Reviews (page 5 of 13)
Loved depeche mode in the early 80’s but not listened to much else. Pleasantly surprised by this album.
Never listened to a Depeche Mode album (to my recollection) which appears to have been a bad call on my part.
Very good! Kinda got NIN vibes.
Released in my year of birth This album gave me mirth Music for the masses These intrepid molasses Synth beats all around Drum computer can be found Promises me I'm safe as houses As long as I remember who wears the trousers
Very enjoyable quintessential 80’s sound 4/5
En vrai, niveau New Wave, c’est quand même du lourd que nous propose Depeche Mode. Pas au point de me faire rouler par terre en déversant tout mes fluides corporels en simultané, malheureusement.
4.25 DM finally clicking for me behind their hits.
Ufffff. Se queda muy cerca de Violator, me gusta mucho la parte final del álbum con los instrumentales, pero Violator me pareció más redondo... No me parecen al mismo nivel. Otro 4 alto.
Many unique songs and a couple hits. I remember being slightly let down compared to other DM albums.
This might sound like an oxymoron, but my favorite Depeche Mode songs always end up being the more organic ones. Personal Jesus is more of an alt-dance track but the guitar riff it's centered around gives it a really nice distinction and breath from the rest of Violator. "Enjoy the Silence" is a song I've never really been impressed with despite it topping all the top 10 most emotional pop songs of the 80s lists. Songs of Faith and Devotion is my favorite album I've heard from them because of their full pivot into alternative rock. Those crunching guitars, sweeping arrangements, even hints of trip hop entering the mix throughout the record make it extremely interesting. So how do I feel about their darkwave era where none of that was present, and none of that mattered? Well, Music for the Masses is a good album: you can press play and instantly hear the influence it's had on the darker side of synthpop. The arrangements are on the minimal side, but atmospheric and detailed; you could even go as far as to say something like The Things You Said is "lush" thanks to the textures used. I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed the grooves throughout, it makes a lot out of the space it builds and the sounds it uses in a way that reminds me of the Chameleons or the Sound (Khai approved post-punk)...I might even prefer it to Violator? Cut a few songs off the second half and I'll have to think on that. It's not something I'd seek out on my own time, but I ended up really enjoying this album. Ending up on this album reminds me I desperately need to check out Ultra. Maybe that'll be my new favorite Depeche Mode. 7/10
Just like my last album.. it’s really too bad I didn’t appreciate this more when it came out. I missed out on it and then.. really good album
Good album. Good tunes
I will not be factoring the bonus tracks from the CD release for this review. I've listened to Depeche Mode, from singles such as "Personal Jesus" and "I Just Can't Get Enough" to their recent album Memento Mori. I generally enjoy their brand of electronic music with dark undertones, and Music for the Masses is a good representation of that style. This album will ebb and flow in its twisted madness. The first half lures in with songs that have a driving beat amidst the spare guitar riffs and lush electronic elements such as "Never Let Me Down Again" and "Strangelove" all the while David Grahan commands in his baritone voice with occasional assistance from Martin Gore's soft tenor as they wallow in their perverse views of relationships and desires. Along the way though, the beat becomes sparing as the song structures become more atypical - the subtle synth orchestration on "Little 15", the respiratory breathing used as a focal point for "I Want You Now", segueing into the dirge of "To Have and to Hold", culminating in the spare piano riff of "Pimpf" that builds into a more sinister presence with the operatic vocals, organ arpeggios and clashes of cymbals in the distance. I wouldn't call this experience bad so much as unsettling on purpose. A means to deliberately discomfort the listener and make them question what they heard, to explore deeper and find what lurks within. I enjoyed Music for the Masses in its perverse manner. I understand not everyone will enjoy it, given the reliance on dissonance and the macabre in Depeche Mode's music on display here. Nevertheless, this album is a worthwhile experiment for those curious.
I had to give this album a second listen and listen really closely. The layering of the sounds on this album and the different types of sounds they got here are amazing. Especially when I think through how new synthesizers were back then. Remarkable.
Álbum com frescor, mas também com uma certa familiaridade. Vontade de ouvir na banheira, ou apresentando o Balanço Geral. Músicas favoritas: * Never Let Me Down Again * Strangelove * Agent Orange
Achei massa conhecer mais desse som new wave, que até então não conhecia muito. Muitas musicas me agradaram, em especial Never Let me down again, little 15 e behind the wheel
porra, que delícia hein. esse é bão demais. fiquei dançandinho no trabalho e me zoaram.
I surprise myself every time I listen to a Depeche Mode album. It never fills me with anticipation or excitement but as soon as I do I wonder why they are not on a more regular rotation. Everything you want from them. Minimal, overblown, love, loss and an undercurrent of darkness always threatening to pull you under.
DM approach peak greatness. Take a fresh faced boy from Essex, some leather pants, banks of synths and enough drugs that you could knock out an elephant and see what you get. Not every track is elite level here, but "Never Let Me Down Again", "Strangelove" and "little 15" show the direction of travel
Interesting to get this today after Sisters Of Mercy yesterday; they're not a million miles away stylistically. SoM a little gothier, but both 80's synth heavy moody music. The major difference is in quality; this is miles better than SoM. The unappealing last track (Pimpf) keeps it from a five star though.
I have listened to this album countless times, but it's been a while. I was ready to give it a 5 star without listening. It didn't age well—it was very cringy.
очень люблю депешей но на момент прослушивания были честно скажу - ну максимально не под настроение. знаю что музыка замечательная, но именно сегодня не оценил должно, каюсь. электронщина, чистый и хороший пост-панк. круто. но к середине альбома чет совсем тоскливо стало, что жесть. благо pleasure little treasure вывезла. хорошая. аккустика, элементы хард роцка: всё как надо, молодцы. ну и соната в завершении - пошла прям. знатная группа, уважаю.
downloaded 2,3,4 & 5. acquired taste ? enjoyed
I would definitely listen to this again. The album is well structured and keeps you drawn in with good variation interspersed with familiar hits
pretty good
I don't listen to much new wave or synth pop, but this was a strong album, with interesting song structures and Gahan's distinctive singing. I liked it!
Personal enjoyment: 4/5 Relevance to this list: 4/5
Great one!
A very solid album by Gore and the boys
The first half of this album is spectacular and points to the even better to come Violator, the later half is more trenchant in theme and musically suffers from the seriousness.
I actually liked this album better than the last. It was moody and fun
For me this is one of the 4 best Depeche Mode albums, black celebration, this, violator and songs of faith and devotion. I think with these 4 albums they became darker and moodier and I like that. I am gonna give it a 4 as I think black celebration and violater are better and would get a 5. Still brill though.
love me some depeche mode. always a pleasure
One of my likes
“Never Let Me Down Again” is one of the best Depeche Mode singles and has a dark gothic feel. This song isn’t just slogging along, it really keeps you invested and where it will go. Love the lyric “Promises me I'm as safe as houses As long as I remember who's wearing the trousers” Stand out Tracks “The Things You Said “ “Sacred” “To Have and To Hold” “Nothing” The Last track “Pimpf” is almost psychological horror sounding and leaves the album on a haunting note. This album overall is definitely up my alley and one of Depeche Modes best. It’s losing the more synth pop style of earlier releases and going into an even Darker direction. It’s personally not my favourite by them, but it has enough here for me to see its Merit on this list. You can’t deny the power of both lead vocalist. 4/5
Not bad
Ladies & gentlemen, I’ve found the new soundtrack to GTA 6. It has synths as far as the eye can see just like the good lord intended
Great album from a band with an original distinctive sound.
