Thank you again very much VG 🥰😍🤩 You were once again too Top of the Top 🙏🙏😱🙀🤗😉❤️♥️ You are still the best 📺🎹🎧🎤👌👍💪🥳😉❤️❤️ Never change anything and even Great !!! 😱🤗🥰😍
Vaughn.....ohhhh myyy gerd just as you said about "he has no chance to interview us...etc" I was JUST writing that thought, haha. Worried legit NOW cuz you deserve to interview them. YES ... metronomic...that is the word that describes all too much plus the over saturation of Mr. Gahan's vocals in all too many songs. He he he - - - omg 'that' beginning to video mate!!!! I am here for it ALL !
Thank you for a brilliant video. I feel we are being ripped off as fans. I have bought every release, compilation and special edition. The last album that I enjoy from beginning to end was Songs of faith and devotion, I have had to revisit the albums there after to find something to enjoy, and have failed. The same applies for the live shows. Dave seems to be impersonating Mick Jagger, there is no variotion in his tone or voice. Hopefully we find less R&B or weird failed experimental showboating and just good music. Great channel.
Same here and I also liked "the meaning of love". As someone who loved DM and stopped following after Ultra it seems I did not miss a lot from the looks of this video
I like 116 Depeche Mode songs (yes, I counted). There is no surprise that Vaughn's list is virtually all from _Sounds of the Universe, Delta Machine, and Spirit._ I didn't care for most of _Exciter_ either. But I am quite pleased again with _Memento Mori_ though.
Alan wasn't just a good musician, not just a very good sound designer, not just a hardworking studio "worker"... he was an "instrument" in and of itself, and that's missing. It's significant when songs from the late 80s, early 90s sound better than current stuff...
@@Zontar82 Ultra and Violator are at the moment my most liked albums, but it can change because they are so good, Exiter and Sounds Of The Universe was their last albums I bought. I was 13 in 1983, and got Construction time again so have grown up with them. I feel a little guilty that I like Ultra so much because Alan was not involved
For me, DM died soon after Alan Wilder left. The band is night and day different from what they were with him, and the difference is not good in any way.
It's Called A Heart is one of my favorite DM singles. Sure, trite lyrics. But the moody, catchy synth riffs and drones encapsulate so much of what I love about that 84-86 period. The extended version is fantastic. As supremely talented as Martin and Dave are... they are kinda rudderless without Alan in the production department. They managed to squeak by with Ultra but after that the loss of Alan spelled the loss of DM for me.
IMO, Playing the Angel is a great album, and I like it overall more than Ultra, but those are the only 2 albums post Alan where I liked the majority of the albums and not just one song.
@@aliwantizu indeed PLAYING THE ANGEL be better than Memento Mori...after the departure of Alan...My fav late songs are hush hush....one is haunting me, THE DARKEST STAR, on the whole I agree with the sélection of this excellent young reviewer who is sensible, respectful and educated...I hate " scum"... greetings from France 😊
To me the most infuriating thing about later Depeche Mode is the fact, that they kept some of the best songs off the albums. Better Days, Newborn, Light, Happens All The Time, All That's Mine, Always were all released as bonus tracks and b-sides, yet they are WAY better than some of the songs that ended up on the main albums, like those mentioned in this video.
Funny thing is that Sounds of the Universe was a rather meh album (like Spirit) but if you made your own CD including the bonus tracks, it suddenly becomes somewhat decent.
That's why I made my own playlists for each of the more recent albums, with some album tracks out and non-album tracks in, no more than 12 songs per album. This way I got some really REALLY very good albums!
I totally agree I think that above all there is a big concern for the production of the latest albums and the choice of songs because indeed we find the nuggets on the B-SIDES!!
Ultra 1997 was the last very good album to me thanks to Tim and his team and martins continued good songwriting. PTA was less but still good 75% The rest of the albums since have been only good in pieces . Still love them like most hardcore fans
“According to sound engineer Ben Hillier, Gore called Andy Fletcher to sing Lilian over the phone to him. At the time, the former was apparently drunk and throwing pasta at a tree while he sung it.” Lilian makes be smile ever since.
Wait... what??? Throwing pasta at a tree? I've heard of cooks throwing pasta on the wall to see if it will stick to tell if it's done, but a tree??? WTF??? 🤣
I quite like Hole To Feed. The sparse feel of the track and rhythm works for me. Hard for me to take it out of context of the time and it seemed like a solid idea back then but there's been a lot of the same sort of stuff since and DM have become a rather tired band. I hope things improve next time but I suspect not.
We need a favorite and least favorite track from each album next👍🏼 I think Depeche Mode’s problem is that they are constantly overthinking ways to reinvent themselves and their sound, but they don’t realize that fans that prefer their heyday (majority) want to hear that magic. The melody, the unique brilliance and beautifully tortured vocals. It really goes to show where Alan contributed. Although much of Recoil’s stuff isn’t too terribly incredible, I’d like to think Alan has some songs in the chamber that he’s been sitting on for years, waiting on whether or not to rejoin.. It’s sad that Martin and Dave have just become Gene Simmons-like. I can’t stand people who say “Depeche Mode have been more successful without Alan” as if their success isn’t predicated and built on their 80s/early 90s material lol
I agree. Also it's hilarious how all the old 80s electronic artists are trying to reinvent themselves for a "newer, fresher sound" when the the 80s sound has literally come back and in fact is fresher than the poppy miserably "commercial" stuff they're thinking is fresh. Respectfully, it's like they're just waking up one day, bored and suddenly decide to publicly piss all over their legacies. It's happened to every single 80s artist and I think it's because the 80s has never happened before so the musicians and their managers don't really know what to do. I just hope DM's upcoming album has a more up-to-date producer and their manager(s) and stuff wake up a bit.
The only reason why that is said is because they have been able to endure without him for a longer period of time. Alan was with them for roughly 15 years. Yet, they have worked without him for almost 30. They did great in their own right and proved that they could stand on their feet without him on Ultra, Exciter, & Playing The Angel and have continued on, even with the passing of "Founding Titan Member" Andy Fletcher. Do I wish Alan would come back, YOU BET YOUR AZZ I DO. But, I surely DON'T count DM out without him.😁
It’s the problem Rush had, “what radical change can we do this record?” Finally the Foos producer got ahold of them the last 2 & said “shut up and be Rush”.
Lilian is such a great song, every small little detail well crafted, it puts a million images in my head, I just wonder why people take music SO seriously 🙆🏻 I’m saying this as a music producer myself.
Lillian is actually the song that made little 14 year old me look up Depeche Mode and listen to Playing the angel. And then I liked it so much it made me listen to their whole discography billions of times!
I love "so much love". Has a lot of energy; I love how the distortion is on her voice. They are opinions, all valid. It is worth clarifying that So much love does not belong to Delta machine. That song is on the great Spirit album. I miss that confusion.
I personally would take Lillian out of your list, but hole to feed is a good shout for “ the worst” .. not surprised a few spirit tracks on list as that definitely worst album. Knew b4 I watched this there be nothing from music for the masses be on the list as it one of the best albums ever period 🙂
"Don't focus on the gear, focus on the Song!" That sums up brilliantly, why so many newer DM songs suck. Sounding like demos for modular and analog Synths, without having any emotional impact.
“Where was the quality control!” 😂 Vaughn, the quality control WAS Alan Wilder! I actually agree with your dissection and opinion on each of these songs. Although I would have added or chosen other songs over some of these if I was only making a list of 10 myself. And I loath soft touch raw nerve and would have chose that over hole to feed. Other songs to mention I dislike: What’s your name Monument Satellite It doesn’t matter Comatose John the revelator Macro
I can't stand Delta Machine and Spirit. Though, I do like "Always" and "Happens All The Time" from the Delta bonus disc. They totally redeemed themselves with the brilliant "Memento Mori". Their best since Ultra. In my opinion of course.... :)
At risk of stating the obvious but with regard to 23:22: Alan Wilder surely was very much the quality control of DM. In addition to being the primary architect of their soundscapes, the arranger extraordinaire, co-producer, backing live vocalist, one-time tour drummer, occasional studio bassist, occasional song writer, etc. His influence on the quality was probably both direct and indirect. His direct impact is well documented, but the indirect influence on the quality was no doubt via his overall musicianship and work ethic. The others were clearly aware that he was the superior musician in the band, and therefore they had to raise their own games. Without Alan, all of this was gone, and each of these roles had to be replaced in some way. Most of the time, it was not done in a successful way, unfortunately.
I agree with some of what he says. Delta Machine and Spirit were of no interest to me - a life long fan. Memento Mori was a major return to form. Thank goodness.
Jeez, the ones that get me are "The Dead of Night", which destroyed Exciter. And "Just Can't Get Enough", because when it gets into my head it segues into "Baby Shark".
Hey Vaughn. Absolutely spot on. Today Depeche Mode songs are mainly hookline orientated and one dimensional without depth. In the old days we enjoyed leadmelodies, countermelodies combined with brillant vocal melodies packed in a beautiful dynamic, layered arrangement thanks to Alan. Shake the Disease, Sun and the Rainfall, Walking in my Shoes and the list goes on and on and on.
