• Record Label: Reprise
  • Release Date: Oct 18, 2005
User Score
8.7

Universal acclaim- based on 246 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 11 out of 246

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  1. Feb 9, 2013
    10
    With hindsight being 20-20, and this review being written 7-1/2 years after the released of this album, I can write, without any hesitation, that Playing the Angel is my favorite Depeche Mode album and that is saying a lot because I am a completely devoted fan of the band since I first heard them in 1986. Playing the Angel is a different kind of Depeche Mode album and it would be unfairWith hindsight being 20-20, and this review being written 7-1/2 years after the released of this album, I can write, without any hesitation, that Playing the Angel is my favorite Depeche Mode album and that is saying a lot because I am a completely devoted fan of the band since I first heard them in 1986. Playing the Angel is a different kind of Depeche Mode album and it would be unfair to try and compare it with any other album, except maybe Violator. This album is so good that it has been the staple of my musical diet since the day it was released. What sets this album apart from all others are two secret ingredients never before present in a Depeche Mode album. First is a unique and permeating throbbing that flows from song to song and ties them all together, and secondly David Gahan contributed songs to the album, and not just any songs, a couple of fantastic songs. Individually, nearly every song is excellent beginning with the explosive opening of A 'Pain That I'm Used To' right down to the last note of the last song 'Darkest Star'. This album is far greater though than the sum of its individually outstanding parts, and that is what sets this album apart. 'Suffer Well' is my personal favorite, and this song has replaced 'In Your Room' from 'Songs of Faith and Devotion' as my all-time favorite Depeche Mode song. I find it very ironic that 'Suffer Well' (written by David Gahan) has become my favorite DM song of all time because it is the first song written by anybody but Martin Gore in 25 years, and I have long considered Martin Gore to be among the greatest songwriters of all time. This album excels on all levels and there are six standout tracks that help give this album an unparalleled timelessness and longevity: John the Revelator, Suffer Well, Sinner in Me, Precious, Nothing's Impossible, and Darkest Star. Expand
  2. ludovicf
    Oct 18, 2005
    9
    This is their best work since Music For The Masses !!! I'm not an hysterik fan and i love all kind of music ( rock, electro, pop, trip hop, classic etc...) The futur will be great with Depeche Mode ! Great record !
  3. jothaxej
    Nov 1, 2005
    10
    This is why I still love Depeche Mode after all these years.
  4. heinec
    Nov 6, 2005
    10
    this is just so dm as dm can be. i love the feel and sound. every dm fan will love it, maby even some new listeners here and there..
  5. daved
    Oct 20, 2005
    10
    a classic electrosoul cd. Never boring, never repetitive, lyrically brilliant. album of 2005.
  6. AndyE
    Oct 20, 2005
    10
    great
  7. MarkA
    Oct 27, 2005
    7
    Easily the best album since Faith and Devotion (but that's not saying much since there's been only 2 others, not including the "best of's"). The first 5 tracks really stand out. Great album for DM fans though.
  8. f_ii
    Jan 30, 2009
    9
    Just cool, amazing album.
  9. PeterS
    Nov 15, 2005
    10
    Mode's new album is nothing short of a masterpiece. Their opening show in Tampa was unbelievable. Tight music with vocals that combine and take you on a journey of sight & sound that is almost unmatched in music today.
  10. RolandoL
    Nov 16, 2005
    9
    Amazing, back to what they stood for. Singing about life's sad side. The truth about what can and will wrong with many people's lives.
  11. EleannaD
    Nov 1, 2005
    9
    a mature evolution of Gore's genius
  12. GarethL
    Nov 2, 2005
    8
    After the largely disappointing Exciter, this is a great return to form. I have to agree with the critics in saying this is their best effort since Violator. Go buy it!
  13. BrentT
    Nov 6, 2005
    9
    As soon as I heard songs from this new album, I knew it would impress. Despite the fact that Depeche Mode hasn't had a fresh new album in some time, they keep the same catchy and mysterious tunes that can be compared to those older ones that made them famous, such as those on Violator. Their new production techniques make the album sound even more unique.
