Replicas Redux Review

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(More customer reviews)The 30th anniversary re-release of Replicas is a treat, offering the original versions of the album and b-sides from this era, as well as 'early versions' of the same material.
Interestingly, Disc 1 does not include all of the original b-sides, not sure why. It's missing original versions of The Crazies, Only A Downstat, and We Have A Technical, which are available on the previous Beggars Banquet re-issues of the album. Interesting gap. Disc 2, meanwhile, contains early versions of these songs, as well as the other b-sides, in addition to the album. The early versions are a real treat, remastered and crystal clear. Nothing is drastically different, but different enough to be very enjoyable for the fan, with extra instrumentation in some cases, and even more synths. Numan's unique voice is also mixed differently, giving the tracks a different feel.
Numan himself is selling a limited edition of this album through his own website, which contains a third disc of remixes and yet more early versions. That's the version to get as it has the most material for a few bucks more. (It has four additional early versions, and two Renegade Soundwave remixes).
The whole thing holds up remarkably well 30 years later, combining guitars and early synths with Numan's effortless ability to generate hooks and catchy tunes. Inspired by Philip K. Dick novels and sci-fi comic books, Numan was doing his own thing right from the teenage years, and he continues to be influential to legions of artists, yet he still doesn't get the due he deserves. Highly recommended rock album.

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In early 2008 Gary Numan celebrates his 30th year in music and turns 50. To celebrate this, the pioneering electronic album Replicas will be re-issued as Gary Numan & Tubeway Army - Replicas Redux on February 25, 2008. The album includes the breakthrough single 'Are 'Friends' Electric?', which gave Numan his first simultaneous Number 1 single and album when Replicas joined it at the top of the charts a few weeks later. 'Are 'Friends' Electric?' originally charted as a picture disc and Beggars Banquet are promising a very limited edition picture disc of the track plus 'Down In The Park' as the flipside as recognition that both songs have remained influential for three decades. The new Redux re-issue also features for the first time a complete earlier version of the Replicas album recorded in late 1978 and January 1979, along with the original B-sides and further out-takes, adding up to 27 tracks across the two CDs.

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The Innocents - 21st Anniversary Deluxe Edition Review

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(More customer reviews)It's hard to believe, but it has been 21 years since Erasure released their venerable album, The Innocents. It charted in the top 50 in the US, finally bringing the duo of Andy Bell and Vince Clarke into the consciousness of American radio waves. It also happened to be my first Erasure album. I immediately fell in love with Andy's voice and Vince's one-man synth explosion. I rushed out to buy their first two albums, Wonderland and Circus, soon afterwards, as well as every Erasure album since. However, no other album brings me back to those happy days as a young Erasure listener than The Innocents.
CD1 - The Innocents (Remastered)
The 13 tracks on this disc are exactly the same as the original that was released worldwide in the spring of 1988. It only sounds SO much better. They did an excellent job remastering the LP and wow--Andy's voice is so much more vibrant while the music and synthesizers sound more crisp and colorful.
CD2 - B-sides, Remixes, and Rarities (Remastered)
A good selection of b-sides and remixes, along with 4 live tracks, all remastered for our enjoyment. I own most of the mixes and b-sides in one form or another, but I am so happy to get them in a quality remastered version, especially The Unfettered Mix of Chains of Love and the 12" House Mix of A Little Respect. The live tracks are from BBC 'In Concert' from London's Hammersmith Odeon.
DVD - The Innocents Live / The Videos / BBC Performances / MP3 Edition
The *PRIZE* of the Deluxe Edition is the The Innocents Live concert video. OMG. This concert video was not released in North America and was only released as a PAL VHS version overseas. I obtained an NTSC VHS transferred copy as a bootleg a long time ago. I then transferred it myself to DVD but realized that after so many years in storage, there were parts of the VHS that were damaged. Now it's available for us in full digital, audio remixed and remastered glory, along with two songs not available on the original VHS! They've even provided us with the MP3's from the show. Gasp! Finally, there are various TV appearances and the three original promo videos for the album, Ship Of Fools, Chains Of Love and A Little Respect.
I don't imagine anyone but the die-hards will purchase the Deluxe Edition and if you do, you will be richly rewarded. Mute USA released the identical Deluxe Edition, so if you are stateside, you can get the same material without paying the premium for the import. Congratulations to the boys for their success and longevity! I am eagerly awaiting their next studio album, due out in late 2010.