Alan is that missing ingredient, however they are capable of reaching that level without him. Home, Sister of Night and Wrong are examples for me that embody what the DM sound is and those were done post-alan. I think the last album albums to have that feel are Ultra and Playing the Angel.
It’s quite simple : since Alan left…. You can see the difference. The other day I saw Dave say that some people lived in the past ; yes Dave because it’s just where you were the best.
I always said that I prefer "A Broken Frame" instead of "post Ultra" albums. DM is not DM since Alan left. It´s time to admit it. In adition, Anton go home, come back Brian with your great sleeves!
Am I the only one who loves It's Called a Heart 😂😂😂? Ok, lyrics are a little bit bluff but melody is kind of cool, and the synthetiser solo coming to the end is also great.
I used to hate It's called a heart in the 80's, really, from the bottom of my heart. Then I heard that crazy funky cover from Didascalis few years ago and it was like a revelation. Oh, how wrong I was - it's definitely one of the best dance tracks DM ever recorded, a true diamond. This is probably the only DM song where I can imagine a mosh pit could be formed (There's a lot to be learned...)!
Hey you lovely man, i thankyou for your your honesty, thank goodness we are not all the same, god how boring that would be. There are always going to be good songs and bad songs, but thankfully we all love DM regardless. I for one am glad your here to bring up these things. Hugs n happiness xxx
Team Vaughn! 😁 It's so weird to be a DM fan from the 80s and realise I have only liked few tracks since Exciter (which was already a bit of a disapointment!); But hey, I will never thanks them enough for the doors they have opened in my life and love them to death! 🤩
I feel the exact same way. I only listen to Speak all the way to Ultra because of how DM it is. It’s so funny how Ultra actually sounds like Alan is playing on that album. My heart breaks when I think he’s been out of the band for almost 30 years 😢
@@rubaidaallen2764 I guess Wilder's shadow was still a bit on Ultra. And as a music producer/composer (Synthwave/Synthpop), I can only but admire Martin for the amount of amazing and moving melodies he as been able to provide us! Perhaps inspiration is like a spring that can run dry?! I suppose every artist has his "momentum"?!
It does seem strange how such a prolific hit-making machine suddenly stopped in 1998. After 17 years of 100s of classic songs pre-2000; and then only 1 catchy song post-2000 -- Precious. (IMO.)
@@neilsun2521 I suppose no artist can maintain such a high artistical quality level for decades! I'm a bit less negative 🙂: Yes, yes "Precious", absolutely, "Wrong" was something and I really like the black & white studio version music video of "Broken" (better than the album version in my opinion), "South my soul" was catchy and I liked Dave's high notes experiments in "Should be higher".
@Nell Sun One of the reasons why Alan gives about leaving. Any pop/rock/ band after 20 years are not as vital/ cannot sustain - Neil Tennant calls this ,' the purple period '. Solo/ marginal ' cult' artists are more able to sustain. Cheers.
You left off "In Sympathy" (I think it's on Sounds of the Universe). I hate that song--it has this glamorous top-40 sound to it, and the lyrics sound like something from a " you go girl" commentary. Maybe that wasn't Martin's intention, but "Your wise, your tough, you've heard them long enough . . . " It sounds like a cosmetics add about trying a new mascara.
I agree with some of the songs like poorman. You have a lot of songs of Delta Mashine and Spirit. I even sort of like Hole to feed and Lilian. My least favourite albums are Playing the Angel and Sounds of the Universe. Martin sounds like he is crying while he sings, like Macro. I‘m missing the melodies at all. They have some great songs on them like Wrong and Precious. With Delta Mashine came at least some melodies back and I didn‘t push the forward bottom. Memento Mori is great again accept of My Cosmos is mine. When I hear the album, I start with Wagging Tongue. But this is my opinion and tastes are different.
Ha. This might be your best video yet. I had to look up all these songs. I used to know all the ins and outs of every DM song until I gave up on them on July 30, 2001 when the string of great songs ended. I remember the day vividly. I was a big Bomb The Bass fan, so Ultra got a pass, never mind that there are some great songs on there. I was even a big LFO fan from my rave days, so Exciter I looked forward to with anticipation, and "Dream On" was really good. But then on July 30, 2001 came "I Feel Loved". That was the end. In an instant. Never came back other than "Suffer Well". That's it. Done. "It's Called A Heart" was classic DM. The CD single was pure DM cannon goodness. Even "Meaning Of Love" is actually a really good song, quite complex, classic DM interlocking melodies, great verse, refrain at the end and close, just has those awful lyrics and cheesy synth-strings/bells/horns throughout; a good stripped-down re-mix would put a new spin on it and take it off people's list.
ok, major areas of disagreement: hole to feed and Lilian are amazing. Dead of Night is quite nice. It's called a heart is cute. Soft touch raw nerve is decent enough. Secret to end is average.
I think that "You move" is quite intersting because of its missing 16note in the beat. So this one is the only exception from this list for me. Otherwise I agree with you.
Your review highlights why I've lost that magical feeling of anticipation when a new DM track is released. It's very telling that all in your list are from Exciter onwards. The rot had well and truly set in by then. Recently I saw Dave in an interview, visibly irritated by the question of whether Alan might come back. It's over then.
Effettivamente hai ragione! La vera "poesia" forse è finita nel '97 con Ultra ma dal 1980 al 1997 di capolavori ne abbiamo visti! Comunque W i Depeche Mode ! Sempre!
Dave was just like look that ship has sailed ok? Get over it. I agree. Alan made his decision to leave and we have to respect that. My friends and I were in total shock and still are saddened by his departure to this day, but he wanted out and we have to respect that. Do I want him to come back for at least one more album and tour? Absolutely! But it looks like that not going to happen sadly.
@@rubaidaallen2764 The man could changed his mind over the years, but it looks like no one is going to ask him back. And let's be honest: Dave's visible irrigation had nothing to do with willing to respect Alan's decision
I saw that! I thought he came off as quite rude seeing as that girl seemed sweet and innocent. (But I assume he gets asked that question a lot; and it's hard to be polite when repeating same answer every day.)
I say this as a HUGE Depeche Mode fan, my favorite band of all time by far... The last 3 albums were horrible, I didn't even buy the new one because I knew it would be more of the same (and I was right) add to this the death of fletch, and Gahan's voice being completely shot for years now... I'm afraid it's time for them to hang it up.
Vaughn, what I respect about you is that unlike so many others out there, you take the time to explain why you dislike something, while still acknowledging what redeeming qualities it may have. I love "The Dead of Night", but I always saw it as the "quirky" song of Exciter with its somewhat silly lyrics. The first time I heard "Peace", I thought it was a throwback to early DM, like something off A Broken Frame. I think the track would have been a lot better if Martin had done the vocals. I wonder, would you ever consider doing a 10 Least Favorite from the Wilder era someday? Or a top 10 favorite from the modern era? Surely you must have them.
Bless you my friend and thank you ! I'm glad you realise that I try hard to be balanced and provide reasons for my opinions. Your suggestion for a "least favourite songs - Wilder era is a good idea ! Just to let you know , I've just launched a new Depeche RUclips Channel called "Depeche Mode Hub" . Be sure to check it out and subscribe! Thanks ! VG 🎹👍😎
People Are People is ruined by the "you and I should get along so awfully" lyric. I like the rest of the song but wish they'd used a different lyric than "awfully".
03:01 So much love 05:22 Poorman 08:00 Fail 09:12 Lilian 11:15 Corrupt 14:21 Soft Touch / Raw Nerve 16:43 Secret To The End (I DISAGREEEEE) 18:53 You Move (I DISAGREE) 20:49 My Little Universe (IT'S ONE OF MY FAVOURITE) 24:08 (Honorable mentions) 28:19 Hole To Feed (I STRONGLY DISAGREE. IT'S UNDERRATED AND THE RADIO VERSION IS JUST PERFECT. IT'S A GREAT POP SONG)
Remember the days when DM would produce a B-side and you would ask over and over again why it wasn't included on the main album, since it was simply a wonderful song? What Vaughn just did was voicing what all old DM fans have been thinking about the last 4 albums. They all have lacked someone in the recording room saying "NO. This will NOT go into the album or on any B-side for that matter. Give it to your daughter/son to experiment with it and let's find something that's actually worth putting in an album." My only complaint is about It's called a heart. I've always liked that song, a lot.
It´s almost like every once great band. They start, develop, get to their best and then it goes down. Slower or faster. Like everything in life. It´s born, it grows and blooms, and then it withers and....
Well Vaughn George, you've done it. It's 3AM, and I can't get those m-f'ing drums of "Hole to Feed" out of my head. If it wasn't my least favorite DM song, it's about to be.