  14. HenrikA
    Oct 18, 2005
    10
    One of their absolute best
  15. JanR
    Oct 18, 2005
    10
    great album! they are back!
  16. EricR
    Oct 19, 2005
    8
    Very strong 1st 5 or 6 tracks. I feel it is a little weak in the middle buyt ends very well with tracks 10-13 sealing the deal nicely. Strongly Recommend it.
  17. JoeC
    Oct 19, 2005
    10
    My heart stopped when I first heard that DM was working on a new album. My boyfriend Rubin and I are lifelong fans, and just hearing the new material brings back many happy memories (thanks Rubin!)....
  18. DavidH
    Oct 22, 2005
    10
    The addition of Dave's writing into the mix adds inspiration and new life to the band and keeps Martin on his toes. The analog factor is nice and hoping so desperately that some of the analog synths travel on tour with them and get some triggering live. The synthi, arp, jupiter, Juno, moog, oberheim, hoping and hoping that its not all pro tools audio we hear on tour and that its some The addition of Dave's writing into the mix adds inspiration and new life to the band and keeps Martin on his toes. The analog factor is nice and hoping so desperately that some of the analog synths travel on tour with them and get some triggering live. The synthi, arp, jupiter, Juno, moog, oberheim, hoping and hoping that its not all pro tools audio we hear on tour and that its some real gritty live triggering. I feel the presence of Alan Wilder back in the wings, lingering and hoping to step back to do some work with the band. His polish is something that could bring back the Violator days gone by. Great listen. Expand
  19. coryh
    Oct 22, 2005
    10
    rolling stone is such a bunch of want to be emo kids its a embarresment, stick to my chemical romance, this is a powerful cd, and it has some great songs that make you remember why there truly standing the test of time, 25 years .. wow
  20. Jemma
    Oct 24, 2005
    9
    It isn't my favorite Depeche Mode album, but it really refreshed my memory as to why I fell in love with this band in the first place. I can't wait to attend their concert!
  21. VinceC
    Oct 24, 2005
    7
    PTA does not rank among the best DM albums, but it is their best album since the departure of Alan Wilder over ten years ago. That said, there's nothing particularly groundbreaking on it, there's some filler (such as the pointless instrumental Introspectre), and the second half of the album fades a bit after a strong start. On the plus side, Gahan proves he can write a good tune PTA does not rank among the best DM albums, but it is their best album since the departure of Alan Wilder over ten years ago. That said, there's nothing particularly groundbreaking on it, there's some filler (such as the pointless instrumental Introspectre), and the second half of the album fades a bit after a strong start. On the plus side, Gahan proves he can write a good tune (albeit with a couple of co-songwriters), Gore proves he can continue to write good ones, and Fletch is Fletch. This album is NOT a 10, but most long-time DM fans won't be disappointed. Expand
  22. YossiR
    Oct 25, 2005
    8
    Generally, a good album. It lacks the energy DM lost after "Songs of faith and devotion", but it's not as dead as "Exciter". Some songs there do remind the classic sound of DM ("Lillian" could be a track on Music for the masses and you wouldn't know). Somehow the melodies in this album are not as they were before, and the singing is a little too screamish; but all in all it isa Generally, a good album. It lacks the energy DM lost after "Songs of faith and devotion", but it's not as dead as "Exciter". Some songs there do remind the classic sound of DM ("Lillian" could be a track on Music for the masses and you wouldn't know). Somehow the melodies in this album are not as they were before, and the singing is a little too screamish; but all in all it isa new Depeche Mode album, and it sounds like one as well. Expand
  23. mikeT
    Oct 27, 2005
    10
    I think that this album is a lot more akin to their older stuff than exciter was. Both were great albums, but this album kicks major ass! Precious, john the revelator, suffer well, lilian, a pain that i'm used to all kick major booty! Better than all of this saturated rap crap currently playing everywhere.....enough already! Buy this album!
