Depeche Mode, the iconic British electronic band, is back with a highly anticipated new album, Memento Mori, set to be released on March 24 via Columbia Records. The album marks the band’s 15th studio album and is the first to be recorded as a two-piece lineup of Dave Gahan and Martin Gore, following the tragic passing of co-founder Andrew “Fletch” Fletcher in 2022.
First Single Released
The arrival of Memento Mori is heralded by the release of the first single, “Ghosts Again.” The song was previewed in Berlin in October at the Memento Mori tour launch event and is a classic Depeche Mode track. It features Gahan’s evocative lyrical imagery and Gore’s hypnotic guitar work atop an uplifting and optimistic groove. “To me, ‘Ghosts Again’ just captures this perfect balance of melancholy and joy,” commented Gahan. Gore added, “It’s not often that we record a song that I just don’t get sick of listening to – I’m excited to be able to share it.”
Album Details
Memento Mori is Depeche Mode’s highly anticipated 15th studio album, marking the band’s first release as a two-piece lineup following the tragic passing of co-founder Andrew “Fletch” Fletcher in 2022. Produced by James Ford and with additional production work by Marta Salogni, the album was primarily recorded during the early stages of the Covid pandemic, with themes inspired by that period.
The album’s 12 tracks are said to cover a wide range of moods and textures, from dark and brooding to uplifting and joyous, showcasing the band’s knack for creating music that is both introspective and highly relatable. The album’s opening track is reportedly a haunting instrumental piece, while the album’s closer is described as a “cathartic” and “uplifting” composition.
Fans were treated to a sneak preview of the album when Depeche Mode kicked off their Memento Mori tour in Berlin in October 2022. The tour will coincide with the album’s release and marks the band’s first tour in over five years. While the tour will be limited to a few select cities, fans around the world can look forward to hearing the band’s latest offerings on the “Memento Mori” album.
The complete track listing for Memento Mori is:
- My Cosmos Is Mine
- Wagging Tongue
- Ghosts Again
- Don’t Say You Love Me
- My Favourite Stranger
- Soul With Me
- Caroline’s Monkey
- Before We Drown
- People Are Good
- Always You
- Never Let Me Go
- Speak To Me
Tour Announcement
The Memento Mori Tour will coincide with the album’s release. Depeche Mode’s first tour in over five years and 19th overall, the Live Nation-presented tour kicks off on March 23rd.
UPDATE: Northwest area tour dates were just added, with the tour making stops at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, BC on November 24th, Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle on November 26th, and MODA Center in Portland, OR on November 28th. Pre-sales will kick off with a Fan Pre-sale on Tuesday, February 21, with the general on sale beginning Friday, February 24 at 10am local time.
Legacy of Depeche Mode
Having sold more than 100 million records and played to more than 35 million fans worldwide, Depeche Mode remains an ever-evolving and singularly influential musical force. An indelible inspiration to fans, critics and artists alike, Depeche Mode continues to forge ahead, with the Memento Mori album and tour representing the opening of the newest chapter of a peerless and ongoing legacy.
Throughout their career, Depeche Mode has pushed boundaries and broken barriers in the music industry. The band’s early synth-pop sound paved the way for countless other electronic acts and influenced everything from techno to industrial music. Their 1990 album, Violator, is widely considered one of the greatest electronic albums of all time and featured hit singles like “Personal Jesus” and “Enjoy the Silence.”
The band’s live shows are renowned for their spectacle and energy. Depeche Mode’s performances often feature elaborate lighting and stage design, as well as Dave Gahan’s dramatic on-stage persona.
Depeche Mode’s final show of their Music for the Masses tour was a landmark event that took place at the Pasadena Rose Bowl in 1988. The concert was captured for posterity in the form of a documentary film and accompanying live album, both titled 101. Directed by D.A. Pennebaker, the film is highly regarded for its candid depiction of fan engagement and the unique atmosphere of the event.
Interestingly, the film’s title was suggested by Depeche Mode member Alan Wilder, who noted that the Rose Bowl show was the 101st and final performance of the tour. The accompanying live album features highlights from the concert, including fan favorites like “Master and Servant” and “Never Let Me Down Again.” Together, the film and album provide a vivid snapshot of one of Depeche Mode’s most memorable performances and a lasting testament to the band’s enduring popularity.
Depeche Mode’s influence extends beyond their own music. The band has been covered by countless artists, including Johnny Cash, Marilyn Manson, and Tori Amos. Their music has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and video games, and they have inspired countless other musicians to create electronic music.
In recognition of their contributions to music, Depeche Mode was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2020.
Final Thoughts
Fans of Depeche Mode will be excited about the new album and tour, and Memento Mori promises to be a classic addition to their catalog. Despite the tragic loss of Fletcher, the band’s two-piece lineup of Gahan and Gore continues to create music that captures the essence of Depeche Mode’s sound. Their music remains an inspiration to many, and this new album and tour represent a continuation of their legacy.