Thank you soooo much! I really enjoyed watching your Depeche Mode tops as well as flops two weeks ago. Memento Mori really made me return to mad fandom. 🩶 The fun thing about your flop list: While I never was a big listener of Spirit or Delta Machine (achieved their total playback count with Memento Mori in a single day), you made me return to these albums. And let's say, especially Delta Machine (incl. bonus tracks) is growing on me quite a bit. So thanks for bringing me closer to these albums!
Great video. I love hearing your opinions. After listening to all of the songs you mentioned, what I realized is that even a "bad" Depeche song is still a good one. Thank you for all your hard work. 🙂
Things I've noticed: - SOTU, Delta Machine (Demo Machine in your case), Spirit are a complete blackbox to you. Do you own these albums on cd/vinyl? If so do you ever give those records a re-listen? - Lilian B-Side? With all respect Vaugh I thought you liked Playing The Angel, I have my doubts after watching this/hearing that. - Not an single Exciter track on this list? I'm probably in 'Comatose'.... The in-depth album review will be an intresting rollercoaster ride after Ultra. You'll probably spent just 1 quick episode on Exciter, unfair.
Actually I am a big fan of the new stuff. But this is quite entertaining 😂 I always didn’t understand the “hype” about PTA. it has quite some good songs. But for me the last two albums are way better. Not counting MM.
Awesome video Vaughn. Your Depeche tastes are very similar to mine. You're correct the sonic vibe has gone. Once Wilder left, they have been in decline. Still can't believe they managed to create the awesome Ultra without him, and all the shit they were going through personally. But the rot began with Exciter. Still had some sonic sugar on some tracks but something started to change within them from then on. The good news for the band is their current direction/style does appeal to new and old fans, so we'll just have to suck it up buttercup. We at least have a tonne of fabulous songs to enjoy until the end of our days.
If you listen to the demos of some of their famous songs, they sound very similar to the finished product. I don't know why people give alan so much credit whereas martin gore does all the creative work.
I love musical debates. Take this list - three of these are in my Top 70 of all time. 'So Much Love', 'Poor Man' and 'My Little Universe' and 'Lillian' is also a classic. But what do I know. 'In My Room' is easily in my Top 10 worst DM songs, a dreary dirge - very much "just a drone" in the same way Vaughn thinks "Corrupt is". I don't get this constant criticism of recent albums sounding like demo's. Nothing sounded as underproduced as SOFAD!!! An album, by the way, that Melody Maker infamously titled 'Synthetic For the People' as they slated it, unfavourably comparing it to 'Automatic For the People'. I was outraged!! And then listened to it and realised they had a good point, i.e. my least favourite album. Sadly, I think there's a group of fans who both resent Wilder leaving and not having SOFAD Part 2 - this has meant that their view of the band will always be skewed to talking about the 'good old days'. Vaughan falls into this category. Let's face it, the only way that songs like 'Boys Say Go', 'What's Your Name' and 'Told You So' and (seriously) about three off SOFAD don't make it onto the list, is because of some romantic desperation to hold on to the past. Whilst no-one is ever going to argue that their 'Black Celebration' to 'Violator' spell, wasn't their best - for me 'Angel', 'Spirit' and now 'MM' are as good as them on average. People just need to accept that they're a different band and have moved with technological times. I'm dreading at what's in your Top 10. Off to watch, now!!
The Dead of Night is one of my favourite on Exciter. And My Little Universe is one of my favourite on Delta Machine. I really like this straight-line synthesizer on this song. But yeah, I hate Hole to Feed! Especially combined with the Video! I still can’t believe DM approved this video! But at the same time, I think Wrong (from the same album) is one of the best ever DM songs and video!
Agreed. The Dead of Night it’s pure synth and beats and I love it when things are done “rough”. My Little Universe it’s a hidden gem: pure experimental electronic. And I love that.
I really needed a video like this, thank you . Here is my top of the songs that I like least from this overrated band that I have as a profile photo, ops: 10. Wrong (why is it so popular? ) 9. Ice Machine 8. One Caress (the only one I omit from SOFAD) 7. Lie to me 6. Painkiller 5. Freelove (it's too boring and tasteless) 4.Something to Do 3. It's Called a Heart 2. Somebody 1. I Want You Now
Hi Vaughn, greetings from Chile. Yeah, i agree with you. The last two albums (specially Spirit) they sound like demos. I know Alan said once that Martin will be happy releasing his songs just like they are, bared and without any production. Another thing about the drums. Are you note that all the snares sound like clap?. There's no more powerfull snares anymore like those of the golden days, like Never Let Me Down Again, Stripped, If You Want, and a lot of songs. I think you understand what I mean. It's really so sad.
Congrats on the 30k subs Vaughn, impressive milestone 🙂👍 Let's celebrate it by listening to your all time favorite DM track: Hole To Feed. Jokes aside, well done my friend. Keep it up with the quality content! Here's to 50k! 🍻
i think the magical word you said sir about "layering" is whats lost of them after Alan left, no need for apologies - its you own clear and honest opinion and that you mentioned is what there 3 succeeding album to stagnant to my taste...thanks for sharing your in depth ideas and analysis brutally deconstructed, but sincerely delivered.
I couldn't even remember some of the tracks you've mentioned here, Vaughn. It's not that I HATE them, I just don't come back to them after a three or four attempts to actually love them, and it really touched me that you did just the same.
Delta machine isn't my favourite depeche album period. I actually enjoyed wrong, can relate to the lyrics. SOFAD is a masterpiece 😍 Alan was ledgendry, yes. Was devised when Fletch died 😭
Absolutely true about the generic production on the recent albums. Back in the day, even though Dan Miller produced three albums in a row, they all sounded completely different to each other.
I cant name songs from albums since about Ultra. The last 3 have been pretty abysmal. I used to go to DM concerts everytime they had a new album, sometimes to multiple shows the whole time they were in town, and now I havent gone since the last 3. I only went to one 4 albums ago to see if they'd play the oldies...cuz that's all I like from them. It pains me because my circle of friends know DM is my ultimate fave band because their 80's to mid 90's songs were during my formative years, musically-speaking.
Finally a good podcast! I totally agree with what you said.....all the last 4 albums, MMori included, are made in the same factory, same effects, same dramatic depressive voice....very boring and minimalistic, it is like the demos were left as they were....
I got into the band a couple years ago, the last three albums are the only ones where I listened from start to finish twice. Going back to re-listen to these songs definitely made me relate to groggy Alan and reminded me why I haven’t really revisited those albums. These have some combos of unnecessary distortion, brick-walled, very monotonous drums, some first draft vibes to name a few.
Hey man, as an occasional viewer I’ve often raised an eyebrow (or both) over your reviews and comments, while a ‘hmmmmmm’ escapes. On this occasion I totally, TOTALLY agree - 100%, 10 for 10 - on your Worst list. If anything your 5 notables were more controversial to me (It’s Called A Heart raising the eyebrow). But here, I’m with you all the way. The list is a mishmash of the most non-deserving, ignoble, mis-firing tracks ever to populate any Depeche Mode albums. And the list concentrates on the ‘era’ from SOTU to now (I’d add an update to this and add the entirety of Memento Mori TBH). Thanks for confirming my own views. Oh, add almost all of Exciter too, yeah?
You're welcome and thank you ! You are of course always free to disagree with me. A lot of people agree with my views and a lot of people also don't and that is fine. But you can be rest assured that I speak my and I try my best to articulate my thoughts. Cheers and thank you. VG
Great video Vaughn, I laughed my ass off at the "Great cornholioooooo" bit :D. And I can see why "Alan is not impressed" either, LOL...🙄 I pretty much agree with your list, and I might add that there is another thing that DM songs have lost over the years, a thing that I call their "frenchiness", what I mean is that nostalgic, melodic aspect in songs resembling to those songs in old 70's french movies, for example "Little 15", "Dressed in Black", "Things You Said", "It doesn't Matter Two", "Here is the House", etc... It would be nice to have those kinds of songs back on the "Demento Memori" new album... Anyway, I loved your video, thanks Vaughn, cheers!
There is a distinct difference between A Broken Frame and Construction Time Again, and then from Songs of Faith and Devotion to Ultra, and it’s the same key piece. In my opinion, they’ve only been able to keep going for last 30 years because of what they built with Alan Wilder. If he hadn’t joined them, they probably would have fizzled out in late 80’s.
Absolutely. Once they allowed him to have input, his work ethic in the studio saved the band and ensured they’d have a long lasting career. Pity the three self centred original members didn’t appreciate that.
Watching this video was good but you made me laugh so much with the video edits at the end to introduce #1... LMFAOF!!! i had to see the intro to it like three times because i was laughing so hard at it... Thanks For Making me laugh.... I'm Dead LMAO
Totally agree about "Hole to Feed." I went out to the toilet during that track at the O2 on the SOTU tour... and it was only the second track! My wife said when I came back: "Hmmm... Not my favourite track."
I watched this video, Sir. Thank you for all the positive things you also mention here. I always liked "Corrupt" and I think it is a cool triplet. They use the melody technique from the bridge of "Corrupt" also on the bridge of "Where's The Revolution". I have been with you from the start and I still am. Stay positive. -Andy Ry Denmark.
