From The Pit...
Depeche Mode have had quite a tumultuous period between their last album "Songs of Faith and Devotion", the subsequent two part tour for that album, and the release of their latest disc entitled simply "Ultra".
Alan Wilder, usually an integral part of Depeche's sound and musical arrangements, left the band, citing personal and philosophical differences. Singer Dave Gahan battled heroin addiction and tried to kill himself. It looked like Depeche had reached their end, or had decided to take their lyrics a little too seriously.
"Ultra" debuted at number 5 on the Billboard charts in the US. The last Depeche studio album "Songs of Faith..." debuted at number one, despite its subsequent speedy descent down the charts. The tours for "Faith" sold out across the country. This time, Depeche will not be touring. There will be only three shows: one in London, one in New York, and one in Los Angeles. Apparently temptation and partying on tour were major contributors to Gahan's drug problems.
The first single form "Ultra" was "Barrel of a Gun", an uneventful tune which seems to have Depeche striving for some watered down industrial guitar driven sound. The chorus is catchy though.
The follow up single was "It's No Good", a more traditional Depeche number and one of their best pieces to date. "Don't tell me you want me/ don't tell me you need me/ don't tell me you love me/ it's understood".
Another standout on the album is "Useless". It starts with a driving guitar and keeps goin' from there. "All your stupid ideals/you've got your head in the clouds/you should see how it feels/with your feet on the ground".
"Ultra" is no "Violator" or "Black Celebration". This is sort of a new sound for Depeche Mode, due most likely to the absence of Wilder. The album was produced by Tim Simenon, with sparse arrangements and a lack of the multi layered fell of past Depeche efforts.
It was interesting to recently catch the band on "The Tonight Show" in their first American network television performance. The crowd was loud and supportive. The performance of "It's No Good" was exceptional, featuring live guitar, live drums and two synthesizers. The band, especially Gahan, seemed quite nervous. Perhaps they were contemplating their future as a band.
I think this will be the last Depeche album. Their career will be topped off by the greatest hits package due next year.
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