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Includes a bonus CD containing b-sides, remixes, rarities & live performances & a DVD (NTSC Region 0) featuring a live 1989 performance at the Birmingham NEC (with 2 previously unreleased tracks), 3 videos, a selection of TV performances & more.

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Door to Door Review

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(More customer reviews)After all the reviews I've read about this album, I was expecting it to be a total downer. Suprisingly, it isn't, at least to me. There isn't one song on Door To Door that I dislike, and a few of them I really find to be among the band's best. Overall though, it's still the Cars' weakest album. Most of the magic that had surrounded Heartbeat City and their great 1985 single 'Tonight She Comes' (my favorite Cars song) had worn away by 1987. Most of the band members seemed more interested in their solo albums working on Door To Door. It's no wonder they split up after this album. At least it starts out great, with 'Leave or Stay', packed with more of that familiar Ric Ocasek humor and a nice, melodic chorus. After that comes the sole 'hit' on Door To Door, 'You Are The Girl'. A charming song with some of the band's best harmonies, and pretty, trademark keyboard-driven melody. There's still magic here at least. This was the first Door To Door song I'd ever heard, as it was also on The Cars Complete Greatest Hits collection. 'Double Trouble' is good, but not great, though it has a good chorus and driving guitars. 'Fine Line' is one of my favorite Cars songs. Moody, atmospheric, and filled with great lyrics, this has, like 'You Are The Girl', a classic Cars feel. One reviewer dubbed 'Fine Line' as a limp 'Drive' remake, though it's always reminded me more of 'A Dream Away' from the Shake It Up album or 'You Wear Those Eyes' from Panorama. Possible the best song on Door To Door. Then there's 'Everything You Say' which is one of a few of the songs on this album that has a different feel than your average Cars song. It's almost country or rockabilly-ish. I still like it though. Another great chorus. 'Ta Ta Wayo Wayo' is weird and different, but still quite good. Reminds me of Sandinista!-era Clash, sort of. Check out that boogie-woogie piano riff; very weird for a Cars song. 'Strap Me In' is a failed single, which is too bad, since it's a great, classic-feeling Cars rocker. Killer chorus; should've stormed the charts. Killer intro too, very stately and classical. The next song, 'Coming Up You', I really love. It's bordering on soft rock, but I don't care. Can't get enough of that melody and Ben Orr's honey voice. Miss 'im. This was yet another failed single, but I can't get enough listens to it. 'Wound Up On You' is a wonderful ballad, a la 'Why Can't I Have You'. Pretty chorus, filled with soft, subtle hooks. Shoulda been a single. 'Go Away' is more friendly than the title implies, with the narrator imploring his significant other, "why don't we go away?". This one also has a great hook in the chorus, and no matter what people say about this album, the Cars' gift for songcraft and melody still remains intact. The last song on the album, and the last Cars song ever, is the near-punk attack of the title track. This one is a bit of a mess, production-wise, but I guess we all got used to the slickness of Heartbeat City. It's not bad, but coulda been better, just like most of this album. Though I like Door To Door for the most part, I just wish they'd more and better albums after this one. Ah well. Any car can run out of gas.

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Pleasure Principle (Reis) Review

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(More customer reviews)It's amazing how much emotion Gary Numan was able to evoke with an album so dominated by electronic instruments. Numan produced a number of great albums in his heyday (I'm not a big fan of his recent, dark material), but the Pleasure Principle--with its Magritte take-off cover--has best withstood the test of time for me. Replicas comes close, but I think this is Gary at his best.
Cars became a hit here and in the UK, but the rest of the cuts are every bit as strong. And there's a sensitivity on display behind the andriod cool that makes this music far more than the sum of its parts. Couple that with an excellent rhythm section, great keyboard textures, and first-rate arrangements, and you have an album that never seems to wear out its welcome.
Gary Numan's voice can tend to become grating on some of his albums, but not this one.

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Japanese remastered reissue of 1979 album is packaged in a limited edition miniature LP sleeve & includes seven bonus tracks, 'Random' (demo out-take), 'Oceans' (demo out-take), 'Asylum' (`B' side of 'Cars' single), 'Me! I Disconnect From You' (live, `B' side of 'Complex' 12 inch single), 'Bombers' (live, 'B' side of 'Complex' 12 inch single), 'Remember I Was Vapour' (live), & 'On Broadway' (live). Beggars. 2004.--This text refers to an alternate Audio CD edition.