Great video Vaughn. I appreciate your honesty and agree with most of your list. Side note, I thought So Much Love was on the Spirit album, not Delta Machine?
This whole video was completely hilarious. Oh my god this was great. The sound quality isn’t as good as it was. I miss the old Depeche Mode. I love the side cut to Alan Wilder. Thank you Vaughn 😊.
Great video, really enjoyed the format/production! Totally agree in terms of the sound of the recent albums (with a few songs as the exceptions).. ...but am I the only one who likes "the Meaning of Love"? I enjoy it as a 80's novelty :)
@@FrankieTeardrop1998 "Meaning Of Love" could have been a really good song, just some bad choices were made in production IMO. And the lyrics could have been presented a little tongue in cheek but instead they went ooey gooey doughy earnest. Anyway, I dislike "Love In Itself" more.
Thank u cuz this taught me what not to do as a song writer. BTW, you got me rediscovering them I love your top 10 best. I love the new album too. Thank you 😊
The 3 albums before Memento Mori are an absolute disgrace. A trifecta of bs. First time I didn't buy their cds. Even Anton's artwork is just plain lazy. Like he just pulled them out of a dusty cupboard forgotten about for years. Waited 20 years for a half decent album in MM but still has a slight stink left over from the previous 3. Saw them 3 times on their current tour with Berlin being the standout.
This is one of the greatest videos you’ve ever released. And I agree with you on all of it. You could wish the last three albums into oblivion and I wouldn’t miss a damn thing. Maybe Wrong and Heaven I’d keep and that’s it. I do think The Sweetest Condition is worse than The Dead of Night. But they’re like two sides of the same coin. LOL Thank you for putting this out. It was fun. LOL
I more or less agree with your opinion VG, but I don't dislike So much love and Lilian, but It's true that Lilian's lyrics is a little bit childish. I very rarely listen to SOTU, I think I haven't listened to it since many years. And I don't really miss it. I listen to Delta Machine 1-2 times a year (a few songs of it more times), and Spirit maximum once a year, except Cover Me because I regard it as a small diamond among Spirit's tracks. I think there could be collection in a complete album from the post Ultra era of good songs of Exciter, PTA, SOTU, Delta Machine and Spirit. 10-12 songs from these albums would make one album in a level of albums in pre PTA era.
I totally agree with Vaughn...One of the reason we love this band is that there were absolutely no bad songs in their albums (and even the b-sides were fantastic) Now I struggle to find songs I like in the last fourth albums...And I worry a lot about the forthcoming one 😐 Nothing compares their chef d'oeuvres...
By chance are you one of the people that hate everything post Alan because you can’t get over the fact he left because mori is very good, spirit not so much I don’t like it but then I will not accept this hate for delta machine and sounds if the universe they are amazing especially universe
Agree about Dead of Night. Although it received something of a saving grace through it being promoted as the opening number on the Exciter tour. Dave's entry onto the stage was as magical as always.
Speak and Spell is hard for me to really like - I appreciate it as part of the history, but I rarely listen to it. Most recent albums aren’t Violator, SOFAD or even Music for the Masses, but they still have some great tracks. With DM I can listen to whole albums; with any other decent group/band, I can maybe listen to 3 out of 12 tracks.
It's insteresting that the DM fandom hates Delta so much. I like Delta Machine more than Spirit or SOTU. I also really like Exciter, more than the S&S or a Broken Frame. I like when they to some more interesting experiments. Delta Machine has its problems, but I also think that it had some really interesting electonic experimentalism going on.
@@hatzegopteryx.sounds3637 lm joking of course, but I watched DM live twice in 2017 and no Delta Machine track was performed. For me, it’s not the songs it’s the way it was produced / arranged that disappoints.
This was pretty funny. Alot of it was also true. I think every band reaches their peak at some point and then just continue on making albums with 1-2-3 good songs. It's not just DM it's also U2, Coldplay, The Cure... so many. I think our expectations for Depeche are too high. I thought playing the angel had some solid songs. I actually really like going backwards. I'm just grateful they are still around and I hope that on the new one there is are at least 1-2 good songs. Yes it's frustrating because as a big fan I would love to give them advice on how a new album should sound and how in recent years the live set is so predictable.. why not start really big! Open with Never let me down??, Enjoy the silence? Play People are people / Dangerous... something obscure? Fingers crossed for Momento Mori! Peace and love to all here from Australia.
Vaughn, at last somebody has had the balls to say this!! I'm glad it is someone who is highly respected too. Respect for you for doing it. To be fair you could have picked any 10 tracks from the last 3 albums so have bo problems with the ones you have chosen. It's just a shame you won't get a chance to interview DM now as if they see this they will take great offence. In reality they can't see it themselves and face facts. Peace is still at No-1 for me though purely based on the fact that they had the cheek to release it as a single!!! How can you go from Enjoy The Silence to Peace in under 20 years. Anyway, Well done. Great video.
I was honestly surprised by Hole To Feed being the bottom one. I 100% agree, that the video is awful, but it has a catchy rhythm, that makes me dance on the chair. It is actually one of my favorite songs from SOTU. Having said that, i like the fact that the majority of the songs were from the last 3 albums. Let's hope that Memento Mori is more than a excuse for a tour, that they have found their way once again.
The "hole to feed" bit was fuckin hilarious. Thank you for that Vaughn. Totally agree on most of your list especially my little universe and raw nerve / soft touch. They can't all be winners can they ....
I fully agree and I was laughing through tears during your video. Unfortunately, I can't create my 10 worst DM songs because since Exciter it is long list, and I can't even list them because I do not remember the names of songs. Simply, I do not listen albums from Exciter because quality is poor, too much far away from what they did before. As said several times, DM without Alan is just DEMO mode.
Counting down my 10 least favourite Depeche Mode songs of all time.
Thank you again very much VG 🥰😍🤩 You were once again too Top of the Top 🙏🙏😱🙀🤗😉❤️♥️ You are still the best 📺🎹🎧🎤👌👍💪🥳😉❤️❤️ Never change anything and even Great !!! 😱🤗🥰😍
Vaughn.....ohhhh myyy gerd just as you said about "he has no chance to interview us...etc" I was JUST writing that thought, haha. Worried legit NOW cuz you deserve to interview them. YES ... metronomic...that is the word that describes all too much plus the over saturation of Mr. Gahan's vocals in all too many songs.
He he he - - - omg 'that' beginning to video mate!!!! I am here for it ALL !
So much love is on spirit not on delta machine
@@and.y.draven242 Yep. It how's how little I care. They all sound the same, VG :-)
Thank you for a brilliant video. I feel we are being ripped off as fans. I have bought every release, compilation and special edition. The last album that I enjoy from beginning to end was Songs of faith and devotion, I have had to revisit the albums there after to find something to enjoy, and have failed. The same applies for the live shows. Dave seems to be impersonating Mick Jagger, there is no variotion in his tone or voice. Hopefully we find less R&B or weird failed experimental showboating and just good music.
Great channel.
I always liked "it's called a heart" :)
Same here and I also liked "the meaning of love". As someone who loved DM and stopped following after Ultra it seems I did not miss a lot from the looks of this video
I like 116 Depeche Mode songs (yes, I counted). There is no surprise that Vaughn's list is virtually all from _Sounds of the Universe, Delta Machine, and Spirit._ I didn't care for most of _Exciter_ either. But I am quite pleased again with _Memento Mori_ though.
Alan wasn't just a good musician, not just a very good sound designer, not just a hardworking studio "worker"... he was an "instrument" in and of itself, and that's missing. It's significant when songs from the late 80s, early 90s sound better than current stuff...
@@Zontar82 Ultra and Violator are at the moment my most liked albums, but it can change because they are so good, Exiter and Sounds Of The Universe was their last albums I bought. I was 13 in 1983, and got Construction time again so have grown up with them. I feel a little guilty that I like Ultra so much because Alan was not involved
@@rodney9409 Exciter** not Exiter
@@Danimal77 Hi , English is my second language, and I struggle to type, age are catching up with me etc, I try to check my spelling.
Martin and Dave should bring Alan back
For me, DM died soon after Alan Wilder left. The band is night and day different from what they were with him, and the difference is not good in any way.
It's Called A Heart is one of my favorite DM singles. Sure, trite lyrics. But the moody, catchy synth riffs and drones encapsulate so much of what I love about that 84-86 period. The extended version is fantastic.
As supremely talented as Martin and Dave are... they are kinda rudderless without Alan in the production department. They managed to squeak by with Ultra but after that the loss of Alan spelled the loss of DM for me.
You are absolutely right Matt! VG
IMO, Playing the Angel is a great album, and I like it overall more than Ultra, but those are the only 2 albums post Alan where I liked the majority of the albums and not just one song.