I liked this album especially “Little 15”, but all of the other tracks were good too! (Haven’t listened to an album in a month god)
Broody synths and not overly poppy. I liked this and think I'll enjoy more with more listens. Strangelove is a banger.
Pretty much my wheelhouse
Year ago, my mom introduced me to Depeche Mode, and the world has seemed brighter, more suave ever since.
You can hear that they start to find the sound that define them so well and that will be mature with their next release, Violator. It's not as good as their sound is still a work in progress, but it's going in the right (and dark) direction.
Doesn’t hit with the same oomph as their future works (rightfully so, it means that improve with future releases) but when their breakout album is THIS good, it’s easy to see how this wound up being a breakout. Strangelove especially gets hella replay value and the opening track starts with a bang that the rest of the album lives up to.
All the haters saying Depeche Droned or whatever corny pun can pound sand this shit slaps.
started off really really strong but i started to lose interest by the end, especially with the ooga chaka type ethereal chanting on the final two tracks. i like depeche mode, i just can't see myself listening to this as a full album on a regular basis. fav tracks: never let me down again; the things you said; strangelove; to have and to hold
These are so technically well-made and I felt like the first ~half of the album was super compelling, but then it started to feel like the songs went on a little too long for me. I think an hour is a bit long for an electronic album for ME...but it was good music for the background while working. A lot of the songs were super interesting and I can see why this is such a seminal album for the history of electronic music for sure and overall I would say I definitely enjoyed it.
Not one thing out of place and the voice has not aged.
All time favorite! Brings back so many great memories
can see where this band laid the foundations for goth and industrial here
I love me these Depeche Mode soundscapes. Not as good as some of their other stuff but still a solid record. Weirdly I love driving to their music. 4/5
One of Depeche Mode's more accessible albums. Definitely iconic.
Second Depeche Mode Album to pop in on this list…and it’s worthy. Six albums in and they were coming into their own. Love their sound.
Would have never listened to this if it wasn’t for this album generator. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Not the best driving music with all the weird sounds, but loved it nonetheless
You ever get worried that you don't actually like a certain artist and that you really only like the one song or album you've heard? Well fortunately, I can safely say that that does not apply to me and Depeche Mode. I loved Violator. I can't believe I initially gave it a 4. That has since been remedied. But yeah, that album is phenomenal, so I was very excited to see if the album that came before it, Music for the Masses, holds up too. Fortunately, it does! Well, okay, I have to say one thing. Violator is the better album. I can confidently say that. However, Music for the Masses is still a great album. You can still hear the things that make Violator so special. The dark atmosphere, the stellar vocals, and the eerie lyrics are still there, albeit not quite as refined as they are one album later. Certain songs even remind me of specific songs from Violator. For instance, "Nothing" kind of gave me "Sweetest Perfection" vibes. I really think I'm gonna have to check out the other Depeche Mode albums after this. This is just great. High 4/5.
Well crafted vibes. 4/5
### **Introduction** "Music for the Masses," released on September 28, 1987, is Depeche Mode's sixth studio album. The album marked a significant shift for the band, both in terms of musical style and thematic content, pushing them further into the mainstream while solidifying their status as one of the most innovative and influential acts of the 1980s. This review delves into the album's lyrics, music, production, themes, and its lasting influence, offering a critical analysis of its strengths and weaknesses. ### **Lyrics** Depeche Mode’s lyrics have always been a crucial element of their appeal, blending melancholy with introspection, and "Music for the Masses" is no exception. The album’s lyrical themes revolve around personal and emotional turmoil, existentialism, and a sense of longing and despair. 1. **Never Let Me Down Again**: One of the standout tracks, it captures the essence of dependence and submission, both in personal relationships and possibly in broader societal contexts. The song’s recurring metaphor of a drug-like relationship ("I’m taking a ride with my best friend") hints at addiction and the loss of control, a common theme in Martin Gore's songwriting. 2. **Strangelove**: This track delves into the complexities of love, focusing on the tension between desire and self-destruction. The lyrics oscillate between passion and guilt, reflecting the dual nature of human emotions. 3. **Behind the Wheel**: This song plays with the concept of control and surrender, using the metaphor of driving to explore the dynamics of power in a relationship. The lyrics are minimalistic but potent, enhancing the sense of unease and anticipation. 4. **The Things You Said**: A more introspective track, this song is about the impact of words and the pain of betrayal. The lyrics are raw and personal, reflecting the vulnerability that lies beneath the band’s polished exterior. 5. **I Want You Now**: This song strips down to a raw plea for intimacy and connection, with lyrics that are direct yet filled with yearning. The sexual undertones in the lyrics add a layer of urgency and intensity. **Pros**: - The lyrics are emotionally resonant, offering a deep dive into human psychology. - Gore’s ability to blend abstract concepts with personal experience creates a universal appeal. - The recurring themes of dependence, control, and longing are explored with nuance. **Cons**: - Some tracks, like "Sacred," may feel repetitive or overly simplistic in their lyrical content. - The abstract nature of the lyrics may alienate listeners who prefer more straightforward narratives. ### **Music** Musically, "Music for the Masses" is a rich tapestry of electronic sounds, blending dark synths with pop sensibilities. The album is characterized by its use of sampling, atmospheric soundscapes, and a departure from the band’s earlier, more minimalist approach. 1. **Production Techniques**: The production, handled by Depeche Mode along with David Bascombe, is polished and expansive. The use of synthesizers is more sophisticated than in previous albums, with a greater emphasis on layering and texture. The album also incorporates elements of industrial and alternative rock, making it one of their most diverse offerings. 2. **Instrumentation**: The instrumentation on the album is notable for its balance between electronic and organic sounds. Tracks like "Never Let Me Down Again" feature driving synth lines paired with powerful drum patterns, while "Little 15" incorporates orchestral elements, providing a melancholic counterpoint to the synthetic backdrop. 3. **Melodic Structure**: The melodies are haunting and memorable, with each song crafted to evoke specific emotional responses. "Strangelove" and "Behind the Wheel" are prime examples of this, where the melodies are both catchy and unsettling, reflecting the duality of the lyrics. 4. **Rhythm and Tempo**: The album experiments with different tempos, from the upbeat, almost danceable rhythm of "Strangelove" to the slower, more contemplative pace of "The Things You Said." This variety keeps the listener engaged, as each track offers a different emotional and sonic experience. **Pros**: - The album’s production is meticulously crafted, creating a lush, immersive soundscape. - The use of diverse instrumentation and sampling techniques adds depth and complexity. - Melodies are both catchy and emotionally charged, enhancing the lyrical themes. **Cons**: - Some listeners may find the production too polished, lacking the raw edge of earlier works. - The heavy reliance on electronic instrumentation might alienate fans of more traditional rock sounds. ### **Production** "Music for the Masses" represents a significant step forward in Depeche Mode’s production quality, marking a move towards a more commercial sound while retaining the band’s dark, introspective edge. The production is characterized by its precision and attention to detail, with each track meticulously crafted to create a specific mood. 1. **Sound Engineering**: The album’s engineering is crisp and clear, allowing the various layers of sound to be heard distinctly. This clarity is particularly evident in tracks like "Never Let Me Down Again," where the dense instrumentation could easily become muddled but instead remains coherent and impactful. 