The Singles 81>85

by

Depeche Mode

Edit

Beth Bessmer's Amazon review is the first one I've ever read that did not feel like it was written by a real scholar of rock music. This one sounds like it was written by someone who can't like a song if it doesn't have a guitar solo. All her premises are just wrong. Catching Up was an American release, Singles 81-85 British. Catching Up was just what it says--an opportunity for Americans to catch up with them. And the Men from Mode's sense of HUMOR is completely lost on Bessmer. They included negative reviews of their songs because they were _funny,_ not to fend off the specter of "where are they now." Bessmer talks about this compilation like it came out last year--it came out in '85! How could they be lamenting their obscurity at the height of their popularity? Depeche Mode only sounds "dated" to someone who thinks Mtv "alternative" grunge music is timeless. Depeche Mode wasn't "a" synth band, they were THE synth band, and their music from '81 to '85 is still better than about anything made in the last 10 years. 4 stars because this isn't the place to start with DM. Their albums are always better than their singles. Start with Some Great Reward.

Depeche Mode is one of my favorite bands; I don't think I've even gone a full week without listening to VIOLATOR or SONGS OF FAITH AND DEVOTION since acquiring them. They're interesting, creative, philosophical and experimental -- everything I look for in worthwhile music.

Yes, of course, the technology of 81>85 was primitive and today sounds rather cheesy, but other bands (Duran Duran comes to mind) managed to combine synth sounds with excellent songwriting that enhanced the range of New Wave, instead of displaying their synthesizers' limitations.

However, as far as I'm concerned, the DM that began to emerge with SOME GREAT REWARD bears little or no resemblance to the DM of "Just Can't Get Enough", or (God forbid!) "Dreaming of Me". Vince Clarke definitely could write a catchy pop song, but nothing is more annoying than a "catchy pop song". Clarke's departure after SPEAK & SPELL cleared the way for Martin Gore to emerge as one of the premier composers of our times -- it took him a few years to develop, and even SGR is evidence of a work-in-progress. By the time MUSIC FOR THE MASSES came out, the band's transformation was complete.

On the other hand, this album takes you through a whirlwind tour of tremendous growth of talent and message by Martin, Dave, Andy and Alan.

The album's beginning, the annoying teenybop/pop of "Dreaming of Me", "New Life", "Just Can't Get Enough" and "See You" (it's hard to believe it's Dave Gahan's voice on these tracks!) only makes the album's closing tracks that much better.

"Shake the Disease" and "It's Called a Heart" (neither of which were released on albums) are truly fine songs that I hadn't had the privilege to experience until I bought this CD. In particular, I'd recommend purchase of this CD just for "Shake the Disease" alone if it weren't also available as a CD-single.

I rate this album only three stars because it pales in comparison to their later work; but for those interested in history of their favorite bands, it represents a special treat.

Also: I strongly recommend Dave Thompson's book DEPECHE MODE: SOME GREAT REWARD (which I bought here at Amazon.com). Truly enhances the musical experience.