Depeche Mode Tour of the Universe arrives at the Hallenstadion

I have many fond memories of Depeche Mode concerts.  Depeche Mode introduced me to live music as they were the first act I saw live, in a half full Wembley Arena at the age of 15.  That was probably the last time they played in such an undersold venue, the release of Violator ensured that.  Depeche Mode are under-appreciated in the UK, but it matters not, as the fans in the rest of Europe and the States more than make up for it.

After the release of the fabulous Playing the Angel, in the summer of 2006 I dragged Maria along to see them play at the Moon and the Stars festival in Locarno.  I was determined we would be as close to the front as possible, and so we were there in plenty of time and our efforts were repaid as we had only a couple of people between us and the stage.  My hope was that Maria would feel the chemistry in the same way I felt it. Unfortunately Maria missed the concert... Nonetheless, as an avid listener, I can say the following:

Depeche Mode are known for making a big effort with the visuals at their performances and it is appreciated.  They play in big venues, and unless you are near the front the extra screens and images are an excellent addition to the concert experience. Dave Gahan is an excellent frontman, and the crowd always responds well.  Every Depeche Mode concert I have attended has had an amazing atmosphere, a big friendly receptive crowd of people who sing with huge enthusiasm to every song. 

Sounds of the Universe is the 12^th Depeche Mode album.  The key to any band’s longevity is to continue to experiment and progress.  Depeche Mode must be doing something right to continue gaining fans and popularity as the band’s members approach their 30^th year together.  The most recent addition to their discography was generally well received, and sees the first song written by Dave Gahan and Martin Gore together.