Depeche Mode - Filth or just plain Shit?

You have to remember though, that around the mid-80's, New Order, Depeche Mode and The Cure were the three biggest-selling "alternative" bands from Britain to have any sizeable (post-cult) following in the States. Of the three, The Mode obviously were the biggest by far, followed by The Cure, with the Order in third place.
It's also interesting to relate how these three bands still remain the yardstick by which all other "alternative" (yucky term I know, but I'm using this in a trans-Atlantic context!!) bands from Britain ever since have been gauged success-wise in the US. Let's face it, The Smiths weren't that big in the US outside of the college circuit. And as for the Madchester bands and subsequently Oasis.......what, exactly? The only band since "The Big Three" that seems to have competed and succeeded in challenging their crown in any way are Radiohead. (let's forget about Travis, Monophonics, Muse, Coldplay and all the other plodders for the moment shall we?)

I Love Depeche Mode, because of their versatility...

Although, I did love the post about Fletch and how he does nothing...I usually refer to him as the "Behind the Keyboard dancer..."

Exciter was cool..very ironic title, because the album is pretty mellow..Sweetest Condition, I am you, you are me, and I feel loved are good songs.

Also, they are not a bad band to see live. The best concert series they gave was in support of their songs of faith of devotion; very uplifting.

NewOrder fans, quit dumping on DepecheMode...at one time DM and NO were comparable, but today they are apples and oranges.

fletch is pure comic relief... oh you mean andy fletcher? he's amusing too!

      g.

I saw DM live twice. The first time was during the "world violation tour", in Brussels. The show was perfect, but the sound was crap. The second time was a few weeks ago in Antwerp. Very good show (the whole crowd dancing from the very first song), except for some of the songs they chose to sing: they chose some of their noisyest songs (dead of night, I feel you, etc.) which really cooled down the atmosphere. Also, the sound was too loud. But Dave Gahan still puts the audience into fire.

Regarding their recent recordings, I must say that I really dislike Ultra. Exciter is better, although it lacks some energy. But songs like Freelove and Goodnight Lovers are pure gems. For the rest, Violator is, IMHO, their best album. I also like Black Celebration, essentially because of its numerous beautiful songs performed by Martin.