforgivable when it comes to such a mad devotion to “Violator” all these years later?
Pick up the receiver, I’ll make you a believer.
The deep drone and powerful howl of Dave Gahan and a symphony of trippy grooves and great lyrics. Along with Martin Gore, Alan Wilder and Andy Fletcher, Depeche Mode made beautiful music together.
“Halo” is one of my favorite songs.
“World In My Eyes” is one of the best opening songs on any album I own.
Sure, “Personal Jesus” and “Enjoy The Silence” were the hits on this sinister masterpiece – and are probably why you’ve heard of Mode to begin with – but let me take you on a trip, around the world and back with this epic gem that every girl at the beach loved in the Summer of 1990.
I was 21. Therefore, I loved it, too!
Words are very unnecessary. They can only do harm.
All I ever wanted, all I ever needed was here.
Never again is what you swore the time before.
Reach out and touch faith…