2. **Use of Sampling**: Sampling plays a significant role in the album’s production, with the band experimenting with found sounds and unconventional sources. This technique adds an industrial, almost mechanical quality to the music, enhancing the themes of alienation and control. 3. **Mixing and Mastering**: The mixing is well-balanced, with a clear separation between the different elements of each track. The mastering ensures that the album has a consistent sound across all tracks, with no single element overpowering the others. 4. **Collaboration with David Bascombe**: The collaboration with David Bascombe brought a fresh perspective to the band’s sound, helping to refine and polish the album without losing its emotional core. Bascombe’s experience with pop and rock acts is evident in the album’s accessibility and mainstream appeal. **Pros**: - The production is polished and professional, enhancing the album’s commercial potential. - Sampling and sound engineering add depth and texture to the music. - The collaboration with David Bascombe results in a more refined sound without sacrificing the band’s identity. **Cons**: - Some fans may miss the raw, experimental edge of earlier Depeche Mode albums. - The polished production might be seen as a move towards a more commercial sound, potentially alienating some of the band’s original fanbase. ### **Themes** "Music for the Masses" is thematically rich, exploring complex emotional landscapes and societal issues through its lyrics and music. The album’s title is both ironic and apt, reflecting the band’s ambition to reach a wider audience while dealing with themes that are far from "mass appeal." 1. **Alienation and Isolation**: Many of the album’s tracks deal with feelings of alienation and isolation, both in personal relationships and in a broader societal context. Songs like "Behind the Wheel" and "The Things You Said" explore the distance between individuals, even within intimate relationships. 2. **Power and Control**: The theme of power dynamics is central to the album, with several tracks exploring the tension between control and submission. "Never Let Me Down Again" and "Behind the Wheel" both use metaphors of travel and movement to illustrate these dynamics, creating a sense of unease and instability. 3. **Love and Desire**: Love, in its various forms, is a recurring theme throughout the album. However, the love depicted here is often fraught with complications, guilt, and self-doubt. "Strangelove" captures this duality perfectly, as does "I Want You Now," which juxtaposes desire with a sense of desperation. 4. **Existential Reflection**: The album also delves into existential themes, questioning the nature of existence and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent world. "Little 15" and "To Have and To Hold" both touch on these themes, using minimalistic lyrics to convey a deep sense of existential angst. **Pros**: - The album’s themes are complex and thought-provoking, offering more than just surface-level pop music. - The exploration of alienation, control, and existentialism is handled with nuance and sophistication. - The thematic cohesion across the album makes it a compelling and immersive listening experience. **Cons**: - The heavy themes may be off-putting to listeners looking for lighter, more accessible music. - The album’s introspective nature may not resonate with all audiences, particularly those unfamiliar with Depeche Mode’s style. ### **Influence** "Music for the Masses" is one of Depeche Mode’s most influential albums, both in terms of its impact on the band’s career and its broader influence on the music industry. 1. **Commercial Success**: The album marked a turning point for Depeche Mode, breaking them into the American market and establishing them as a major force in the music industry. The success of singles like "Never Let Me Down Again" and "Strangelove" helped the band gain a larger audience, paving the way for their subsequent albums. 2. **Impact on Electronic Music**: "Music for the Masses" has been cited as a key influence on the development of electronic music in the late 1980s and 1990s. The album’s sophisticated use of synthesizers and sampling techniques helped to legitimize electronic music as a serious genre, influencing a wide range of artists across different genres. 3. **Legacy in Alternative Rock**: The album also had a significant impact on the alternative rock scene, blending electronic and rock elements in a way that would later be emulated by bands like Nine Inch Nails and Radiohead. Depeche Mode’s ability to balance dark, introspective themes with commercial appeal set a template for alternative bands to follow. 4. **Cultural Impact**: Beyond its musical influence, "Music for the Masses" also had a cultural impact, particularly in its exploration of themes like alienation and control. The album resonated with a generation disillusioned by the excesses of the 1980s, offering a darker, more introspective alternative to the era’s prevailing pop culture. **Pros**: - The album’s influence on electronic music and alternative rock is undeniable, with its sound and themes echoing in the work of countless artists. - "Music for the Masses" helped to expand Depeche Mode’s fanbase and solidify their place in music history. - The album’s exploration of dark, introspective themes set it apart from other pop music of the time, giving it a lasting cultural impact. **Cons**: - The album’s success and influence led to increased pressure on the band to produce commercially successful music, which some critics argue may have influenced their later work. - The album’s impact on the music industry has overshadowed some of the band’s earlier, more experimental work, which is often overlooked in discussions of their legacy. ### **Conclusion** "Music for the Masses" is a landmark album in Depeche Mode’s discography, representing a significant evolution in their sound and themes. The album’s sophisticated production, emotionally resonant lyrics, and exploration of complex themes make it a compelling listen, while its influence on electronic music and alternative rock is undeniable. **Pros**: - Strong, emotionally charged lyrics that explore complex themes. - Innovative production and use of electronic instrumentation. - Significant influence on both electronic music and alternative rock. - Thematically cohesive and immersive. **Cons**: - Some tracks may feel repetitive or overly polished. - The heavy, introspective themes may not appeal to all listeners. - The album’s success led to increased pressure on the band, influencing their subsequent work. Overall, "Music for the Masses" stands as one of Depeche Mode’s most important and enduring albums, offering a perfect blend of artistic integrity and mainstream appeal.
Virkelig et behageligt gennemlyt.
Ultra solidt album. Jeg nød alt på nær det mix helvede der er til sidst på den udgave Spotify havde fundet til mig. (også 20 minutter for langt med de numre..) Jeg høre den uden tvivl igen en dag. 👌
Der er nogle kæmpe bangers på det her album. Og resten er bund solidt. DM fortsætter deres udvikling fra lys dance-pop til mørk electronica.
Hadn’t heard before
I don’t really like eighties music but I’d be lying if I said this wasn’t amazing
I really enjoyed this. Dark and brooding synth pop sounds like an unlikely combination on paper but Depeche Mode really pull it off, and Dave Gahan has an excellent voice to complement it.
Вот вроде все хорошо, но последние 2 трека очень плохо.
Not quite as good as Violator, but close. 4/5
I liked this. I hadn’t heard of depeche mode but I guess they r pretty popular. Seems pretty standard as far as English rock esque bands on this list go. I feel like w/ the arcade fire/new order/joy division/jefferson airplane albums I liked them fine on the first listen but I've grown to like them significantly more bc individual songs just pop up on my playlists n they just are good... I can see this being similar to that I think?
Actually really liked this, was pretty accessible. 8/10
7/10 - It was pretty good but nothing fantastic. Never let me down aggro mix went hard. I thought I would have liked Depeche mode more than I did
I like 80s synthpop stuff so I thought this was pretty good but if I'm gonna listen to Depeche Mode I'd rather just listen to violator
So over the top and dramatic. Makes me feel like a teenager who has feelings no one in the world has ever felt before. And I am here for it. I am sure it is mostly nostalgia but I love Depeche Mode and all the ridiculous 80’s synth glory.
This one trip into British New Wave was actually not bad. It kinda enjoyed a lot of it. May have just been in the mood, but I’ll give it to the album for now.
