Depeche Mode Talk

Favorite Depeche Mode Album?

I think that if I ever had to choose my favorite Depeche Mode album, it would be tied between Violator or Songs Of Faith And Devotion. I have always thought that both of these albums were unique and controversial in their own way -- or moreover, that these albums had a unique way of challenging the listener to think about what was really being said within the music. Even when you watch the music videos that were associated with the songs from these albums, the music videos don't overpower the actual message of the music, which is important.

These are the two albums that always standalone in my mind when I think about Depeche Mode, because the music was very definitive for them as a group. Some of their noteworthy singles were found on both of these albums, but it isn't just that fact that makes me say that the music was definitive. The overall sound of the music has that very familiar, unforgettable signature style that Depeche Mode could only create.

Whether it was the songwriting, the vocals, or the band itself, these were albums where I think it really showcased their overall talent as a band. Violator's songs had the style that made it feel like Depeche Mode had evolved far beyond the point of what was even imaginable for them when you listen to the first few releases, whereas Songs Of Faith And Devotion had more of the feeling of the actual process of Depeche Mode evolving and transcending in music within the 90s. These are albums where you literally cannot skip a song because each song adds to the overall experience of the album -- true unforgettable classics.

Check Out Bendy Bass!

New Song From VCMG

A while back ago, I made an entry talking about the new side project from Depeche Mode members Martin Gore and Vince Clarke and included a link to where you could hear one of their songs. Well, VCMG have released yet another enjoyable song that is just waiting to be listened to by Depeche Mode fans and Erasure fans alike. If you have not yet heard the first song, Spock, or if you are just curious about this new addition, consider checking out Bendy Bass.

Ironically, this song sounds exactly like the title seems to indicate it would. I think it's the perfect song for a Friday night or any time when you plan on being out and about with your friends. Now, there are starting to be some mixed reviews about VCMG overall. There are many fans who are enjoying the music and say that it is very reminiscent of quintessential Depeche Mode. Other people note that it's just different - and that's why they like it.

However, there are a few people who seem to say that it doesn't sound like Depeche Mode enough for it to merit interest. I've never quite understood the associated logic with that particular statement; after all, it's a side music project, therefore it's not going to sound like Depeche Mode, just like it's not going to sound like Erasure either. The idea of creating a side project is that you can explore different musical ideas and express yourself differently than you would with your primary band.

Thoughts On Vocals

Throughout the years, Depeche Mode have released numerous hit songs and unforgettable albums. At times, they have even worked on solo projects that showcased all of their different and unique skills as musicians. Martin and Dave are usually the most prominently recognized for their songwriting and vocals, whether they are working together as Depeche Mode or working on their own separate project.

The great thing about both of their voices is how completely different they can be. When Dave sings a song, it is a completely different effect than when Martin sings the same song. Sometimes it can be difficult to decide which version is the most enjoyable because both are able to project their own emotions and style into the song. Yet, it did make me start wondering about whose vocals are the most preferred within the fan base.

Personally, although I greatly enjoy Dave's vocals in many of Depeche Mode's songs, I have always considered Martin's vocals to be more of a hidden gem on each Depeche Mode album. I have always found myself waiting to hear his backing vocals on a song or searching for the one song on each album that is just purely Martin. It's because I really like the soulful quality of his voice -- where Dave can meet the grittier and more edgy tones in his vocals, Martin can match it with more emotional and soulful tones. However, I don't consider one singer to be better than the other, because I think they both have their own strengths as singers.

New Depeche Mode Album in 2013?

A new interview with music magazine Sonic Seducer seems to imply that a new Depeche Mode album is planned for release in the upcoming year. Martin Gore has stated that the next album will be released "no later than early 2013" and has also mentioned that he will not be able to tour for his project with Vince Clarke, VCMG. Gore states in Italian Vogue that the reason that he cannot dedicate himself to a tour for VCMG is because he is currently working on the new Depeche Mode album instead. He is quoted as saying "It's still all a little hazy, but I've written a bit of music: we'll see each other soon and start working together."

All of this information seems to match up fairly well with what Andy Fletcher mentioned last year during his DJ set in Italy. Fletcher mentioned that the band was going to meet up in January 2012 to start planning and recording the new album. Recording was supposed to finish by March and then be followed by touring throughout 2012 and 2013. Considering Martin's update to this information in Sonic Seducer, it seems that fans will be in for a new treat with this upcoming 13th album. Meanwhile, while fans continue to wait for this new addition, they will be able to enjoy the sounds of VCMG.

Considering the style of previous Depeche Mode albums in the past, what do you think the new album will sound like? Additionally, where are some locations that you hope the band will visit in the upcoming tour?

Perfect Example Of Getting Your Kids Into Depeche Mode

The following video is a perfect example of getting children interested in the same type of music that you listen to. In the attached video, Dicken Schrader covers his own version of Depeche Mode's "Everything Counts" with the help of his two adorable children. The kids look like they're having a great time with their dad and the cover is actually pretty awesome.
Now, I don't know if these kids listen to Depeche Mode often with their father, but I'm going to guess that they've heard some songs frequently enough since they're able to keep up very well with the song. When they're older, they're always going to remember when their father made that Depeche Mode cover with them and posted the video on YouTube for everyone else to see because he was proud of them - those are the type of fun and quality memories that are great to associate with any type of music, whether it's Depeche Mode or any other band.

After watching this video, I started thinking about a few things. Initially, I started thinking about my own happy memories associated with Depeche Mode and my mother. Music is important at any age, and I still remember all of the wonderful road trips I used to take with my mom while Depeche Mode's entire discography played in the background.

Likewise, I thought about another element -- with the amount of cool and unique covers that exist on YouTube, such as this video by Dicken -- I wonder if the members of Depeche Mode ever check out the internet and listen to what their fans have created. In fact, I wonder if they have seen Dicken's video with his children yet.

VCMG Showcases & Reunites Two Depeche Mode Members

Prepare yourselves, Depeche Mode fans -- a new collaboration from Vince Clarke and Martin Gore will be ready for release on March 13, 2012. VCMG reunites the musical genius of DM songwriter Martin L. Gore and former member, Vince Clarke, for a techno collaboration that is certain to satisfy. Songs such as "Single Blip" and "Bendy Bass" indicate that this new release (currently entitled "SSSS") will focus on raw, vintage techno at its finest.

Even though Martin and Vince have not worked together since 1981, the collaboration already seems to be very promising. There will be two remix EPs that will give fans a taste of the music to come until the album's release in March. And there are plenty of fans. Not only will Depeche Mode fans appreciate this new side project -- many Erasure fans will also likely be interested in the side project in consideration of Vince Clarke's unforgettable work as a part of Erasure.

Both Clarke and Gore have stated that there is not quite a specific style or sound that they are seeking to create with the new release.

Since both musicians share a love for techno and remarkable synth instrumentals, the collaboration was purely natural. It reflects well in their music -- there is a unique, familiar flow that is certain to impress Depeche Mode and Erasure fans alike.

For a preview of what VCMG has to offer, check out "Spock" below. This song is featured on the first EP and may be a great indication of what the upcoming musical path for the new duo will sound like. What do you think?