Cover of Depeche Mode Playing the Angel
AR (Anonima Recensori)

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For fans of depeche mode, lovers of electronic and synthpop music, and listeners craving a return to classic 80s-90s alternative sound.
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THE REVIEW

Someone will rush to read this review because the wait for the grand return of DM is something unbearable. Unfortunately, that someone will be disappointed because in these lines they will find only the first impressions stirred by that magnificent single called "Precious," which precedes the release of an album awaited for 4 years (and considering the outcomes of Exciter, the years become 8).

The first notes of the new work announce a return to the origins, a balanced piece that is at the same time simple and brilliant, where Dave's performance is superb. The track could fit in Black Celebration or in Violator, and we wouldn't notice its actual dating.
I wrote this review simply because on this site there had to be someone who at least gave a nod to the return of DEPECHE MODE, honoring the mysterious charm that still envelops this immortal band and its devotees even after 25 years.

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Summary by Bot

The review welcomes Depeche Mode's highly anticipated album Playing the Angel after a long wait. It highlights the single 'Precious' as a brilliant blend of simplicity and balance, reminiscent of their classic albums Black Celebration and Violator. Dave Gahan’s vocal delivery is praised, and the band’s enduring allure after 25 years is acknowledged. The review serves as a nod to the band’s timeless charm and devoted fanbase.

Tracklist Lyrics Videos

01   A Pain That I'm Used To (04:11)

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02   John the Revelator (03:42)

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04   The Sinner in Me (04:56)

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07   I Want It All (06:09)

08   Nothing's Impossible (04:21)

09   Introspectre (01:42)

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10   Damaged People (03:29)

12   The Darkest Star (06:55)

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Depeche Mode

Depeche Mode are an English electronic music group formed in Basildon in 1980, led by Dave Gahan and Martin Gore. They built a global audience with synth‑based albums and large-scale tours and remain influential in synth‑pop and alternative electronic music.
110 Reviews

Other reviews

By ma3x

 Once the CD was put in the CD player, I shut up (which for some is really an event...).

 It’s rough, dirty just right (probably the hard covers from various Manson types added a bit of spice)...


By Torre Ste

 "The first track must capture the listener’s attention, and this song succeeds completely, marking a return to the golden years of the group’s sound."

 "‘Precious’ is somewhat the new ‘Enjoy The Silence,’ with the same bite, the same melancholy, the same minimalism, yet at the same time as bright as few."


By Boris

 "Playing the Angel seems to be a synthesis of two distinct periods of DM: those of the early ’80s and those of the late ’80s and early ’90s."

 "DM have conceived an album worthy of their best works, capable of synthesizing 25 years of music as only a few bands can do."


By Giordyboy

 "PAIN AND SUFFERING IN VARIOUS TEMPOS" perfectly summarizes the album.

 "Perhaps it’s one of the most beautiful Depeche Mode songs ever."


By slyde81

 Without much astonishment, we move to the following and more convincing John The Revelator, where we magically go back in time, to the periods of Violator or even Music For The Masses.

 This comeback can never be compared to gems like Violator or Songs Of Faith And Devotion, perhaps it’s even a tad below Ultra, but the three survivors still have something to say.


There are 8 reviews of Playing the Angel on DeBaser.
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