![]() ![]() ![]() So here are the 18 tracks which act as ELECTRICITYCLUB.CO.UK’s own Beginner’s Guide To DEPECHE MODE in the 21st Century.ĭream On – Dave Clarke Acoustic Version (2001) It must be pointed out that this listing is NOT intended for Devotees, but aimed those former fans of DEPECHE MODE disillusioned by Dave Gahan’s drug fuelled stage diving antics who bowed out after ‘Songs Of Faith & Devotion’ or those hanging on for the possibility of a good record using synthesizers rather than a collection of pastiche electro-blues. Tellingly, many of the best DM moments in this new millennium are remixes, instrumentals, bonus tracks or songs sung by Martin Gore. So which are those moments that veer closest to the glory of albums such as ‘Black Celebration’, ‘Music For The Masses’ and ‘Violator’ that see Messrs Fletcher, Gahan and Gore properly exploring the electronic sound with which they made their fortune? And it is that intermittent quality which is the most frustrating aspect of DEPECHE MODE in the 21st Century.īut this article is not about the absence of Alan Wilder or the much-debated choice of producers, it’s about when the DEPECHE MODE brand has got it right, whether with the full involvement of the band’s members or not. However, their recorded output in the 21st Century and their attitude towards their live presentation leaves a lot to be desired.ĭespite ELECTRICITYCLUB.CO.UK’s criticism of DEPECHE MODE as a live band with the excesses of The Drumhead and The Noodler, they are still capable of occasional brilliance as an artistic force. While it doesn't shy away from recalling his past demons, Paper Monsters ultimately points toward his optimism for the future.Nearly 30 years since the Concert For The Masses at Pasadena Rose Bowl, DEPECHE MODE continue to fill stadia throughout the world. Paper Monsters is a competent solo debut, and although it doesn't stray too far from the Depeche mold, Gahan does manage to put his own stamp on the songs. They, along with producer Ken Thomas (Sigur Rós), began shaping Gahan's ideas into a mix of swampy blues-injected rock, slick urban electronica, and atmospheric balladry. Initially shy and even a bit scared, it wasn't until he began jamming with friend and multi-instrumentalist Knox Chandler that he gained the confidence he needed to get serious about releasing an album of his own material. ![]() ![]() Additionally, "Hidden Houses" offers his most naked moment on the album: "Inside each man is a frightened lamb who hides beneath the sheets/Waiting for a chance to just be free." Having toyed with the idea of releasing a solo album ever since Depeche Mode released Exciter, Gahan approached the project slowly. On "I Need You" and "Hidden Houses," Gahan sounds as though he could be addressing all of his subjects at once. "Hold On" and "A Little Piece" each offer a glimpse into Gahan's reconciliations with a higher power, while "Bitter Apple," "Black and Blue Again," and "Goodbye" shed light on his relationships, both bad and good. As the titles suggest, "Dirty Sticky Floors" and "Bottle Living" are glam-induced snapshots of Gahan's days spent at rock-bottom. While the lyrics on Paper Monsters lack some of the depth and clever irony associated with those of bandmate Martin Gore, Gahan masters innuendo, often hiding the true identities of his subjects. Following Gahan's journey through both physical and mental rehabilitation, Paper Monsters is what many would expect - a collection of material culled from his addictions, failed relationships, and spiritual rebirth. As his addictions worsened, Gahan lost his friends, lost himself, and for a few short minutes, lost his life before paramedics revived him after an all-night drug binge. When Depeche Mode regrouped to record Songs of Faith & Devotion, Gahan had transformed himself into the perennial junkie. By the early '90s, however, Gahan had moved to L.A., gotten hooked on heroin and booze, and immersed himself in the grunge scene. Although the group often flirted with gloomy overtones throughout their career, they maintained a largely squeaky-clean image. As the lead vocalist for Depeche Mode, Dave Gahan appeared to be far removed from the common trappings of rock & roll stardom. ![]()
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