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Of Faith, Power and Glory Review

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It's funny how you can judge a book by it's cover. Or rather album art for that matter. I was really harsh on "Judgement" when it released and it eventually grew on me (still not their best effort). The cover for the new album drew me quickly at the local music haunt. First album by VNV I didn't purchase online since "PTF 2012" (which I stumbled upon @ a Best Buy back when it first released). With a humble heart I pulled off the plastic stuck it in my cd player and was astonished and amazed. Not since "Futureperfect" did I have this stoic grin of a fanboy on my face! The non-assuming intro thrums along with a tolling beat. Almost telling you to stop, listen and know that something great is about to come your way.
Then one of the best songs VNV Nation has done to date hits your ears...
"Sentinal" is a whole-hearted true state of the art VNV creation. It envelopes and soothes and tears apart anything synthpop from the last two years. "Tomorrow Never Comes" has urgency and rhythm and inspiration!
Okay...it is like I am listening to the band I heard when I first put "Praise The Fallen" in my car cd player all those years ago. Ronan and Mark are back with a full lengther that will move you and have you commit some time to their art. "Ghost" is a beautiful and elegant ballad.
"Art Of Conflict" (only 2 of 2 instrumentals total!) instills the energy that tracks in the past like "Lightwave" and "Ascension" did. "In Defiance" could well be the second single for the album. "Verum Aeternus" has lyrics that Ronan should be ever proud of! Some of the most heart looming I have heard since "Further" and "Standing" back in the day. The tagline to my review stems from this amazing track! They end the album with a simple dance-ballad "Where There Is Light" - but it's no somber yawner.
Not since "Empires" have I spinned a disc this many times. I am even playing it at my store while my customers shop! Garnering fans!
Not every album is for everyone. I have been guilty of disregarding an album before giving it true regard as I am sure many of you have. I have been harsh on some albums that people hold dear. So in saying this..."Of Faith, Power and Glory" may not be that record for some of you. But give it the opportunity to grace your ears. It's not one to miss everyone!
Thank you Ronan and Mark for all your hard work at your craft! See you on tour - 28th of July to be exact!

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2009 album from the Irish/English duo. VNV Nation have been frequently described as one of the most unique and passionate musical acts in the world of Alternative music. Of Faith Power & Glory sees the band reach a whole new level musically. More soulful and raw than before, the album is set to be the band's strongest and most profoundly evocative release yet.As with all of VNV Nation's albums, the title describes the album's theme. In this case, it is a commentary on ourselves as individuals or on humanity as a whole. Faith, Power and Glory; three things that, in succession, can bring people to the greatest of heights and achievement, or that can corrupt and destroy.

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Innocents Review

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(More customer reviews)Erasure has always released great singles, with good albums attached, but here they have released an album where every song could stand on its own as a single. Andy Bell's vocals perfectly suit Vince Clarke's gorgeous synthesizer washes and melodic hooks.
Side one is anchored by "Chains of Love," a superb dance-floor evocation of gay life in the city. From the wistful, half-spoken opening line, "How can I explain / When there are few words I can choose?" the song takes off into a pounding synthesizer beat that can keep the listener dancing until the end. Also particularly effective on side one are the dance number "A Little Respect" and the pop-oriented "Heart of Stone." The preachy, socially-oriented "Hallowed Ground" is saved by a great melody.
Side two has a grab-bag of interesting songs, from the off-beat rhythm of "Witch in the Ditch" to the soulful "Weight of the World." "Yahoo!" may be the best dance song, with it's gospel-type shout-along chorus. In addition, side two has a heart-breaking, haunting song, the bonus track "When I Needed You." The difference in quality and musicality between this stunning track and any other Erasure ballad is unbelievable. Finally, if Erasure's version of "River Deep-Mountain High" does not work as well as Tina Turner's, as so many critics have carped, how many bands or singers could possibly render a song as well as Ms. Turner? To their credit, Erasure did not try a straight cover of the song, instead adding synthesizer flourishes to create a more dance-oriented song.
The Erasure fan most likely already owns this album. The novice Erasure listener would find this the best place to start. Just about every song would find its rightful place on an Erasure greatest hits album.