I always thought Depeche Mode sounded like a metal band name, until recently when I realized they weren't a metal band and that I, in fact, knew a few of their songs without knowing there were by them. This was my first time listening to an album of theirs and I really liked it. I found some songs I rlly rlly enjoyed and will return to
This album was kind of dark and definitely different than most of the music I've gotten here, and I am liking it. I do like synth pop, and this feels pretty gothic at the same time. My favorite was Behind the Wheel, but Never Let Me Down Again, The Things You Said, and Pimpf were all pretty cool too.
Having heard their seminal release 'Violater' very recently - falling in love with its dark, moody, and almost dystopian aura (gothic synthpop?), I was very much looking forward to listening to more Depeche Mode. Honestly, 'Music for the Masses' is in the same vein as its successor, following a loveable formula composed of some of the most textured pop synths in 80s new-wave - and David Gahan's vocals that scream dissatisfaction, emptiness, and hunger. There's so much drama here when diving into the cold lyrical drive against this almost industrial and robotic bass and drum machine combination - especially seen on the songs 'Strangelove', 'Behind the Wheel', and 'Sacred'. It's also undeniably catchy at times. This album just has this infectious combination of vocals and diverse synths, drowning the listener in its countless melodic layers. It's what made me fall in love with this band in the first place.
- Bin eigentlich kein großer Depeche Mode fan. Das Album hat mich überraschender Weise aber irgendwie ziemlich abgeholt. - Kannte keinen einzigen Song von dem Album (vielleicht habe ich den ersten mal gehört, i dont know) - weniger poppig und mehr verschroben als sonst, hat mir das wirklich gut gefallen. Einzig der Gesang, war mir stellenweise etwas zu wabernd und dünn 3,75/5
I love the Depeche Mode sound. There was a synth that reminded me of DOOM 1, which is an extra bonus! 4/5
Another good album…7/10
I like the melancholic vibe
Funsies
Another solid Depeche Mode album, with good synths and songwriting.
The 80s, campy, low budget slasher flick soundtrack of music
Interesting album in that it has some of the best tracks DM have ever done, but it also peters out a bit towards the end with more instrumental/experimental stuff ("Pimpf", ugh) that is a bit out of band or doesn't feel quite done. The highs are so high though that I can't really fathom giving it less than 4 stars.
Heard of them - don't know specific songs.
Hidden gem in the Depeche Mode discography. It shows you where did Violator came from.
I don't want to say that the Depeche Mode albums before Music for the Masses are skippable or forgettable, but the first three don't hold a lot of magic past the singles, and while Some Great Reward presages what comes here, it lacks a certain muscle. This is the album where DM got that muscle.
Pioneros de la música tecno, Depeche Mode asientan toda su experiencia anterior en este disco que comienza a lo grande con el gancho melódico de "Never Let Me Down Again". Todo el sonido del disco es grandioso y espectacular, un alarde tecnológico que destaca también en los otros sencillos extraídos del álbum: "Strangelove" y "Behind the Wheel", así como del temazo de amor gore "To Have and to Hold". También hay lugar para temas más líricos y letras más trabajadas, como ocurre con los temas "I Want You" y "The Things You Said". Sin duda uno de los mejores discos de Depeche Mode, que hace honor a su título.
Whew, the dark moody vibes on this yin. And the industrial percussion with smooth vocal harmonies just tickles my brain. I'm thinking 80s synth pop might be my jam? Highlights: Never Let Me Down Again, Strangelove, Little 15, I Want You Now, Nothing, Pimpf
My gf didnt like it.
Music for the masses to me, is Depeche Mode doing what they do best. Every record sees the band polishing their sound and this one is no exception. My only complaint is that it’s not necessarily something new, just a further enhancement of what we already knew. Nevertheless it’s done exquisitely and all of these songs are effortless and enjoyable experiences
Definitely a unique sound. This one could only be classified as an experience. Fuck it, I’m a fan.
Great to listen to. Good music to have on in the background. Not too distracting but interesting and sounds good. I would listen through this album again, but I'd skip I Want You Now if I do. You can leave those odd heavy breathing noises for someone else
One of my favorite voices from the 80's-90's the rest of the band is no slouch either.
Unusual but very good music.
Great
Will have to listen to again. An album I’ve just not got around to listening to even though I’ve always liked the things you said. The tracks pimpf and agent orange really caught my attention towards the end.
Well, it’s pretty amazing
Brilliant album. Highlights are Strangelove, Behind The Wheel and the classic that is Never Let Me Down Again 4/5
Good album.
I own 2 Depeche Mode albums and like both. The are not masterpieces by any-one's standard but still OK. This is like those, pretty good but not great.
It's alright but it's no Violator.
It’s no Violator, but still a very good album
I struggle too describe exactly the sound and feeling Depeche Mode invokes. Authoritarian exhaustion? Fatalistic depression? It's an interesting niche and a cool sound.
Enjoyed this. Hadn't heard before.
Can't explain why but it is a 4 to my ears.
A few gens; Strange Love is a cult classic
Heck yeah! I could listen to this all day. Love me some Depeche Mode, even if I still no zero words after all this time I still sing along to the synth lines every time.
I have slightly less affection for the songs on this album than I do for Violator, but my comments are pretty much the same. Super solid electronic music. 4.0
dark and hypnotic. when i am in the mood for dark music but not necessarily metal, nothing scratches that itch like depeche mode. solid album through and through. highlights: “strangelove” “little 15” “behind the wheel”
I like DM, but violator is their best work. This one was good though.
Muy buen disco que arranca a pleno y después se pincha un poco. Es más tranqui que el que tenía yo.
Love Depeche Mode
Churning; brooding; punchy. Pretty great.
Solid singles, but several of the other tracks really drag.
I guess I’m part of the masses, because I quite liked this. Favorite track: Strangelove 3.5 rounded up
Wonderful
I don’t think anyone does gothy-synth-pop better than Depeche Mode. The flow of the album is great, and I love how simple everything is. I do prefer Violator to this album, but it’s still a great one. 4.0
Big DM fan, its not my favourite of theirs but was a good sign of where they where heading sound wise.
decent
Приятно слушать. Представляет моё детство.
Lots of the New Wave classics are pretty cool eh? Liked this better than Violator, which I previously (and for no reason) assumed would be the only Depeche Mode I sort of liked. Side note: it sure makes a guy nervous to see a song called Little 15. I sighed with relief when they quickly revealed that the guy in the song is also 15.
Surprisingly good
Strangelove is the highlight of the album by far, but I still like the whole vibe.
Rating: 7.5/10 Very good album overall. Really enjoyed the dark tone of the album and ambience created by the band. The band achieves a lot with a more minimalistic approach on this album, it gives the songs room to breathe and develop while focusing more on the atmosphere. There were plenty of catchy instrumental and vocal melodies throughout, the album was quite catchy for also being dark. Some songs were pretty lackluster in comparison to the others but still very enjoyable overall. Favorite songs: Never Let Me Down Again, The Things You Said, Strangelove, Sacred, Nothing, Pimpf. Worst song: I Want You Now.
Embrace the darkness.
G O T H
Amazing synth pop album. Really moody and quite gothic. 8/10
A very scary album. Like genuinely a great satirical title. I love the Cure and the Smiths and this right up that same alley. I will listening to and relistening to this one often. An album tht strikes such an emotion and leaving us with moonlight sonata at the end of the dread is beautiful. Little 15 is a standout to me and I want you now is one of the most unnerving starts to a song ever. I am a child and I laughed at Sonta 14 in cum LOL
Super sick album, Depeche mode is one of my mums favourite artists and it was nice to listen to an album. Nice grooves.