@@aliwantizu indeed PLAYING THE ANGEL be better than Memento Mori...after the departure of Alan...My fav late songs are hush hush....one is haunting me, THE DARKEST STAR, on the whole I agree with the sélection of this excellent young reviewer who is sensible, respectful and educated...I hate " scum"... greetings from France 😊
It's called a heart is a great track for sure.
"rudderless without Alan in the production" - 100%, @mattpoe7178
To me the most infuriating thing about later Depeche Mode is the fact, that they kept some of the best songs off the albums. Better Days, Newborn, Light, Happens All The Time, All That's Mine, Always were all released as bonus tracks and b-sides, yet they are WAY better than some of the songs that ended up on the main albums, like those mentioned in this video.
I love the song light and better days and ghost. Really great songs that should have been on the main albums. What a shame it wasn’t.
Funny thing is that Sounds of the Universe was a rather meh album (like Spirit) but if you made your own CD including the bonus tracks, it suddenly becomes somewhat decent.
That's why I made my own playlists for each of the more recent albums, with some album tracks out and non-album tracks in, no more than 12 songs per album. This way I got some really REALLY very good albums!
That's one of things that was always awesome about DM, drove the singles B-side and 12" market.
I totally agree I think that above all there is a big concern for the production of the latest albums and the choice of songs because indeed we find the nuggets on the B-SIDES!!
‘It’s called a heart’ is far better than almost all of the songs of last albums, sorry to say
I can t agree more with you from France 🇫🇷. Bye bye devotee ❤
It's not
You're right
Uh, no. 😂
The extended mix is awesome.
Ultra 1997 was the last very good album to me thanks to Tim and his team and martins continued good songwriting. PTA was less but still good 75%
The rest of the albums since have been only good in pieces . Still love them like most hardcore fans
It's frustrating to see how a band so decent in distant times is now an ugly thing that lives on past glories and cringes.
“According to sound engineer Ben Hillier, Gore called Andy Fletcher to sing Lilian over the phone to him. At the time, the former was apparently drunk and throwing pasta at a tree while he sung it.” Lilian makes be smile ever since.
I like Lilian. Especially when I'm a bit drunk, which ... after your comment makes (even) more sense. :)
That's hilarious 😂
Wait... what??? Throwing pasta at a tree? I've heard of cooks throwing pasta on the wall to see if it will stick to tell if it's done, but a tree??? WTF??? 🤣
Ok that’s funny and great lol
I like lilian ❤
I quite like Hole To Feed. The sparse feel of the track and rhythm works for me. Hard for me to take it out of context of the time and it seemed like a solid idea back then but there's been a lot of the same sort of stuff since and DM have become a rather tired band. I hope things improve next time but I suspect not.
We need a favorite and least favorite track from each album next👍🏼 I think Depeche Mode’s problem is that they are constantly overthinking ways to reinvent themselves and their sound, but they don’t realize that fans that prefer their heyday (majority) want to hear that magic. The melody, the unique brilliance and beautifully tortured vocals. It really goes to show where Alan contributed. Although much of Recoil’s stuff isn’t too terribly incredible, I’d like to think Alan has some songs in the chamber that he’s been sitting on for years, waiting on whether or not to rejoin..
It’s sad that Martin and Dave have just become Gene Simmons-like.
I can’t stand people who say “Depeche Mode have been more successful without Alan” as if their success isn’t predicated and built on their 80s/early 90s material lol
I agree. Also it's hilarious how all the old 80s electronic artists are trying to reinvent themselves for a "newer, fresher sound" when the the 80s sound has literally come back and in fact is fresher than the poppy miserably "commercial" stuff they're thinking is fresh. Respectfully, it's like they're just waking up one day, bored and suddenly decide to publicly piss all over their legacies.
It's happened to every single 80s artist and I think it's because the 80s has never happened before so the musicians and their managers don't really know what to do. I just hope DM's upcoming album has a more up-to-date producer and their manager(s) and stuff wake up a bit.
The only reason why that is said is because they have been able to endure without him for a longer period of time. Alan was with them for roughly 15 years. Yet, they have worked without him for almost 30. They did great in their own right and proved that they could stand on their feet without him on Ultra, Exciter, & Playing The Angel and have continued on, even with the passing of "Founding Titan Member" Andy Fletcher. Do I wish Alan would come back, YOU BET YOUR AZZ I DO. But, I surely DON'T count DM out without him.😁
It’s the problem Rush had, “what radical change can we do this record?” Finally the Foos producer got ahold of them the last 2 & said “shut up and be Rush”.
Al parecer, Martin sabe que las canciones actuales son mediocres XDDDDD lo ha dicho en un par de ocasiones.
Lilian is such a great song, every small little detail well crafted, it puts a million images in my head, I just wonder why people take music SO seriously 🙆🏻 I’m saying this as a music producer myself.
Lillian is actually the song that made little 14 year old me look up Depeche Mode and listen to Playing the angel. And then I liked it so much it made me listen to their whole discography billions of times!
I love "so much love". Has a lot of energy; I love how the distortion is on her voice. They are opinions, all valid. It is worth clarifying that So much love does not belong to Delta machine. That song is on the great Spirit album. I miss that confusion.
'So much love' is the only song on Spirit worthy of a mention and easily one of very few highlights on the last tour.
I totally agree. SO MUCH LOVE for me personally is one of their best tracks since 2000.
Best song of Spirit indeed, not of Delta Machine.
I personally would take Lillian out of your list, but hole to feed is a good shout for “ the worst” .. not surprised a few spirit tracks on list as that definitely worst album. Knew b4 I watched this there be nothing from music for the masses be on the list as it one of the best albums ever period 🙂
It’s a brutal song. Energized, groovy, distorted, it has it all.
"Don't focus on the gear, focus on the Song!" That sums up brilliantly, why so many newer DM songs suck. Sounding like demos for modular and analog Synths, without having any emotional impact.
You got it Frank!! VG :-)
“Where was the quality control!” 😂 Vaughn, the quality control WAS Alan Wilder!
I actually agree with your dissection and opinion on each of these songs. Although I would have added or chosen other songs over some of these if I was only making a list of 10 myself. And I loath soft touch raw nerve and would have chose that over hole to feed.
Other songs to mention I dislike:
What’s your name
Monument
Satellite
It doesn’t matter
Comatose
John the revelator
Macro
I never laughed so much in a great while. THANK YOU Vaughn!! Very entertaining and I agree. HAPPY NEW YEAR Man
Glad you enjoyed it1! VG :-)
I can't stand Delta Machine and Spirit. Though, I do like "Always" and "Happens All The Time" from the Delta bonus disc. They totally redeemed themselves with the brilliant "Memento Mori". Their best since Ultra. In my opinion of course.... :)
Your opinion is exactly the same as mine on this !! 🎹👍😎VG
At risk of stating the obvious but with regard to 23:22: Alan Wilder surely was very much the quality control of DM. In addition to being the primary architect of their soundscapes, the arranger extraordinaire, co-producer, backing live vocalist, one-time tour drummer, occasional studio bassist, occasional song writer, etc. His influence on the quality was probably both direct and indirect. His direct impact is well documented, but the indirect influence on the quality was no doubt via his overall musicianship and work ethic. The others were clearly aware that he was the superior musician in the band, and therefore they had to raise their own games. Without Alan, all of this was gone, and each of these roles had to be replaced in some way. Most of the time, it was not done in a successful way, unfortunately.
I agree with some of what he says. Delta Machine and Spirit were of no interest to me - a life long fan.
Memento Mori was a major return to form. Thank goodness.
Jeez, the ones that get me are "The Dead of Night", which destroyed Exciter. And "Just Can't Get Enough", because when it gets into my head it segues into "Baby Shark".
Ahaha I also can't stand just can't get enough for that same reason
I like "The Dead Of Night". I think it has the heaviest chorus of all Depeche songs.
And Im a metal guy so I like heavy music.
Hey Vaughn. Absolutely spot on. Today Depeche Mode songs are mainly hookline orientated and one dimensional without depth. In the old days we enjoyed leadmelodies, countermelodies combined with brillant vocal melodies packed in a beautiful dynamic, layered arrangement thanks to Alan. Shake the Disease, Sun and the Rainfall, Walking in my Shoes and the list goes on and on and on.
You got it spot on in your analysis!! VG :-)
Alan is that missing ingredient, however they are capable of reaching that level without him. Home, Sister of Night and Wrong are examples for me that embody what the DM sound is and those were done post-alan. I think the last album albums to have that feel are Ultra and Playing the Angel.
@@andycibc I agree and Playing the Angel is a good album that often gets overlooked...
It’s quite simple : since Alan left…. You can see the difference. The other day I saw Dave say that some people lived in the past ; yes Dave because it’s just where you were the best.
I always said that I prefer "A Broken Frame" instead of "post Ultra" albums. DM is not DM since Alan left. It´s time to admit it. In adition, Anton go home, come back Brian with your great sleeves!
3:06 So much love is on "Spirit" album
Am I the only one who loves It's Called a Heart 😂😂😂?
Ok, lyrics are a little bit bluff but melody is kind of cool, and the synthetiser solo coming to the end is also great.