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No Description AvailableNo Track Information AvailableMedia Type: CDArtist: ERASURETitle: INNOCENTSStreet Release Date: 05/24/1988

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Sounds of the Universe (2 LPs/CD) Review

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(More customer reviews)When a band has been around for close to thirty years and is still making music, it probably means one of three things: 1) they're trying to recreate the past, or 2) they're trying to do something very different, or 3) they're recombining elements of their catalogue to make something kind of new and kind of familiar. Sounds of the Universe falls into that last category.
The latest Depeche Mode album features thirteen tracks, all of them using early-eighties synthesizers with no apologies. At times, these tracks sound like they could have been made in 1984, using the melodic sophistication of Some Great Reward and the sonic textures of A Broken Frame. Sounds of the Universe bleeps and thumps and hisses with a seemingly primitive array of manufactured noises in a way that only deep fans of, say, Orbital, Autechre, Kraftwerk, or early Nine Inch Nails can really appreciate.
But to dismiss this album because of its Atari arcade sound effects would be a mistake. For one thing, Sounds is not strictly a throwback in the sense that many of the songs use an actual guitar to great effect, which would have been unthinkable to the band in its earliest years. "Wrong," for example, owes as much to the twang of "Personal Jesus" as it does to the robotic drone of early Depeche Mode dirges such as "Photographic." The same applies to "Fragile Tension" and "Come Back," and even "The Truth Is/Miles Away" and "Perfect" use guitar strategically to great effect, something that never would have happened before Music for the Masses at the earliest.
But even the songs which rely completely on a synthetic sound don't suffer as a consequence. "Little Soul" and "Jezebel" may not be for everyone, with their Exciter-era tempos and "mature" feel (which some would argue is the death knell for any band)--yet they work well for anyone who has enjoyed the quieter moments of past albums. If you're looking for a faster track, "In Sympathy" is probably the best on the album, with its sunny intro and a bridge that delves into a melancholy club-thump, and "In Chains" continues a long tradition of kinky songs with single potential while still remaining true to the album's subtexts of justice and fairness.
Admittedly there are some questionable decisions in the making of Sounds of the Universe, such as predictable rhymes and the campiness of Dave briefly dipping into an Elvis Presley impression as he croons "The Truth Is/Miles Away." And "Peace" is a little embarrassing in its sincerity. But when in the band's career have Dave and Martin sounded so good as vocalists?
Part of me wishes for the return of rock opera masterpieces such as "Enjoy the Silence," and any legitimate DM fan will probably agree that Violator was either the band's best album or a serious contender for the title. However, that is not going to happen, because that sound is inextricably tied to departed band member Alan Wilder and Flood, Violator's producer. As a trio, Depeche Mode are still making very good, if not great, music--and if you can square yourself with that reality, you may find yourself listening to this "grower" of an album for quite some time.

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The CD+DVD set includes "Sounds of the Universe" + the album mixed in 5.1 surround sound, the promo video for Wrong, Sounds Of The Universe - A Short Film and remixes of three new songs.--This text refers to the Audio CD edition.

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Pet Shop Boys: Cubism in Concert (2007) Review

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(More customer reviews)All I can say is that Neil and Chris still have it going on even after twenty plus years. I saw them three times on the Fundamental tour and nothing gets me going more than the electricity and excitement of seeing the boys live. That is until I watched the Cubism DVD. Neil's vocals are just as vibrant as ever. This isn't just a concert DVD. It's a musical event with the backing vocals of Andy Love, Nic Clows and Ms. Sylvia Mason James. The choreography of Hakeem Onibudo and the fantastic dancers, Nathan Holliday and Ivan "Swan" Blackstock are cool. Those guys rock! And of course the show wouldn't have been complete without the man behind the curtain, Pete Gleadall.
The sound quality on this DVD is fantastic in the DTS 5.1 Surround Sound or Dolby 5.1 which puts you right in the middle of the audience. The letterbox video is crisp and sharp. This is by far the best Pet Shop Boys video or maybe the best live concert I have seen. The extras on the disc are interviews and commentary about the boys from the fans and also Neil and Chris.

The songs they chose were quite balanced among the years. There are songs featured from their Fundamental album as well as what I would call Pet Shop Boys standards. There isn't a bad tune or a bad performance of any song. They are still quite the entertainers.