Not bad
Pretty good overall. Seemed a little more inventive than I usually go for.
Back in the day - really good.
I own the vinyl, overall a brilliant record, accessible in a way that Black Celebration was not, and yet, mature themes abound. I have a hard time giving it five stars because it's more of a culmination of a direction this band was going in, and less a giant inspiration from unknown sources, but if I could give it a nine, I would.
Really enjoyed this. Perfect album to kick off my Monday workday. Moody but also energetic.
I am the masses.
besser als erwartet
This is my first Depeche Mode album. I was wary of yet another 80s record (my third in a row), especially one over an hour long. Thankfully, it hooked me right away. The mix is bottom-heavy in a way that gives these songs some weight and magnitude, there are vocal performances I can actually discern, and all the 1980s signifiers like the drum machines and squirming base lack the cornball "sheen" of their contemporaries. Thank goodness, it's good music. I'll be revisiting, especially the highlights. (It still could be maybe 10 minutes shorter.) Highlights: Never Let Me Down Again, The Things You Said, Behind the Wheel, Nothing, Pleasure Little Treasure, Route 66 (a cover I never thought I'd hear nor enjoy so much)
This band is fantastic and this album reflects that. I hadn't listened to them or this album for a mighty long time, so I was curious about how it would sound all these years later, and even though quite a few of the tracks have that 80s industrial-synth sound, it's held up quite well. They are clever songwriters and superb performers.
Not normally a fan of this sort of music, but this was quite good. No songs that I hated, happy to listen to them all.
3.5, would have been a 4 if it was only the second half of the album
80s electronic pop. Kinda broody but also some upbeat songs mixed in. Less than half of the album had lyrics, so it was easy to vibe.
Some amazing songs (Never Let Me Down Again, Strangelove, Behind the Wheel), mixed with some middling efforts (Sacred, I Want You Now) and very few misses (The Things You Said). Feel like they were really the trailblazers for nailing dark, synthy *and* poppy (maybe the Cure were the first two, but not often the last one, and *many* others were poppy & synthy but not often dark.) Makes me want to listen to Violator next.
the aesthetics of this music are just awesome.. got a little boring for me in stretches because it's a bit repetitive but honestly i can't dock it for that. fav tracks: nothing, never let me down again, behind the wheel
Samplework is excellent and the production/mix is great! There's an underlying tension throughout most of the album, and it gives the songs a certain darker/sinister vibe. The songs have good driving drumbeats and the different vocals work great! Standout tracks: Never Let Me Down Again, Strangelove, Little 15, Behind The Wheel, To Have And To Hold, Nothing, 8,5 out of 10
full of hits, if that was released in my time, I would be a lifetime die hard fan
Cool English new wave ish. Really good voice. One of the bands have heard mentioned so many times, but not listened to before now.
Dark, brooding, synthy, 80s. Loved it.
nais
Surprisingly enjoyable. beep boop
Always luhh double penetration mode productie en somgwriting, dit is geen uitzondering
I'm not a huge fan of "80s music" but this album was pretty good.
Beautiful. Relentless in its bleakness.
I obviously know Depeche mode, also have seen this album cover, but have never listened to it, must be a good one. First song, I love the start, it's giving factory working. Obviously the voice is nice and Depeche moded. I like that piano rock notes. The metal clanking noise(sounds like it) is on beatt. It's interesting, but too monotonous. This is the most listened song on Spotify. Epicore vibes came in. The choir is great. It's getting progressive I think. Two sounds are colliding now. So many things have happened. I hope others are better than this though. Outro is sea breathing sound. WOW great transition to the second song. This one's slower, his voice is softer too. Background vocals came in while he's still singing. I like the production. Amazing devil vibes low key. The beat in my left hear, weird onking sound, and then some trombone like instrument in my left ear, production is great again I mean. Long outro. I loved the melancholy they brought with this song. Third song, weird beat came in. wow Michael Jackson beat now, it's faster too. Idk what instrument is this, I've heard it before tho, and I like it. I like the rhyme, and the way words are said by him. Even if the song is almost same all the way, it's full of stuff. The echoed singing is the best here(when he sings the talking to pain part). There was a slight appearance of a weird instrument, happened again. Long outro again. 4th song, I think there was a transition. There is echoed background singing. Aand the beat came in. It's fun to listen to, not boring. The guitar is also very good during the chorus. The best parts in every song are the instrumentals. Long outro as always. This one didn't stand out. 5th song, fuck I don't know that instrument, but it's giving. Violin presence is detected. The piano is the best part. This one is annoyingly long and monotonous though. Sad vibe, which I love. Orchestral finish. 6th song, fast beat and it's changing. Right ear has some instrument going on. Guitar chords came in, right to left. Vocals is soft and satisfying. Beat is as fast as in the start. I can't even, so much production. Clapping sound-right ear. He barely skips, but as I said instruments are the best here. Nothing different happened, but it sounded like and intro tbh, the whole song. Just read that first song was about gay sex? Cool if that's true. 7th song, starts with breathing, and moan in the right ear. Song is sexual just because of the name. The instrumental break sounds like an electric piano(if that exists, not familiar with the instrument names). The moan/breathing is all through the song. Laughing came in and went. Long ass outro, oh nvm it ends with that moan, it's okay then(I'm kinda hard), men talking in the radio in russian in my left ear aaant into the 8th song, what a transition. There is animal like sound in my right ear. This one's short, weird. Apparently the russian speaking was because this album was during cold war(knew that) and people were scared of nuclear threat so that man says something connected to it. Not so long outro, it's a little progressive. Oh wow another transition to the 9th song. There is water dropping sound, right ear is with that Depeche mode instrument. The chorus is catchy. Amazing production again. I feel like 3 minutes is fully enough for these songs. He vocals a little. There is background "ooh ooh" sounds like a choir. Long outro aas alwayss. 10th song, love the piano already(might be a sample, apparently not). It's fully instrumental I think, I like that. There is banging sounds in between. Fuck left ear came in hard with that bang. It's epiccore again low-key. It's progressive. I love instrumental songs and this is very good. The operatic man voices while organ(?) came in woow, it's giving action mystery movie's last scene. Oh the bell ringing now. WOOW left ear has a new instrument now. Everything stopped, but the song didn't. Suddenly it is on again, but fully different sounds, violin in the right ear and some destructed piano in the middle. 11th song, starting spooky, even more than before songs. Piano came in. This is instrumental too, I'll use these songs when studying ughh. What is that sound coming in my left ear. So many noises I can't keep up. My tinnitus hit me. I am loving this. It's so chill yet scary. My brain is having a MASSAGE. Phonecall failed sound on loop at the end. Next three songs are mixes. 12th song is a mix of the first song. Beat is nice, left ear has another instrument, same with the right ear. Long intro it is. I skipped a little and the whole song is this, it's not bad it's just not as special as the last two songs. Epicness came in, oh the lyrics too. Not bad, but with lyrics is better. 13th song is a mix of 8th song(russian man voice). Starting with claps. Quite short. I like the vibe(the beat especially). Lyrics are badly said, so not to tell what he is saying. 14th song, it's a glitter mix of a song I haven't listened to on this album. It's interesting. His voice isn't soft, autotuned it might be. There is main beat in the middle, but another travels through ears. The rocky guitar wasn't here before, now it is. Wasn't bad, but not unique either. The outro is long, but might be processive. There is reversed talking included. There is soft voice of him singing in the background at the end of the song. That is it. What a journey. Because of the fact that it's Depeche mode, there was magnificent instrumentals, and the fully instrumental songs devoured, I give this 4 stars. It's not my favourite genre(might become), but it was really not boring and had a spark in it. Also a very chill vibes, which is what I need sometimes.
