Depeche Mode

Depeche Mode are undoubtedly one of Britain’s most successful musical exports. Formed in Essex in 1980, the band which then consisted of, David Gahan (vocals), Martin Gore (guitar), Andrew Fletcher (Keyboard) and Vince Clarke, have sold over 73 million albums worldwide and had 44 singles inside the Top 40 of the UK Music Charts.

After signing to Mute records in 1980, the band released their debut album, ‘Speak and Spell,’ in 1981. The immediate success of the album forced Clarke - the bands chief songwriter - out the band because he was uncomfortable with the level of attention the band had achieved in such a short time.

The band didn’t hang about when Clarke left and released, ‘A Broken Frame,’ in 1982 with just the remaining three contributing to the sophomore effort. The album saw Gore take over the song writing duties and, following its release, Alan Wilder – a temporary member – was given full time privileges.

Throughout their early albums of the 80’s, most of the bands success was contained within Europe, and while they achieved considerable public notoriety, the band were often treated with an iron fist by the UK media because of their popular appeal.

In the mid 80’s the bands began to feature on a number of American compilations, which helped them to gain a foothold in the US market. To build on their attention, the band released, ‘Music For The Masses,’ which was followed by a world tour - which included an 80,000 sell out concert in the Pasadena Rose Bowl.

As the 80’s drew to a close Depeche Mode’s status continued to explode. Most notably in America, where an in store signing celebrating the release of the 19991 album, ‘Violator,’ attracted 17,000 screaming fans. At last count the album had gone triple-platinum. After touring the album relentlessly the band still managed to release their most successful album so far, ‘Songs of Faith and Devotion,’ just two years later, in 1993. The album reached number one both sides of the Atlantic.

Despite their formidable success, Depeche Mode’s inability to maintain its line-up has always been a problem. In 1995, Alan Wilder – who had been Clarke’s replacement – decided he had had enough of the band. Like the previous departure, the band didn’t hang about and released another number one smash hit album, ‘Ultra,’ a year later. They have never bothered to find a replacement for Wilder.

After a quite period by the bands standards, they returned in 2001 with, ‘Exciter.’ While the album failed to achieve the heights of past successes it did spawn ‘I Feel Loved,’ which was remixed by  the DJ, Danny Tenaglia. The songs swirling, hypnotic charm soon became as club favourite.

With the gaps between studio albums growing longer and longer, the band finally released, ‘Playing The Angel,’ in 2005. The album received considerable critical acclaim, and proved just how commanding Depeche Mode’s status still was.