Depeche Mode - Delta Machine

[Braintree]

Finally took a listen to the whole thing. I quite like a few tracks, most of all "My Little Universe," "Slow," and "Goodbye." I think this album [as well as their past few attempts] is a lot more minimal than their older "golden age" records. It sounds like there are fewer tracks in the arrangements. The mix is superb, since it's crystal clear, but the overall arrangement could use some more layers to thicken it up.

 

I got the Deluxe version via iTunes (woke up this morning to find it installed and ready to listen)... on first listen... not too many tracks stand out to me - ironically the bonus tracks seem more interesting than the main material.

 

Then again, "Heaven" I didn't immediately like, and it grew on me, so I imagine this will too. Bit disappointed there isn't a stand out, sure fire hit from it - but that doesn't mean there are tracks that will stand the test of time.

 

One thing I sometimes have problems resolving with DM is their pseudo-blues-gospel lyrics since SOFAD - some songs are pretty good (Condemnation) with them, others are cringe-worthy (John The Revelator). I wished sometimes they'd (looking at you Martin Gore) go back to "Depress Mode" and write some angsty stuff again.

 

I quite like "John the Revelator." I don't really pay attention to the lyrics though. I liked the vocal performance and the rawness in the production.

 

And I think they don't really do "Depress Mode" anymore since they're grown up and have pretty much everything they want. I think a lot of inspiration comes from suffering, and they don't suffer like they used to.