Records runout, different font on labels, different cut on inner sleeve top side A record that summed up a decade for a group, at the time proudly looking back on their music achievements. Judging from their then-back catalogue, now part of the yesteryear 1980-1990, Depeche Mode remain a perfect example of how an independent group endured by growing artistically and commercially, with a team of people around them equally open, enthusiastic and considerate enough to encourage rather than insist on a compromise. The incidental sounds between some of the music numbers add to the predominantly, but tastefully, dark vibe. Sometimes an album comes along and changes things forever. When Depeche Mode's seventh studio album arrived in 1990 a whole 3 years after the colossal 'Music for the Masses' it certainly changed things. It set a new benchmark in electronic pop music - a benchmark that not only critics and fans recognised, but also an impressive number of the moody quartets contemporaries. Its just one of many instances that goes to show the impact this release had. Even with its 26 year old age, it still manages to capture the attention of a diverse range of listeners around the globe. Consider the aching beauty of 'Enjoy the Silence' or the mega-hit 'Personal Jesus'. One single word: R-E-S-P-E-C-T This album for me was the confirmation of my absolute love for electronic-emotional music. Counting how many times I listened to this tape is impossible, but for sure this is the album I listened most of all in my life! Useless to say this record is a must have for all people who love music made with the heart. Is it true that this is an absolutely essential Synthpop masterpiece, but their work before couldn't be considered less than gorgeous. The messages, the vocals, the synths, the atmospheres, everything was special in this long play, though their releases before wouldn't be different, for their older albums are a true legacy. Never would Depeche Mode reach this kind of Synthpop work again, and not only them, it's just like this chef d'oeuvre was the last of a generation, largely played on the clubs, the videos, during school day or in the lonelyness of a smooth night at home.