  24. Vail
    Oct 29, 2005
    8
    Being a fan since 85, I was a worried after listening to Exciter; by far my least favorite Dmode collection. Thank God for this inspired and edgy sounding CD. Since the departure of Wilder, it seems the band is in the midst of rediscovering itself. PTA is a very strong effort. The components that make Dmode great are all here. Precious is probably one of the most personnel pieces Mart has Being a fan since 85, I was a worried after listening to Exciter; by far my least favorite Dmode collection. Thank God for this inspired and edgy sounding CD. Since the departure of Wilder, it seems the band is in the midst of rediscovering itself. PTA is a very strong effort. The components that make Dmode great are all here. Precious is probably one of the most personnel pieces Mart has written in years. The first few listens really grabbed me. I think the lyrics speak for itself. There has been a lot of talk about Suffer Well as being a standout track. I don't know. It comes across somewhat bland to me. Nothing's Impossible is by far the best out of the three tracks from Dave. The Sinner in Me strikes me as a true to form Dmode track; very nicely layered with a superb soundscape. All in all this effort is winning and shows if anything, Dmode is still an exciting and creative force. Expand
  25. stefanoc
    Oct 31, 2005
    9
    Amazingly fresh, incredible modernization of a classic sound, great vocals, compact album conception, is this a brand new band or what? they are a cult. They are unique legacy. Tthey are a passionate devotion to quality music and intelligent tunes. Fav tune? That shouting feast Jhon the revelator: energetic, classic, modern, succint, powerful. Nothing is impossible with these guys, even Amazingly fresh, incredible modernization of a classic sound, great vocals, compact album conception, is this a brand new band or what? they are a cult. They are unique legacy. Tthey are a passionate devotion to quality music and intelligent tunes. Fav tune? That shouting feast Jhon the revelator: energetic, classic, modern, succint, powerful. Nothing is impossible with these guys, even producing such great music after 25 years. Thank you depeche, u made my day one of hope and pleasure. Expand
  26. elo_rey
    Oct 30, 2005
    10
    DM doing their best again! perfect pop-synth songs, love the sound of these old sinthethizers.
  27. DecepticonPom
    Jan 2, 2006
    9
    Generation i-Pod has too short an attention span to award this album the patience that rewards such an outstanding album.
  28. precious
    Jan 4, 2006
    9
    I bought PTA the day of release, and have not stopped listening to it since (its been 4 months). It is a constant on all my cd players and on my so loved iPod. Not only has the album proven its worth on a million counts, its also shown me why I love DM in the first place. Ever track (aside from Macro--don't like that one at all) is so DM it hurts....Love it. I recently had the chance I bought PTA the day of release, and have not stopped listening to it since (its been 4 months). It is a constant on all my cd players and on my so loved iPod. Not only has the album proven its worth on a million counts, its also shown me why I love DM in the first place. Ever track (aside from Macro--don't like that one at all) is so DM it hurts....Love it. I recently had the chance to see them live in Toronto (for the PTA tour) and it was by far THE best concert I've been too. Dave Gahan is a beautiful, beautiful man. Expand
  29. KurtA
    Jan 6, 2006
    10
    Depeche Mode Rules
  30. JuanR
    Oct 9, 2006
    10
    This album is dark and melodic. Best album since Songs of Faith and Devotion
  31. RichS
    Feb 15, 2006
    8
    This is a very good album. After two pretty poor efforts (Ultra and exciter) Playing the Angel is up with the best depeche albums of all time. Tracks are beautifully put together with melody opon melody layered deep within the songs. Standout tracks include the Gahan penned Suffer Well (probably the best thing on the album) and I want it All (probably the second best thing on the album). This is a very good album. After two pretty poor efforts (Ultra and exciter) Playing the Angel is up with the best depeche albums of all time. Tracks are beautifully put together with melody opon melody layered deep within the songs. Standout tracks include the Gahan penned Suffer Well (probably the best thing on the album) and I want it All (probably the second best thing on the album). If you were dissapointed by exciter, get hold of this album, it sort of serves as an apology in the best possible way. Expand
  32. Fitter
    Mar 23, 2006
    9
    First of all, far far better than Exciter. And this is a big surprise. It seems some competition (two songwriters) greatly contributed to the final result. DM at last deliver a number of good songs and although these won't turn out to be particularly remarkable in their career, I belive the band did all they could at the moment. Standouts: Sinner in me and Suffer Well
  33. MooMants
    Apr 1, 2006
    9
    This is a great album. Classic Mode, but still fresh and addictive listening. Some really cool production touches. I bought it out of loyalty to an all time fave band, but now I can't stop listening to it.