This is one concert DVD you will want to watch over and over.
PS. Hi Neil! ;o)


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1. Psycho Intro 2. God Willing 3. Psychological 4. Left To My Own Devices 5. I'm With Stupid 6. Suburbia 7. Can You Forgive Her? 8. Minimal 9. Shopping 10. Rent 11. Dreaming Of The Queen 12. Heart 13. Opportunities (Let s Make LotsOf Money) 14. Integral 15. Numb 16, Se A Vide E (That s The Way Life Is) 17, Domino Dancing 18, Flamboyant 19. Home And Dry 20. Always On My Mind 21. Where The Streets Have No Name 22. West End Girls 23. The Sodom And Gomorrah Show 24. So Hard 25. It's A Sin 26. Go WestExtras:8-minute behind-the-scenes documentaryPhoto GalleryAudio commentary with Neil Tennant, Chris Lowe and the director, David Barnard.

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Playing the Angel Review

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(More customer reviews)It was not an incredibly difficult feat for DM to surpass the ironically-titled (yet underrated in my opinion) Exciter, but little did we know that they would surpass most of our expectations to this degree. This album rocks. Overall, it's their darkest album yet, especially following the somewhat sweet and tender mood of Exciter.
I don't normally do this, but here's a track by track:
1) "A Pain That I'm Used To" - A great intro track with definite NIN influence. Soft, dark, electronic beats that explode into a cacophony of loud guitars at the chorus. I heard this is going to be the second single.
2) "John The Revelator" - Influenced by a classic gospel track of the same name, this would have fit beautifully on Songs of Faith & Devotion. A heavy electro beat with Dave's preachy, aggressive vocals and a gospel choir that joins in at the chorus. My immediate favorite. I really hope this one becomes a single.
3) "Suffer Well" - The first of three songs written by Dave Gahan instead of Martin Gore (a first for DM). More than worthy of the Depeche Mode moniker, this is another favorite of mine. It's fast and catchy and very reminiscent of old-school pre-Violator DM. Reminds me of "Behind The Wheel."
4) "The Sinner In Me" - Another NIN-esque track. Dark and moody. Awesome synth line. I love it.
5) "Precious" - The first single. Also reminiscent of older DM - a very catchy song with a nice beat, a cool guitar part, and Dave's smooth vocals. For some reason I like this song a lot better within the context of the whole album. A very worthy first single. Many are saying it's one of the best singles of their career. I can't argue with that.
6) "Macro" - The first of the obligatory Martin Gore ballads. This is actually one of my favorites of his. The verses are kind of odd (which is typical of Gore), but I absolutely love the chorus ("see the microcosm in macrovision / our bodies moving with pure precision / one universal celebration / one evolution, one creation"). Severely underrated.
7) "I Want It All" - The next of the Gahan-penned tracks. It's strange and floaty and quite different from a typical DM song, but really good nonetheless. The beat is similar to Bjork's "All Is Full of Love" (which is one of my favorite songs, by the way).
8) "Nothing's Impossible" - The last of the Gahan-penned tracks, and definitely my least favorite of the three. It has an old-school feel, but Dave's vocals are a bit odd and monotone. It's not one of my favorites, but it's grown on me significantly and now I like it quite a bit.
9) "Introspectre" - A creepy little instrumental interlude. Could have been pulled right off of Radiohead's Kid A. There's not much to it. Eerie sound effects among minimal electronics.
10) "Damaged People" - The other Gore ballad. Slow, slightly creepy circus music with Gore's odd vocals. This has grown on me a lot, too, but is definitely one of the weakest tracks.
11) "Lilian" - An awesome, retro-sounding, fast-paced, catchy song about some spoiled, sadistic woman who likes to break hearts for fun. The sound is not stereotypical of DM, though, and I can't put a finger on why.
12) "The Darkest Star" - Another somewhat creepy slow song that's probably the darkest on the album. I didn't care much for it at first, but now I love it.
Since the release of Ultra, it's been my favorite DM album (even though many fans disliked it for some reason), followed very closely by Violator and Songs of Faith & Devotion. Critics keep saying Playing The Angel is their best since Violator. I really think, though, that it has risen up to possibly be their greatest masterpiece yet. Only time will tell if I feel the same way down the road, but right now that's where I stand.

