You have to hand it to The Mode. More than 20 years in, they have not only survived but thrived in several musical eras where their sound was anything but en vogue. They are one of a small handful of acts that succeed by not changing their formula (most of the others that come to mind are classic rock acts; Tom Petty, The Allman Brothers Band, etc.). Their latest, Playing The Angel, is continuing proof of this.
By sticking to formula, I don't mean to say that there is nothing new here. As always, the production is top-notch, and the songs are laced with all the latest blips, bleeps, and future-scapes. But the disc as a whole rocks like classic DM albums, and you often feel like you've known a certain tune for years on only the second or third listen. That might read as a back-handed compliment to some, but considering the music of some of the present-day bands DM has spawned, it's rather like big fucking breath of fresh air.
Suffer Well is a great example of this. It has all the thematic hallmarks of their earlier work, and the harmonies Martin Gore provides remind me of two of my favorite DM tracks: Little 15 & Dressed in Black. If you've ever been a fan of this band, I doubt this album will disappoint. Should also lead to a fat crate of remixes just in time for this year's WMC.
Depeche Mode "Suffer Well"
12.14.2005
Depeche Mode "Suffer Well"
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2 comments:
Flash, I totally agree. Playing the Angel is one of the albums of the year, and Suffer Well a standout old skool DM track.
Man we can't get enuff of ur site over here in Scotland, keep those downloads coming.
The Boys of Old Bo'ness are off to the Arches in Glasgow on 26th for Colours with Roger Sanchez, Eric Prydz and oor fave - Fergie boy!! A night of banging hard house on the cards.
Merry Xmas and a Happy 2006 m8!
Thanks man! I'm always sending people to check out your blog...you make me laugh my ass off every week. Thanks for that. I'll keep the downloads coming, you keep your blog coming.
I swear, I was born in the wrong country. Most things I love come from your side of the pond.
For those of you reading this who haven't been yet, get over to The Boys of Old Bo'ness now. You won't regret it.
Happy 2006 all!
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