This is not the best Depeche Mode album, but it is certainly close. I think Violator is the best DM album to start off with, then if you like that one then purchase this album. I have come to really enjoy DM's music and it's hard to argue with the first 7 songs on this album. This album walked so Violator could run.
Depeche Mode is one of those bands that I’d consider myself a casual fan of. I really like their radio hits, but before going through this list, I don’t think I’d listened to one of their whole albums. Like Violator, which I reviewed a few months ago, Music for the Masses has some great songs on it. Right as the album opens, “Never Let Me Down Again” is like an earthquake. The synthesizers, drums and vocals all blend to create that mythic Depeche Mode sound, and that line of “I’m taking a ride…” is perfectly symbolic of the journey into the unknown that this album goes on. The melody of the chorus is perfect, with the tone of the bell sounds somehow darkening the sound even further. “Strangelove” is great too; the ambient pulsing that starts the song, punctuated by percussive tinkling sounds gives way to one of Depeche Mode’s most infamous synth lines. The rhythm of the lyrics during the verse do a great job of keeping the listener off balance, and hanging on for the next line. The other songs are really good too, but in my opinion, few of them come close to matching the greatness “Never Let Me Down Again” or “Strangelove.” “Sacred,” “Little 15,” and “I Want You Now” do the heavy lifting after “Strangelove,” each one contributing managing to contribute something unique to the album (shoutout to those awesome backing vocals/grunts on “I Want You Now”). To me, this album’s legacy and influence comes from the overall sound that Depeche Mode creates. There’s a mood that manages to permeate the whole album, almost like a fog or a mist. Hidden within that fog, there are so many little details that help make the overall sound richer and deeper, making you want to hang on to every note so that you don’t miss anything. It’s a heck of a feat that Depeche Mode was able to take this dark, moody album, and attract a wide audience. When they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2020, I really enjoyed watching other musicians rave about them. Depeche Mode has influenced some of my favorite bands (Chvrches and Crystal Castles come to mind first), and for that, I’ll always be grateful. This is a great album, and its importance in the history of rock music solidifies its place on this list.
Classic Depeche Mode is always good. First time listening to the entire album. Solid, but not my fave from DM, Violator probably holds that spot for me. This one felt more stripped down, maybe less dark?
More sonically consistent perhaps compared to the other one, but goes much bigger and stranger in some places. Harder to identify highlights.
ну хороший альбом, что тут сказать
вкусно
An absolute masterpiece of synthetic pop
Solid album with creative writing. Don’t usually like the 80s super compressed drums with a ton of reverb, but this one was okay.
pornography by the cure but with more synths and less depression. it's a pretty good goth/dark effort but it often falls a bit short and feels shallow. still a really nice listen tho!
depeche mode are part of a category of music i just can't fully get into that i like to call "my dad's band". thankfully, the 80s synths still sound good (im gen z and gen z loves 80s synths)
I dig the new way vibes!
I love Depeche Mode but would probably reach for their greatest hits or something rather than this album. Besides the hit faves "Never Let Me Down Again" and "Strangelove" I liked the song "Little 15".
Am I goth? Why did I like this so much lol found myself really vibing to this
Another from Depeche Mode's classic period. This is some of the best 80s synth pop out there and represented a major development and maturity of their sound. I didn't immediately like this one as much as 'Violator' but it has really grown on me. Fantastic album.
Surprised how much I liked this one; no single song stands out, but consistently good all the way through. 4 stars.
I believe this is my first ever introduction to Depeche Mode. I have heard the group's name before but I don't think I ever got around to listening to them. I really vibed with The Things You Said and Strangelove. The Things You said is my favorite track on the album. I really resonated with it and felt the music and lyrics in my bones. To Have and to Hold is another in this vein. The dark intensity pierces right through the soul and completely envelopes you. I also liked the conversation intro, reminiscint of Pink Floyd's Wish You Were Here. Nothing has a really funky jungle beat and nice little melody. Lyrics weren't exceptional or anything but not bad either. Less intense of a song but definitely a fun groove and an enjoyable listen. Never Let Me Down Again and Behind The Wheel were just okay. I didn't really care for Sacred and Little 15 much. Not really sure why, just a vibes thing. I Want You Now is unnecessarily horny in the cringiest way it possible, which is a shame because the song is excellent minus the lyrics. Pimpf got my anxiety going a bit and was almost frightening- so not my favorite track but id rank it somewhere in the middle because any song that can elicit a visceral response is a work of art in my book. Overall I love the dark, new wave 80s sound and passionate vocals. They remind me a lot of The Smiths who I quite enjoy. I think I'll check out more of their discography in the future based on this listen.
Depeche mode is one of those bands I have been meaning to listen to, I was not disappointed
Not my kind of music, but definitely remarkable.
I liked it. It is dark with a lot of the typical 80s elements.
Ok
Enjoyed this album. Don't remember much of their music but no surprise they were a success. Relaxing.easy to listen to with similarities to Tears for Fears. Definitely groundbreaking for its time. Well done musicianship.
Got to be in the mood for this I think. It's a bit miserable but good. pimpf track really spoils the ending but I think 4 stars ok
pretty good for a 1001 album entry but not depeche mode's best. there are some good tracks here and a lot of darker 80s synth sounds that are kinda goofy in retrospect. definitely not "music for the masses" which I'm certain was their intent, but these other reviews may reflect that. favorites: never let me down again, strangelove, little 15, behind the wheel
I want to give this 3.5 but I’ll round up to 4 because it’s Depeche Mode. Nowhere near as good as Violator though
It’s a good sign when an album doesn’t contain a band’s biggest hits (well, not the ones I was most familiar with anyway) and I still enjoy it this much. A boatload of deliciously gloomy tunes, kept afloat by catchy synth and vocal hooks. It threatens to get a bit samey but interesting left-turns like I Want You Now stop that from happening.
The closest experience that is similar to listening to this album It would be like going into a nightclub inside a gothic church, the dancing and at the same time somber atmosphere gives this feeling, overdose to the sound of synth wave, of a terrible dance in decadence. Throughout the album's journey, going through the most upbeat, dark and experimental songs, the entire lyric revolves around of a love, or rather an obsession, the kind of love that waits for you while watches without been noticed.
I have heard of Depeche Mode of course, but nothing on this album sounded familiar at all, and I couldn't even think of a song of theirs I knew. In 1987 I turned 13 and was mainly listening to hard rock/glam metal over pop, so I would have probably dismissed this anyway. When I listen to it now, I like what I hear. It reminds me of Duran Duran, who I enjoy. There is a good amount of variety which I wasn't expecting. The sometimes monotone vocals didn't really bother me either. One dull song, I think. Good album, I'd listen again.
This was a good listen. It had more songs that I knew then i was expecting.
My favorite of the new wave style albums so far. Lot more variety in the instrumentals and melodies.