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The first new album from Depeche Mode in four years, its first since 2001's gold and Top 10 Exciter, Playing The Angel is quintessential Depeche Mode-hi-tech electronic pop with enormous hooks and yet faster paced, more urgent than recent albums. The band has sold upward of 50 million records worldwide during its 25 years, but Playing The Angel sounds as fresh and exciting as any in Depeche Mode's glorious history

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Some Great Reward Review

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(More customer reviews)'some great reward' is perhaps depeche mode's funniest album title. as the band inched closer and closer to the global domination that would one day be theirs, one can help but wonder if a be-skirted martin looked at sun-in'd-bangs dave and said, 'is this all we get?' or maybe it's the bands nod to its increasing fanbase, or a middle-finger to those who thought there were going to get another mildly poppy, pleasant, inoffensive DM album (though it started with 'construction time again, let's face it, this was the death knell of the 'photograph of you,' 'see you,' 'new life,' 'just can't get enough' dm brand of music).
no, no, dear friends, this wasn't your daddy's dm. suddenly martin was clad in s&m gear, handcuffs, leather (or was it pleather?), dave put a little sun-in in his hair, alan was a full-feldged member, and fletch, well, he was fletch (pushing his mic back and forth on stage and little else). 'some great reward,' i believe, was the blueprint for albums like 'pretty hate machine,' everything nitzer ebb did do, front 242 would do, and spawned a generation of knock offs (red flag, seven red seven, cause and effect). 'industrial' music? it started with 'some great reward.'
'some great reward' is the album that came to define the depeche mode *sound.* it's cold and detached, it's pervy undertones bubbling just below the surface. from the get-go 'some great reward' sounds like an album recorded squarely under the fist of the iron curtain. 'something to do' sounds like heavy machinery dropped off a 100ft ledge--agressive and relentless. 'lie to me' and 'if you want' drip in ambiguous sexuality. of course there's 'master and servant' and it's fairly blatant s&m references and 'blasphemous rumors' in which martin (?) questions God's role in every day life. i'll forgive martin for 'somebody'--a song so sweet it should by right come packaged with a tube of toothpaste and mouthwash.
'some great reward' pointed DM in a new direction they would later build on with 'black celebration,' 'music for the masses,' and culminate with 'violator.' in this regard it serves as an important stepping stone in the band's evolution--it was a precursor to the defining DM sound. perhaps that reason alone is enough to merit buying this album. and if that reason's not enough, it's still got some KILLER songs, truly memorable singles, and just enough dark matter to keep the trenchcoat kids and enough catchy melodies and verses to keep the preppy polo-wearing goofs happy.

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No Description AvailableNo Track Information AvailableMedia Type: CDArtist: DEPECHE MODETitle: SOME GREAT REWARDStreet Release Date: 07/07/1987

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Black Celebration Review

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(More customer reviews)Black Celebration represents many things for Depeche Mode. Sonically, we're looking at an evolution of their synthesized, sampled, semi-industrial pop sound -- a little less tinny than Some Great Reward. Lyrically and thematically, what we have is a full realization of the bleakness DM had been flirting with on songs like "Blasphemous Rumours," "Love, in Itself," and "Shake the Disease." This is important because it is the final, complete break with the cheerier sound associated with early Depeche Mode albums, and a transformation into the greatest band to emerge from the 1980s.
The title track sets the tone for the album very effectively, using a thick layer of menacing bass under twinkling melodic keynotes. "Black Celebration" is not quite as dark as most of the other songs on this album; but maybe it's really just that it is a declaration of the need to hang onto whatever happiness we can in the face of all-encompassing misery. A perfect opening to a near-perfect album.
The eerie underlying synth of the first track evolves into the backdrop for the second: "Fly on the Windscreen." This is DM at their gloomiest; a pummeling bass underpins the need for human contact as a reminder that there is such a thing as life.
"A Question of Lust" begins a hat trick of delicate songs sung by Martin Gore. It's an earnest, airy tale of the needless suspicion of jealousy in a relationship that probably won't last. A shimmering, sad ballad in an album of despair, yet a nice bounce-back from "Windscreen."
"Sometimes," the next song, is I believe very underrated -- I've seen someone deride it as an ersatz "Somebody," which is really not at all accurate. It employs only Martin's voice, echoed in a strange fashion, over a lazy, very pretty piano piece. A short and sad little number that fits the album without question.
The next track is "It Doesn't Matter Two" (to be distinguished from "It Doesn't Matter" on SGW). I like this song for its use of a choral sample, manipulated almost beyond recognition, as its main rhythm. Martin sings of lost sexual innocence here, his voice lending a requisite fragility that Dave Gahan's would not.
Dave resumes a lead singing role on "A Question of Time," with a fast synth beat picking up the pace. I did not like this song much at first, but in the concert version, Martin whacks a guitar to replace the kazoo-like effect of the synth found here - a definite improvement.
"Stripped" is the centerpiece of BC. Fragile synth keynotes convey a shared, secret sensuality, while a constant backing hum coats everything in sweaty pheromones. The muffled rhythm of a train drives the song from start to finish. Altogether an addictively beautiful song about the search for intimacy in a bleak, black, filthy, distant world.
From the escapism without in "Stripped," we turn to escapism within in "Here is the House." Acoustic guitar is used well here against a barely danceable beat, creating one of the more obscure, underappreciated DM songs.
Martin's last lead singing role is "World Full of Nothing," an account of loveless sex as told from an omniscient, third-party perspective. Haunting, especially with the repeated "Though it's not love, it means something."
"Dressed in Black" is the weakest song on BC. It seems to redeem every tidy cliche about mods that has ever been thrown at them, and consequently feels trite. It should have traded places with one of the B-sides, "Christmas Island."
What follows is the pounding, trenchant bass of "New Dress," a political statement about the stupid things society values as important. A very cool song as relevant today as it was in 1986.
Black Celebration closes with "But Not Tonight" - as upbeat as any song gets on this album, though it does not feel out of place. It is carried by a fast beat and just a hint of optimism in the darkness. A fitting final chapter in DM's darkest tome.
If you like 80s music at all, buy this album. If you like 80s music and were raised on Moby, NIN, or Orbital, DEFINITELY buy this album. You will be glad you did.