You are NOT the only one Sir!! VG :-)
Hahaha I have to say that I am an 80s DM fan, nonetheless, so I give my approval to things such as Puppets and New Life and See Yoi 😂😂😂
I adore it
I used to hate It's called a heart in the 80's, really, from the bottom of my heart. Then I heard that crazy funky cover from Didascalis few years ago and it was like a revelation. Oh, how wrong I was - it's definitely one of the best dance tracks DM ever recorded, a true diamond. This is probably the only DM song where I can imagine a mosh pit could be formed (There's a lot to be learned...)!
I love it as well, lyrics aside. Great energy, great melody and that synth slap bass line... man, what a perfect groove! :-)
Hey you lovely man, i thankyou for your your honesty, thank goodness we are not all the same, god how boring that would be. There are always going to be good songs and bad songs, but thankfully we all love DM regardless. I for one am glad your here to bring up these things. Hugs n happiness xxx
Bless you Marie!! Thank you for your kind words and I am glad you enjoyed the video. VG :-)
Team Vaughn! 😁 It's so weird to be a DM fan from the 80s and realise I have only liked few tracks since Exciter (which was already a bit of a disapointment!); But hey, I will never thanks them enough for the doors they have opened in my life and love them to death! 🤩
I feel the exact same way. I only listen to Speak all the way to Ultra because of how DM it is. It’s so funny how Ultra actually sounds like Alan is playing on that album. My heart breaks when I think he’s been out of the band for almost 30 years 😢
@@rubaidaallen2764 I guess Wilder's shadow was still a bit on Ultra. And as a music producer/composer (Synthwave/Synthpop), I can only but admire Martin for the amount of amazing and moving melodies he as been able to provide us! Perhaps inspiration is like a spring that can run dry?! I suppose every artist has his "momentum"?!
It does seem strange how such a prolific hit-making machine suddenly stopped in 1998. After 17 years of 100s of classic songs pre-2000; and then only 1 catchy song post-2000 -- Precious. (IMO.)
@@neilsun2521 I suppose no artist can maintain such a high artistical quality level for decades! I'm a bit less negative 🙂: Yes, yes "Precious", absolutely, "Wrong" was something and I really like the black & white studio version music video of "Broken" (better than the album version in my opinion), "South my soul" was catchy and I liked Dave's high notes experiments in "Should be higher".
@Nell Sun One of the reasons why Alan gives about leaving. Any pop/rock/ band after 20 years are not as vital/ cannot sustain - Neil Tennant calls this ,' the purple period '.
Solo/ marginal ' cult' artists are more able to sustain. Cheers.
You left off "In Sympathy" (I think it's on Sounds of the Universe). I hate that song--it has this glamorous top-40 sound to it, and the lyrics sound like something from a " you go girl" commentary. Maybe that wasn't Martin's intention, but "Your wise, your tough, you've heard them long enough . . . " It sounds like a cosmetics add about trying a new mascara.
Could you make a video of 10 best DM songs post Alan Wilder?
I agree with some of the songs like poorman. You have a lot of songs of Delta Mashine and Spirit. I even sort of like Hole to feed and Lilian.
My least favourite albums are Playing the Angel and Sounds of the Universe. Martin sounds like he is crying while he sings, like Macro. I‘m missing the melodies at all. They have some great songs on them like Wrong and Precious.
With Delta Mashine came at least some melodies back and I didn‘t push the forward bottom.
Memento Mori is great again accept of My Cosmos is mine. When I hear the album, I start with Wagging Tongue.
But this is my opinion and tastes are different.
Ha. This might be your best video yet. I had to look up all these songs. I used to know all the ins and outs of every DM song until I gave up on them on July 30, 2001 when the string of great songs ended. I remember the day vividly. I was a big Bomb The Bass fan, so Ultra got a pass, never mind that there are some great songs on there. I was even a big LFO fan from my rave days, so Exciter I looked forward to with anticipation, and "Dream On" was really good. But then on July 30, 2001 came "I Feel Loved". That was the end. In an instant. Never came back other than "Suffer Well". That's it. Done.
"It's Called A Heart" was classic DM. The CD single was pure DM cannon goodness. Even "Meaning Of Love" is actually a really good song, quite complex, classic DM interlocking melodies, great verse, refrain at the end and close, just has those awful lyrics and cheesy synth-strings/bells/horns throughout; a good stripped-down re-mix would put a new spin on it and take it off people's list.
ok, major areas of disagreement: hole to feed and Lilian are amazing. Dead of Night is quite nice. It's called a heart is cute. Soft touch raw nerve is decent enough. Secret to end is average.
i just realized that DM turned off comments on that tongue video lol AW, we miss you so badly 😢 please reconsider coming back...
I think that "You move" is quite intersting because of its missing 16note in the beat. So this one is the only exception from this list for me. Otherwise I agree with you.
Your review highlights why I've lost that magical feeling of anticipation when a new DM track is released. It's very telling that all in your list are from Exciter onwards. The rot had well and truly set in by then. Recently I saw Dave in an interview, visibly irritated by the question of whether Alan might come back. It's over then.
Effettivamente hai ragione! La vera "poesia" forse è finita nel '97 con Ultra ma dal 1980 al 1997 di capolavori ne abbiamo visti! Comunque W i Depeche Mode ! Sempre!
Dave was just like look that ship has sailed ok? Get over it. I agree. Alan made his decision to leave and we have to respect that. My friends and I were in total shock and still are saddened by his departure to this day, but he wanted out and we have to respect that. Do I want him to come back for at least one more album and tour? Absolutely! But it looks like that not going to happen sadly.
@@rubaidaallen2764 The man could changed his mind over the years, but it looks like no one is going to ask him back. And let's be honest: Dave's visible irrigation had nothing to do with willing to respect Alan's decision
@@rubaidaallen2764 😥
I saw that! I thought he came off as quite rude seeing as that girl seemed sweet and innocent. (But I assume he gets asked that question a lot; and it's hard to be polite when repeating same answer every day.)
I say this as a HUGE Depeche Mode fan, my favorite band of all time by far...
The last 3 albums were horrible, I didn't even buy the new one because I knew it would be more of the same (and I was right) add to this the death of fletch, and Gahan's voice being completely shot for years now... I'm afraid it's time for them to hang it up.
Vaughn, what I respect about you is that unlike so many others out there, you take the time to explain why you dislike something, while still acknowledging what redeeming qualities it may have.
I love "The Dead of Night", but I always saw it as the "quirky" song of Exciter with its somewhat silly lyrics.
The first time I heard "Peace", I thought it was a throwback to early DM, like something off A Broken Frame. I think the track would have been a lot better if Martin had done the vocals.
I wonder, would you ever consider doing a 10 Least Favorite from the Wilder era someday? Or a top 10 favorite from the modern era? Surely you must have them.
Bless you my friend and thank you ! I'm glad you realise that I try hard to be balanced and provide reasons for my opinions. Your suggestion for a "least favourite songs - Wilder era is a good idea ! Just to let you know , I've just launched a new Depeche RUclips Channel called "Depeche Mode Hub" . Be sure to check it out and subscribe! Thanks ! VG 🎹👍😎
I can tell you my #1 least favorite. Just Can't Get Enough. I've immediately had enough.
Just can't get enough launched the band.. without it there'd be nothing since.
People Are People is ruined by the "you and I should get along so awfully" lyric. I like the rest of the song but wish they'd used a different lyric than "awfully".
03:01 So much love
05:22 Poorman
08:00 Fail
09:12 Lilian
11:15 Corrupt
14:21 Soft Touch / Raw Nerve
16:43 Secret To The End (I DISAGREEEEE)
18:53 You Move (I DISAGREE)
20:49 My Little Universe (IT'S ONE OF MY FAVOURITE)
24:08 (Honorable mentions)
28:19 Hole To Feed (I STRONGLY DISAGREE. IT'S UNDERRATED AND THE RADIO VERSION IS JUST PERFECT. IT'S A GREAT POP SONG)
VAUGHN! - Here's an idea: Do bottom 10 from the albums from 86-98 - now THERE's a tougher challenge!
YES Please - that would be so difficult to do.
Remember the days when DM would produce a B-side and you would ask over and over again why it wasn't included on the main album, since it was simply a wonderful song?
What Vaughn just did was voicing what all old DM fans have been thinking about the last 4 albums. They all have lacked someone in the recording room saying "NO. This will NOT go into the album or on any B-side for that matter. Give it to your daughter/son to experiment with it and let's find something that's actually worth putting in an album."
My only complaint is about It's called a heart. I've always liked that song, a lot.
It´s almost like every once great band. They start, develop, get to their best and then it goes down. Slower or faster. Like everything in life. It´s born, it grows and blooms, and then it withers and....
Se PUDRE
Well Vaughn George, you've done it. It's 3AM, and I can't get those m-f'ing drums of "Hole to Feed" out of my head. If it wasn't my least favorite DM song, it's about to be.
