Review: Depeche Mode “Playing the Angel” (2005)
Since the 1980’s, I’ve been pretty fond of the music of Depeche Mode. Back then, their music was heavily loaded with synthesizer sounds and became pretty mainstream. This 2005 release, “Playing the Angel” from Depeche Mode is quite a departure from their earlier sound, though the synthesizer element and vocals remain.
Playing time for the album is about 51 minutes. Individual tracks range in length from about 1:42 to 6:09. Most are in the typical 3-4 minute “radio length” range.
For a fan of the 1980’s Depeche Mode, today’s group takes some getting used to. Along with the familiar vocals and synthesizer sound, there’s a new edge to the lyrics and a screaming guitar sound that is a very sharp contrast to the Depeche Mode of 20 years ago. I think I still like the older sound better, but I can appreciate that it sounds “eighties” enough that the band would have a very hard time attracting newer listeners to their music without this modern “grunge” element that is popular in a lot of today’s alternative and hit music. If you’re not familiar with the band’s sound today, this album might be too loud and edgy for your tastes. For me, it’s pushing the limit.