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Import edition of Depeche Mode's outstanding 1986 album featuring two bonus tracks NOT on the U.S., 'Breathing In Fumes' & 'Black Day', plus the extended remix of 'But Not Tonight'instead of the album version that appears on the American release. 14 tracks total, also featuring the hit singles 'Stripped', 'A Question Of Lust' and 'A Question Of Time'. EMI.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

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Violator Review

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When Violator hit the US, I was already a die-hard Depeche Mode fan, owning every album they had put out. However, with Violator, I gained an even deeper appreciation for their writing skills, both lyrically and orchestrally. Violator is an amazing piece of euro-alt-dance-pop that has a huge dance floor appeal while at the same time makes one think and feel. Hugely successful, Violator was one of those releases that crossed over from long-time fans to a new generation and audience.
The release starts in classic DM synth dance mode with the funky and "trip"-worthy "World in My Eyes." Released as a single, this sensual piece filled dance floors across the country. The remix single is especially appealing with not only great remixes of this song, but also two other non-album tracks, "Happiest Girl" and "Sea of Sin." [The remix cassette contains the bonus Dub In My Eyes Mix!] Turning darker and slower, "Sweetest Perfection" has a depth and dangerous beauty in its lyrics and orchestration that pull you deeper within yourself as you let the music flow over you. "Personal Jesus" is a the floor stomping first single released off Violator that was a smash hit on and off the dance floor with its country twang flare, driving drum beat hooks, and anthemic lyrics like "reach out and touch faith." The remix single for this one is especially awesome and features the phenomenal non-album track "Dangerous," one of the best b-sides DM ever released. "Halo" is an amazing song and is probably my favorite on the release. With bass, synth, and orchestral hooks that blow my mind, this masterpiece builds into an emotional catharsis that is released by its audience dancing and singing along wildly by the end. This, I believe, was released as a single only in the UK (it's a very hard to find release) - this easily could have been the fifth smash hit from Violator. Returning to ballad mode, "Waiting for the Night to Fall" is soft, ethereal, and again hauntingly beautiful. You just want to curl up in the dark and enjoy the beauty of solitude with this one. Get ready to hit the dance floor again; "Enjoy the Silence" was the second single and was an absolute smash with its awesome beat, orchestration, and yell along chorus. The remix single had 6 mixes and included the awesome instrumental non-album tracks, "Sibeling" and "Memphisto." [The cassette remix contains the bonus The Quad: Final Mix!] I especially loved the video which was predominantly deep blue (I love blue videos) and features Dave Gahan wandering through the English countryside as (I believe) King Richard. "Policy of Truth" was another single, though it didn't quite see the success of the others. The remix single contains the bonus "Kaleid" (a very funky techno instrumental). With an interesting guitar and ambient intro, the song soon moves into a groovy guitar and synth driven twanger that is quite sultry and seductive - definite dirty dancin' kinda music. Still sultry but much slower and more subdued, "Blue Dress" is a beautifully crafted piece of depth and emotion that sounds almost obsessive and compulsive. This somewhat short release comes to a close with "Clean" which continues the slower theme. However, it is much darker and hazy feeling, and it has a sultry pulsating rhythm throughout that pulls you closer inside yourself.
For me, Violator is the best DM album, and one of the best alterno-euro-techno albums ever released. It gets a strong 5 star rating and falls within my top 20 releases of all time. Not only is the album amazing in its danceability and its depth of emotion, but the additional pieces that went with marketing this piece (the remix singles and videos) were equally impressive. The remix singles were especially awesome, featuring not only killer remixes, but also a plethora of unreleased material that could have filled another album!
I recommend this album highly to any DM fan, late 80s/early 90s club music fan, or anyone who simply loves good synth beat music that can make you both dance and feel. Don't let the fact that the releae only has 9 songs bother you - there isn't a single song on this release that is less than perfect. Oh, and a bonus recommendation: if you couldn't tell, get all the remix singles you can from this one - they're worth having!
Some would perhaps argue that Violator was the point at which Depeche Mode sold out. It was a huge commercial success, spawning 4 hit singles (5 if you count the rare "Halo") that filled dance floors and concert venues all over the world. However, I call it justice and recognition due. Violator is a crowning achievement for Depeche Mode's brilliant lyrical and orchestral composition talents. Accessible to all with brilliant pieces of poetry, addictive dance beats and techno hooks, and beautifully crafted videos, Violator achieved a bonding between old die-hard fans and fans new to the group, a rare feat to accomplish in the complicated world of (at least then) "alternative" music.

