Depeche Mode - Sounds of the Universe

Note: originally written for my review website, ShaunMunro.co.uk, thanks! ~~~ #1: In Chains ========== Depeche Mode's album kicks off in jarring, almost droning fashion. A slow-rise leaves one feeling a little impatient, but once the vocals kick in, followed by some minimalist lead guitar and melodic bass, all fear abates. A moody, brooding track that, at almost seven minutes, could very well have outstayed its welcome, yet the enticing vocal work and gripping bass make this one an addictive, entrancing listen - 8/10 #2: Hole to Feed ============= A relentless drum beat from the outset makes this another memorable ...  Read the complete review

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ INTRO (or Musings for the Masses) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ First of all a confession. I am a dyed in the wool Depeche Mode (DM) fan, and have been since I first listened to Some Great Reward in 1984 - the album that featured the hit international single "People Are People" and announced DM's arrival to a wider public. I could probably string together entire conversations consisting of DM lyrics, and am sad enough to admit that me, and my cousin - a fellow devotee, have done so on one or two less than sober occasions. At least three DM albums would make my top ten desert island discs. As such, ...  Read the complete review