Thank you soooo much! I really enjoyed watching your Depeche Mode tops as well as flops two weeks ago. Memento Mori really made me return to mad fandom. 🩶
The fun thing about your flop list: While I never was a big listener of Spirit or Delta Machine (achieved their total playback count with Memento Mori in a single day), you made me return to these albums. And let's say, especially Delta Machine (incl. bonus tracks) is growing on me quite a bit.
So thanks for bringing me closer to these albums!
Great video. I love hearing your opinions. After listening to all of the songs you mentioned, what I realized is that even a "bad" Depeche song is still a good one. Thank you for all your hard work. 🙂
10:52 an american band called cause and effect comes to mind lol "let's not wait another minute" "you think you know her", etc.
Interesting!! VG
15:34 you hit the nail right on the head. Old synthesizers don't always translate to better songs. SOTU is a perfect example.
I loved that album.
@@Wolf.88 I'm glad you liked it but for me it's mediocre at best.
Yeah Sotu is awful. The only great song, Come Back, has been destroyed by a shitty production (while the bare version is great)
@@Wolf.88 i like it too. Much of it anyways
I will not stand for this sounds hate it is amazing in my opinion
Things I've noticed:
- SOTU, Delta Machine (Demo Machine in your case), Spirit are a complete blackbox to you. Do you own these albums on cd/vinyl? If so do you ever give those records a re-listen?
- Lilian B-Side? With all respect Vaugh I thought you liked Playing The Angel, I have my doubts after watching this/hearing that.
- Not an single Exciter track on this list? I'm probably in 'Comatose'....
The in-depth album review will be an intresting rollercoaster ride after Ultra. You'll probably spent just 1 quick episode on Exciter, unfair.
Everything post Alan Wilder. Just doesn't cut it.
I'll drink to that!! VG :-)
Actually I am a big fan of the new stuff. But this is quite entertaining 😂 I always didn’t understand the “hype” about PTA. it has quite some good songs. But for me the last two albums are way better. Not counting MM.
Awesome video Vaughn. Your Depeche tastes are very similar to mine. You're correct the sonic vibe has gone. Once Wilder left, they have been in decline. Still can't believe they managed to create the awesome Ultra without him, and all the shit they were going through personally. But the rot began with Exciter. Still had some sonic sugar on some tracks but something started to change within them from then on. The good news for the band is their current direction/style does appeal to new and old fans, so we'll just have to suck it up buttercup. We at least have a tonne of fabulous songs to enjoy until the end of our days.
Yeah, the quality control went not long after Wilder left.
If you listen to the demos of some of their famous songs, they sound very similar to the finished product. I don't know why people give alan so much credit whereas martin gore does all the creative work.
@mksmith570 spot on
I love musical debates. Take this list - three of these are in my Top 70 of all time. 'So Much Love', 'Poor Man' and 'My Little Universe' and 'Lillian' is also a classic.
But what do I know. 'In My Room' is easily in my Top 10 worst DM songs, a dreary dirge - very much "just a drone" in the same way Vaughn thinks "Corrupt is".
I don't get this constant criticism of recent albums sounding like demo's. Nothing sounded as underproduced as SOFAD!!! An album, by the way, that Melody Maker infamously titled 'Synthetic For the People' as they slated it, unfavourably comparing it to 'Automatic For the People'. I was outraged!! And then listened to it and realised they had a good point, i.e. my least favourite album.
Sadly, I think there's a group of fans who both resent Wilder leaving and not having SOFAD Part 2 - this has meant that their view of the band will always be skewed to talking about the 'good old days'. Vaughan falls into this category.
Let's face it, the only way that songs like 'Boys Say Go', 'What's Your Name' and 'Told You So' and (seriously) about three off SOFAD don't make it onto the list, is because of some romantic desperation to hold on to the past.
Whilst no-one is ever going to argue that their 'Black Celebration' to 'Violator' spell, wasn't their best - for me 'Angel', 'Spirit' and now 'MM' are as good as them on average. People just need to accept that they're a different band and have moved with technological times.
I'm dreading at what's in your Top 10. Off to watch, now!!
The Dead of Night is one of my favourite on Exciter. And My Little Universe is one of my favourite on Delta Machine. I really like this straight-line synthesizer on this song.
But yeah, I hate Hole to Feed! Especially combined with the Video! I still can’t believe DM approved this video!
But at the same time, I think Wrong (from the same album) is one of the best ever DM songs and video!
Agreed. The Dead of Night it’s pure synth and beats and I love it when things are done “rough”.
My Little Universe it’s a hidden gem: pure experimental electronic. And I love that.
@@andrealeonti2967 i remember my first DM concert. It was Exciter tour, and the Dead of Night was open track. It was pretty cool
I really needed a video like this, thank you . Here is my top of the songs that I like least from this overrated band that I have as a profile photo, ops:
10. Wrong (why is it so popular? )
9. Ice Machine
8. One Caress (the only one I omit from SOFAD)
7. Lie to me
6. Painkiller
5. Freelove (it's too boring and tasteless)
4.Something to Do
3. It's Called a Heart
2. Somebody
1. I Want You Now
Hi Vaughn, greetings from Chile. Yeah, i agree with you. The last two albums (specially Spirit) they sound like demos. I know Alan said once that Martin will be happy releasing his songs just like they are, bared and without any production. Another thing about the drums. Are you note that all the snares sound like clap?. There's no more powerfull snares anymore like those of the golden days, like Never Let Me Down Again, Stripped, If You Want, and a lot of songs. I think you understand what I mean. It's really so sad.
Congrats on the 30k subs Vaughn, impressive milestone 🙂👍
Let's celebrate it by listening to your all time favorite DM track: Hole To Feed.
Jokes aside, well done my friend. Keep it up with the quality content! Here's to 50k! 🍻
i think the magical word you said sir about "layering" is whats lost of them after Alan left, no need for apologies - its you own clear and honest opinion and that you mentioned is what there 3 succeeding album to stagnant to my taste...thanks for sharing your in depth ideas and analysis brutally deconstructed, but sincerely delivered.
“So much love” (song) , is not from Delta Machine , it’s on Spirit album (2017) But of course I understand, this worst songs is forgettable .
I couldn't even remember some of the tracks you've mentioned here, Vaughn. It's not that I HATE them, I just don't come back to them after a three or four attempts to actually love them, and it really touched me that you did just the same.
Delta machine isn't my favourite depeche album period. I actually enjoyed wrong, can relate to the lyrics. SOFAD is a masterpiece 😍
Alan was ledgendry, yes.
Was devised when Fletch died 😭
Absolutely true about the generic production on the recent albums. Back in the day, even though Dan Miller produced three albums in a row, they all sounded completely different to each other.
Miller had never produced a single DM album. I think you're mistaking him with Gareth Jones.
17:07 lol. spot on. subbed. itt havent listened to a DM album since SoFaD.
I cant name songs from albums since about Ultra. The last 3 have been pretty abysmal. I used to go to DM concerts everytime they had a new album, sometimes to multiple shows the whole time they were in town, and now I havent gone since the last 3. I only went to one 4 albums ago to see if they'd play the oldies...cuz that's all I like from them. It pains me because my circle of friends know DM is my ultimate fave band because their 80's to mid 90's songs were during my formative years, musically-speaking.
Finally a good podcast! I totally agree with what you said.....all the last 4 albums, MMori included, are made in the same factory, same effects, same dramatic depressive voice....very boring and minimalistic, it is like the demos were left as they were....
I got into the band a couple years ago, the last three albums are the only ones where I listened from start to finish twice. Going back to re-listen to these songs definitely made me relate to groggy Alan and reminded me why I haven’t really revisited those albums. These have some combos of unnecessary distortion, brick-walled, very monotonous drums, some first draft vibes to name a few.
Hey man, as an occasional viewer I’ve often raised an eyebrow (or both) over your reviews and comments, while a ‘hmmmmmm’ escapes.
On this occasion I totally, TOTALLY agree - 100%, 10 for 10 - on your Worst list. If anything your 5 notables were more controversial to me (It’s Called A Heart raising the eyebrow).
But here, I’m with you all the way. The list is a mishmash of the most non-deserving, ignoble, mis-firing tracks ever to populate any Depeche Mode albums.
And the list concentrates on the ‘era’ from SOTU to now (I’d add an update to this and add the entirety of Memento Mori TBH).
Thanks for confirming my own views. Oh, add almost all of Exciter too, yeah?
You're welcome and thank you ! You are of course always free to disagree with me. A lot of people agree with my views and a lot of people also don't and that is fine. But you can be rest assured that I speak my and I try my best to articulate my thoughts. Cheers and thank you. VG
Great video Vaughn, I laughed my ass off at the "Great cornholioooooo" bit :D. And I can see why "Alan is not impressed" either, LOL...🙄 I pretty much agree with your list, and I might add that there is another thing that DM songs have lost over the years, a thing that I call their "frenchiness", what I mean is that nostalgic, melodic aspect in songs resembling to those songs in old 70's french movies, for example "Little 15", "Dressed in Black", "Things You Said", "It doesn't Matter Two", "Here is the House", etc... It would be nice to have those kinds of songs back on the "Demento Memori" new album... Anyway, I loved your video, thanks Vaughn, cheers!