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Import remastered pressing of Violator which is Depeche Mode's most mainstream, chart-climbing album. Although it contains only nine tracks, half of them are tailor-made for the dance floor. This album was conceived when dance-club DJs were gaining recognition alongside original composers. Heavily influenced by techno-pop, the singles 'Policy of Truth', 'Enjoy the Silence', and 'World in My Eyes' prove that DM did their homework. A particular highlight on this fantastic album is the bluesy guitar line Martin Gore lays down on top of the synth-dominated grooves on 'Personal Jesus'. Mute. 2006.--This text refers to an alternate Audio CD edition.

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She Blinded Me with Science/Tour De France Review

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(More customer reviews)This CD has "She Blinded Me With Science," but it's the album version, and it's definately NOT live. Don't waste your money. I wish I hadn't.

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Peaceful Tour Deluxe Edition Review

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(More customer reviews)The interesting aspect to this live CD is how it was engineered to make the music the focus and not so much the concert. So although you can hear the crowds the songs themselves retain a studio feel. This is good because all of these classics have been taken back to the drawing board and reworked. And believe me it is fabulous!
"Conditioning" starts off with this guitar rift and rock sound that made me think "oh no! the wrong CD came in the package!". But don't fear because the recognizable synth enters and the new version is so fresh and cool!
"New Song" comes in a bit more reflective with a slowed down pace that matches Howard's ability to be serious and fun!
Neat little scratching and crowd chanting too!
"Like to Get to Know you Well" has the synth matching with some softer percusion and electric guitar. This version is incredible! As usual on this song and "What is Love" Howard allows some time for the audience to sing in!
"Collective Heartbeat" is an instrumental trancy techno number which seems perfect for Howard's oeurve. Although techno I believe I hear guitar that I am assuming is real!
"Hide and Seek" here samples a little from the orchestral version making this song more haunting and meaningful. An allegory that has become a longtime fan favorite to discuss over late night coffee.
"All I Want" is really changed here! More synthy with some piano accents and pulsing beat. Excellent!
"Hunt the Self" has vintage synth sounds, guitar, and Howard declaring "the world is my hunting ground". The guitar adds grit to high charge declaration! "The feeling is strong!"
"Let the People Have their Say" seems to saunter out of the synth and guitar with Howard's vocal taking control. An excellent number from the PEOPLE album!
"You Know I love you" is a hi NRG stomp techno version of the 1987 hit!! Try keeping up with this!!
"Things Can only Get Better" starts out with actual album version playing and then Howard and co. take over. Casual vocal delivery of this great song!!
"What Is Love" starts out ultraslow as if to tease the audience and listenters! Then this beat comes in rides along the song speeding it up! Howard always sounds amazing singing this song!
"Everlasting Love" and "No One is to Blame" are two bonus studio remakes that are increidble!!
If you love Howard then PLEASE treat yourself to these great remakes and live show!

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