A (yet) modern classic.
Never listened to this before. Seems more epic and expansive sounding than their usual stuff. Liked it
I’ve listened to a fair few Depeche Mode albums now, and each one has been enjoyable so I’m expecting the same today. They seem to have found their genre early on and stuck to that through the years without it feeling stale, which is certainly remarkable. Songs I already knew: None Favourites: Never Let Me Down, Strangelove Definitely as expected, this album was catchy synth-pop with moody undertones, just like each other album, and I enjoyed it a fair bit. My only criticism, which is more about the discography in general rather than any particular album, is that if I was played any Depeche Mode song and asked to say which album it was on, I wouldn’t have a clue. Regardless though, I liked this and that’s ultimately the important bit. The synths sound very nice.
Bon album malgré quelques musiques suspectes
mmmmmh étrange
Almost a 5 but the second half is weaker than the first.
It's top heavy but the synth beats are infectious.
Full of great tracks! Standouts: Strangelove, Never Let Me Down Again, Behind the Wheel, Little 15. Others: The Things You Said, Sacred, I Want You Now. 4/5
Little 15 is haunting
Falls off in the second half, but the first half is SO strong. Some of the best music of the 80s in my eyes, driving and engaging.
I love the first half. 3 of the first 4 songs are 10/10 for me. But this album goes downhill at Pimpf. I don't really like the covers on here. Great side A, mediocre side B.
Classic Depeche Mode from freshman year in high school. Album starts strong but fades at the end.
a few great classics but overall a bit disappointing...
Me gustó, se nota mucho que es un álbum de los 80, mucho sintetizador, eco en las voces, pero me parece interesante que creaban un ambiente que parece de película, como transmitiendo emociones con el sonido, por momentos si que quería meter un cambio, pero volvería a escuchar
Incredible album by an even more incredible band
Great 80's synth-pop-rock sound. More instrumentals than I expected. Worth another listen.
Enjoyed this more than I thought I would :) Wasn't expecting Sonata #14 at the end there.
Great album but violator better
A great and classic
Dark, gothic, and moody. Strange pace and transitions, but enjoyed it overall.
LOVED this. I have always liked Depeche Mode but never actually listened to an album. Weird. Glad to pick this one up.
Didn’t expect to like this album. But the more I sat with it, the more I liked it. I generally hate 80s music: Prince, New Order, Talking Heads, the Cure, Blondie… you name it, all shit. I hate 80s music but this is a pretty damn fine album.
I love how they took the idea of new wave and crammed every nook and cranny full of sound – Lush arrangements that fill up my room. It's interesting to me that, while many members of the band aren't gay, their lyrics are universal enough that their work became synonymous with LGBT identity for a time. Their brand of longing and isolation was immediately identifiable to the queer community, that when I looked up their stats a few moments ago, I was genuinely surprised that two of the surviving members of the group are married to women. This is a great album, but would be eclipsed by the astonishingly good Violator a few years later.
Love Strangelove. Feels like all the sounds of Goldeneye put into a dancy melody. Loved the choral intro to Sacred and the driving synthwork on Behind the Wheel. I Want You Now feels like what Alexa would give you if you asked for something to soundtrack a night of S&M play. To Have and To Hold is one of the more minimal here and also one of the best imo. Loved the sampled intro. I enjoyed this one a lot. Production is amazing in quality and the songwriting is phenomenal. Sure it definitely feels like the 80s, but in a well done sort of way. 4 / 5 and will be back for more.
Not as heavy hitter as Violator but damn these guys know how to do the whole gothic 80s sound perfectly. I usually hate the 80s sound but these guys have really made me appreciate it more. The first few songs and definitely Strangelove fucking rock.
I like Depeche Mode. Just not enough
I’m starting to realize just how much I like 80s techno dance music. 4/5
really cool. I really like their music, and its influence can be seen i other artists like NIN
Sounds like Depeche Mode. I like Depeche Mode.
Heard of Depeche Mode, associate them with 80s which I’m quite a fan of! Album described as ‘Rock’ from 1987. Really enjoying so far - high 4/5 so far. Just a good vibe.
Very 80s goth. I was just missing my eyeliner.
Favorite Songs: Little 15 Behind the Wheel Strangelove Pimpf. I really like the sounds and variety of those sounds but I feel like the back half is just not at the same level as the first.
Un bon 4 mérité. J'ai apprécié l'album du début jusqua la fin mais bon le synth et la musique des année 80 est moins pour moi.
It didn’t live up to ‘break the silence’ but it was a still a cool, synthy 80’s time. I liked it! Favourite songs: never let me down again, the things you said, strange love, behind the wheel, I want you now
Never Let Me Down Again Strangelove Nothing
4 stars for what it was when it first came out. Never Let Me Down.
Fav songs -Behind the wheel -The things you said -Nothing -pleasure, little treasure -To have to hold
Quite fun. Why was the moonlight sonata on there
I prefer Violator, but Depeche Mode is one of my favorite bands, and this album has some of their best songs ever recorded Atmospheric, spooky sex music for hot people fav: never let me down
love the instrumentals. not so keen on the vocals though.
Not my personal favorite Depeche Mode album, but it does have a lot of good synthpop on it. Not every song is as good as the last, but the highlights here are really damn good and carry this album to a really good score.
Loved it. Never heard any of these.
Thoroughly enjoyable album. Starts with "Never Let Me Down Again", which is probably the best song on the album. That said, it's not as if there's a sharp dip in quality. Great album.
One of my favorites.
If there's one thing I've learned from this project it's that this I really love the 80s synth pop/goth music. I didn't realize it till now. Loved this album though it did kind of meander and fizzle with the last couple songs.
This is the superior '80s sound. I love new wave, and I especially love dark, brooding new wave. Standouts are Strangelove, Sacred, and To Have and to Hold.
depecheeeeee "I Want You Now" "To Have and To Hold" átváltás szex "Pimpf" ominous
Very nice, ended up listening to Strangelove a couple of times. The instrumentilisation of Depeche Mode is always so cool and ahead of it's time. Most tracks were good but not absolutely groundbreaking though. Overall great album.
This is the first album I got that was from my generation. DM was part of the soundtrack for high school and college. I have a lot of sentimental love for the album. It just resonates with the years I was coming of age. It's hard not to like.
Nice 80's sounding synth pop. All good, but nothing felt too new
eighties without the nostalgia, feels timeless and lots of genres alltogether
Fair amount of vocals for an electronic group
Dark depressing electronic
Synthy goodness
Have this album. Some good tracks. Somewhere between early synth and guitar based Depeche Mode.
Classic synthpop done brilliantly.
Its a good album and depeche mode has kinda a own style. The deluxe was unnecessary for me tbh but its a good album for me
Great atmosphere, unique and powerful
4/5. A solid and weird electronic album. The sampling choices are definitely unique, mostly environmental and ambient sounds just sitting in the background yet they feel the loudest as well. The songs are good as well, which is a plus. I'm a fan of mixing two opposing vibes and creating a discomforting feeling. This is definitely not for everyone, so the title is misleading lol
I wanted to give this five stars but after repeat listens of “I Want You Now”, I have to bring it down. It sticks out for its weak production, especially compared to every other track. Still a great album.
I never liked this band much in high school. I've grown to appreciate them. Their music brings back good memories.