Yes !!!! FRENCHINESS for yeeeears Ive been saying that!!!
I applaud your honesty. This was interesting to watch.
There is a distinct difference between A Broken Frame and Construction Time Again, and then from Songs of Faith and Devotion to Ultra, and it’s the same key piece. In my opinion, they’ve only been able to keep going for last 30 years because of what they built with Alan Wilder. If he hadn’t joined them, they probably would have fizzled out in late 80’s.
Absolutely. Once they allowed him to have input, his work ethic in the studio saved the band and ensured they’d have a long lasting career. Pity the three self centred original members didn’t appreciate that.
Totally agree...I really lost interest when Alan left the band
Yeah, well said. Alan was their wizard
Watching this video was good but you made me laugh so much with the video edits at the end to introduce #1... LMFAOF!!! i had to see the intro to it like three times because i was laughing so hard at it... Thanks For Making me laugh.... I'm Dead LMAO
Totally agree about "Hole to Feed." I went out to the toilet during that track at the O2 on the SOTU tour... and it was only the second track! My wife said when I came back: "Hmmm... Not my favourite track."
Yes I agree !! They should have called it "HAEMORRHOID TO FEED!!" :-) :-) VG
I watched this video, Sir. Thank you for all the positive things you also mention here. I always liked "Corrupt" and I think it is a cool triplet. They use the melody technique from the bridge of "Corrupt" also on the bridge of "Where's The Revolution". I have been with you from the start and I still am. Stay positive. -Andy Ry Denmark.
Great video Vaughn. I appreciate your honesty and agree with most of your list. Side note, I thought So Much Love was on the Spirit album, not Delta Machine?
This whole video was completely hilarious. Oh my god this was great. The sound quality isn’t as good as it was. I miss the old Depeche Mode. I love the side cut to Alan Wilder. Thank you Vaughn 😊.
Great video, really enjoyed the format/production! Totally agree in terms of the sound of the recent albums (with a few songs as the exceptions)..
...but am I the only one who likes "the Meaning of Love"? I enjoy it as a 80's novelty :)
I like it too. Good music video as well.
@@FrankieTeardrop1998 "Meaning Of Love" could have been a really good song, just some bad choices were made in production IMO. And the lyrics could have been presented a little tongue in cheek but instead they went ooey gooey doughy earnest. Anyway, I dislike "Love In Itself" more.
Nope. I was kind of afraid it would make the list and I would be mad. Even though it's twee as hell.
@@paganpines I could be mistaken, but I think Martin wrote Meaning of Love when he was 14 (or maybe it was See You), hence the tweeny sound of both.
Drop the word, "like."
Thank u cuz this taught me what not to do as a song writer.
BTW, you got me rediscovering them I love your top 10 best. I love the new album too. Thank you 😊
You are very welcome Brenda!! VG
The 3 albums before Memento Mori are an absolute disgrace. A trifecta of bs. First time I didn't buy their cds. Even Anton's artwork is just plain lazy. Like he just pulled them out of a dusty cupboard forgotten about for years. Waited 20 years for a half decent album in MM but still has a slight stink left over from the previous 3. Saw them 3 times on their current tour with Berlin being the standout.
"Soft touch/ Raw nerve" is crap
This is one of the greatest videos you’ve ever released. And I agree with you on all of it. You could wish the last three albums into oblivion and I wouldn’t miss a damn thing. Maybe Wrong and Heaven I’d keep and that’s it. I do think The Sweetest Condition is worse than The Dead of Night. But they’re like two sides of the same coin. LOL Thank you for putting this out. It was fun. LOL
I more or less agree with your opinion VG, but I don't dislike So much love and Lilian, but It's true that Lilian's lyrics is a little bit childish. I very rarely listen to SOTU, I think I haven't listened to it since many years. And I don't really miss it. I listen to Delta Machine 1-2 times a year (a few songs of it more times), and Spirit maximum once a year, except Cover Me because I regard it as a small diamond among Spirit's tracks. I think there could be collection in a complete album from the post Ultra era of good songs of Exciter, PTA, SOTU, Delta Machine and Spirit. 10-12 songs from these albums would make one album in a level of albums in pre PTA era.
I totally agree with Vaughn...One of the reason we love this band is that there were absolutely no bad songs in their albums (and even the b-sides were fantastic) Now I struggle to find songs I like in the last fourth albums...And I worry a lot about the forthcoming one 😐 Nothing compares their chef d'oeuvres...
By chance are you one of the people that hate everything post Alan because you can’t get over the fact he left because mori is very good, spirit not so much I don’t like it but then I will not accept this hate for delta machine and sounds if the universe they are amazing especially universe
So Much Love is from the Spirit album, not Delta Machine... but yes, it suck, just like almost all of this album.
Agree about Dead of Night. Although it received something of a saving grace through it being promoted as the opening number on the Exciter tour. Dave's entry onto the stage was as magical as always.
I love Dead of Night and I agree about its life impression. This song should be played life again.
@@hijk2008 i'm with you i love that song
Would be cool if you even knew the names of the songs you’re criticising.
Speak and Spell is hard for me to really like - I appreciate it as part of the history, but I rarely listen to it. Most recent albums aren’t Violator, SOFAD or even Music for the Masses, but they still have some great tracks. With DM I can listen to whole albums; with any other decent group/band, I can maybe listen to 3 out of 12 tracks.
@Vaugh George what’s your view on The Sunshine and the Rainfall
Are you just going to play Delta Machine? 😂
It's insteresting that the DM fandom hates Delta so much. I like Delta Machine more than Spirit or SOTU. I also really like Exciter, more than the S&S or a Broken Frame. I like when they to some more interesting experiments. Delta Machine has its problems, but I also think that it had some really interesting electonic experimentalism going on.
@@hatzegopteryx.sounds3637 lm joking of course, but I watched DM live twice in 2017 and no Delta Machine track was performed. For me, it’s not the songs it’s the way it was produced / arranged that disappoints.
Yeah, Delta Machine kinda sucks.
There may be one or two minor slipping in off a record or two, but keep that quiet just between us only. No one will see this comment 🤫🧐
Delta machine is waay better than spirit imo
This was pretty funny. Alot of it was also true. I think every band reaches their peak at some point and then just continue on making albums with 1-2-3 good songs. It's not just DM it's also U2, Coldplay, The Cure... so many. I think our expectations for Depeche are too high. I thought playing the angel had some solid songs. I actually really like going backwards. I'm just grateful they are still around and I hope that on the new one there is are at least 1-2 good songs. Yes it's frustrating because as a big fan I would love to give them advice on how a new album should sound and how in recent years the live set is so predictable.. why not start really big! Open with Never let me down??, Enjoy the silence? Play People are people / Dangerous... something obscure? Fingers crossed for Momento Mori! Peace and love to all here from Australia.
I would play any of these songs over Just Can’t Get Enough 😂🤣.
Vaughn, at last somebody has had the balls to say this!! I'm glad it is someone who is highly respected too. Respect for you for doing it. To be fair you could have picked any 10 tracks from the last 3 albums so have bo problems with the ones you have chosen. It's just a shame you won't get a chance to interview DM now as if they see this they will take great offence. In reality they can't see it themselves and face facts. Peace is still at No-1 for me though purely based on the fact that they had the cheek to release it as a single!!! How can you go from Enjoy The Silence to Peace in under 20 years. Anyway, Well done. Great video.
What? Corrupt?? Ahhhh I LOVE this song. I respect your opinion, but this is one of their greatest tracks!! I love it!!
I was honestly surprised by Hole To Feed being the bottom one. I 100% agree, that the video is awful, but it has a catchy rhythm, that makes me dance on the chair. It is actually one of my favorite songs from SOTU. Having said that, i like the fact that the majority of the songs were from the last 3 albums. Let's hope that Memento Mori is more than a excuse for a tour, that they have found their way once again.
Thank you Vaughn for your honesty. It was pleasurable to see. Thank you🙏 Respect 🙏
The "hole to feed" bit was fuckin hilarious. Thank you for that Vaughn. Totally agree on most of your list especially my little universe and raw nerve / soft touch. They can't all be winners can they ....
Great video and a great list. 'Demo Mode' is so accurate.
I fully agree and I was laughing through tears during your video. Unfortunately, I can't create my 10 worst DM songs because since Exciter it is long list, and I can't even list them because I do not remember the names of songs. Simply, I do not listen albums from Exciter because quality is poor, too much far away from what they did before. As said several times, DM without Alan is just DEMO mode.
Tak tak
I love it's called a heart.
I love blues, "Corrupt" is in my top ten DM songs.
I love it too. 🙂
@@AvesPasseri-Jinysvet One of my post Alan era faves too,
Corrupt is beter than most of the last times
Great track indeed