I've always had a soft spot for British New Wave Synth-Pop. Dark and moody, with several tunes that end up living rent free in your head for the next few days. Great album, very enjoyable.
3.5
Depeche Mode's cheekily named "Music for the Masses" is nothing of the sort... It's for the freaks, the goths, the alt kids, the nerds, the weirdos etc. And I freaking love that.
4.0
Pretty good stuff. I knew I would kinda like it, but it was even better than I expected.
Pretty fun album, although with definitely a few misses, and some of the sounds don’t age quite as well. I actually expected to like this more as a fan of a ton of music that is derivative of these guys, but it’s still solid.
Damn good! Standouts: Strangelove, Never Let Me Down Again, Little 15, Behind the Wheel. 4/5
Great
It´s nice, but liked it less than expected. Slow and monotone. This album needs investment and you gotta be in the mood for it. Listened to it 3 times and it get´s better, so gained a star.
A strong record - moody and dramatic and despite the heavy 80s sound it doesn’t get in the way , actually the synth work is quite classy. Not many of the big hits here beside Never Let Me Down but there is no filler here. Also this record can definitely classify as a grower with every listen.
Why is a lackluster rendition of the Moonlight Sonata adagio on here? Who knows! I applaud the bizarre choice. Also, spectacular 80s synth cheese from start to nearly finish.
I wasn’t expecting to enjoy 80s synth music, but it’s unexpectedly catchy.
Loved it
Love the eerie dark vibes and the strong beats. Very 80s in a good way. I don’t know much about Depeche Mode but really enjoyed discovering this band. This album has hints of Kraftwerk and Joy Division. Highlights: the first tracks up to Strangelove. The haunting piano and vocals of Pimpf (sounds like a theme for a video game).
You either like it or you don’t. With Depeche Mode there’s no in-between
If they had halved the number of songs, this could have earned 5 stars. But as it is, I got a bit bored at times.
Never really listen to tecno but this seems like very soft tecno and pretty decent. Not a big fan of very long intros tho
Not my favorite by Depeche Mode, but it's still good. A few songs are more cringe now than they were upon my very first listen to them and some remain the classics that they immediately were. This is a band whose singles I could listen to a lot, but their albums have always been a hard listen for me. I often lose interest somewhere along the way and this one is no exception to that.
Strangelove pezzuneeeeeeeee qui. Bello bello
Adventurous synth-pop that takes enough left turns to not just stand outside the traditional formula but also as a signpost moment in popular music. A high four.
Almost think I preferred this album to Violator. Excellent vocals and great sound overall.
This album has am amazing vibe, dark and chill. Nothing really stands out but it brings something.
Depeche Mode really knows how to inject darkness into synth pop in such a tasty way, but this doesn't quite hit the highs that Violator did for me.
i adore this music for the masses
Listened Before? Y This one I also remember from back in the day. DM are so consistent and good at what they do its amazing. Everyone wants to be like DM. Added to Library? N Songs added to playlist: Never Let Me Down Again
Good!
A brooding synth driven extravaganza. An important influence on Chvrches, so I’m not surprised that I dig this a lot.
Love these moody bastards, the music is so dramatic while remaining fun. Ending the album with Moonlight Sonata also feels over the top but it fits.
heh kasikytlukua... rummun pamputus kaiku kaakossa.. sen takia ei liikaa voi tälle antaa mutta saatanan hyviä pop biisejä(for thr masses heh) ja vähän ulkopuolisempiakin biisejä...loppuun sonata heh artistic...not pretentius..pompus.. pimpf
Erg mooi!
Stom, ik weet dat het goed is maar ik luister dit veel te weinig. Want na het beluisteren vond ik dit toch wel echt heel goed.
100% Depech Mode Ich mag ihre einzigartige Musik, höre sie auch gelegentlich ganz gerne, aber es ist kein Album das ich mir nochmal unbedingt anhören würde.
Solid af, as expected. Not as many standout songs as Violator probably, but I see this one growing on me.
Depeche Mode are not a band that I've ever gotten into, but I have a great respect for them. The 80s brought along a lot of synth, but Depeche made them classy rather than corny. The album is beautiful and mature and interesting, textured but minimalistic. I spent many years thinking I didn't respond to this type of music, but this album is pretty damn good. I owe it some additional listens.
Aged better than I expected, I like the darker DM stuff
Hadn't listened to this album before, I enjoy it much more than I was expecting to!
Tiene a moonligt sonada, 10 de 10. Las demás canciones tan malas, bueno, no es mi estilo de música.
For an 80s new wave, this is one of my favorite
Cool
Dark energetic and hopeful
Very 80s, quite electronic and dark. Drags on a bit at times but was still pretty cool. The "Aggro Mix" of Never Let Me Down Again was cool, with that badass synth that definitely had some influence on modern Synthwave. But that also gets kind of boring after a while, so the normal version wins out. I dunno, it was good, just nothing stood out hugely to me. Favourite: Never Let Me Down Again
listening in the ping pong room in WSH while I work on my post managment night analysis
Didn't mind this at all. 80s sounds done with integrity. Cool new wave energy with awesome synths. You can tell they were pushing the experimentation, but the production is super clean. Alot more atmospheric than I was anticipating as well.
I LOVE Depeche Mode but this isn't my favorite. Some songs didn't age well for me, like Little 15. All in all it is solid.
very good but not my style
really enjoyed it a lot, definite 4.5, could be 5 with more listens.
It's a particular taste which is not an everyday go to for me but I think this is near pinnacle for this kind of moody synth-sample new wave of its era. Pleasing despite the somewhat pretentious lyrics and vocal style.
This album was way ahead of its time, although being electronic and thus sounding futuristic if I wasn’t given the year it was made I wouldn’t be able to tell what decade this was from. Each song was so different instrumentally and sonically it just grabbed me on every track. My only fault with this album is the (official) closing track ‘Pimpf’ which I find pretty boring and repetitive, I think this was a great opportunity to finish the album with something a bit more grand
So self serious. But ahead of its time.
Can't believe I've been missing out on Depeche Mode all these years.
Decent album. I'm still not taken in too far with Depeche Mode, but I think I liked this more than Violator? 3.5/5
Long live Martin Gore. One of the best voices on earth. A-. The main reason I’m leaving the minus is because this is really a trial run for Violator.
Not their best album. But close. And when you're talking DM that's hardly a put down. Lays the path of their journey from s&m flirting synthpop to the arena rock and massive success to come.
Sometimes life is full of big, overwhelming feelings. Depeche Mode works with those big emotions — love and guilt and heartbreak and anxiety — and turn them into dramatic goth club dance floor jams and dreamy, haunted synth pop. They have a distinct style and their songs are affecting. I don’t see myself listening to this a lot but I dig the vibe.
Solid jams. Bobbed my head the whole time.
I liked this
Jeps, det er Depeche Mode :^)
Niche but beloved on their home shores, Depeche Mode have always been uncompromising and distinctive. This album title was meant to be a joke because they never had any intention to change their synthpop broody style to please anyone. And yet ironically this dark and moody album, which deals with far from ‘vanilla’ subjects brought them international renown. In its original 10 track form, it is a welcome cocoon - throbbing, hypnotic and unwilling to release you. A Stockholm syndrome inducing album if you like. The extra tracks on the rereleases seem to fill up space and add nothing to it for me. But as an OG, I am a willing slave to this mesmerising, pulsating cave of dark delights.