  34. JOSEG
    May 24, 2006
    8
    Excelent, to the top of Depeche Mode CD's.
  35. ianb
    Apr 30, 2009
    10
    I hated this and wanted to sell it on ebay, but after a lengthy gap, i returned to it and playing the angel is an amazing album, after several listens it hits you. It is a very modern classical album - it's complex and the songs are built with perfect components- it's dm's equal to radioheads in rainbows, keep listening you will get it.
  36. WilliamL
    Nov 1, 2005
    8
    I've read a few comments about playing the angel and most lof you are still in "violator" & "ultra" bubbles. I, as a true fan have listened and then listened again at the boys. Iike you I have fell in morbid love with each and every track. My favourate---"ultra" has heped me through countless hours playing resident evil. Try it guys it works!. Anyhoooo stop comparing and bloody I've read a few comments about playing the angel and most lof you are still in "violator" & "ultra" bubbles. I, as a true fan have listened and then listened again at the boys. Iike you I have fell in morbid love with each and every track. My favourate---"ultra" has heped me through countless hours playing resident evil. Try it guys it works!. Anyhoooo stop comparing and bloody listen, it's proper moody and I'm not past 5. Expand
  37. maxd
    Nov 10, 2005
    8
    What a surprise! Depeche Mode comes out with a very interesting record after the controvesial Exciter. It's probably the darkest stuff they have ever made. Gahan's songs equal the Gore ones in terms of quality. Well done Dave! The general mood - as said above - is dark and gloom with the only exceptions of "PRECIOUS", "LILIAN" and John The revelator" who relate to 90s Depeche What a surprise! Depeche Mode comes out with a very interesting record after the controvesial Exciter. It's probably the darkest stuff they have ever made. Gahan's songs equal the Gore ones in terms of quality. Well done Dave! The general mood - as said above - is dark and gloom with the only exceptions of "PRECIOUS", "LILIAN" and John The revelator" who relate to 90s Depeche Mode. "The darkest star", "a Pain I'm used to", and "nothig is impossible" are my favourite tracks. Expand
  38. Gaurav"Doc"M
    Nov 25, 2005
    10
    Though I am a long time fan, in honesty, this is some excllent work in production and writing. Depeche I feel has come in STRONG with this "Playing the Angel!" Well worth the wait for a classic DM album!
  39. ManuelA
    Nov 27, 2005
    9
    Wow, the return to the 80's!. I feef well with them again.
  40. Bulky
    Nov 29, 2005
    10
    PTA is awesome! It's not Violator Part II as some DM fans have lamented but who wants it to be. Had DM kept on doing the same old thing year in year out they would have lost their loyal fan base years ago and they would have ended up becoming a sad parody of the great band they used to be (Yes I'm talking to you Rolling Stones). DM do something fresh, different and rewarding PTA is awesome! It's not Violator Part II as some DM fans have lamented but who wants it to be. Had DM kept on doing the same old thing year in year out they would have lost their loyal fan base years ago and they would have ended up becoming a sad parody of the great band they used to be (Yes I'm talking to you Rolling Stones). DM do something fresh, different and rewarding with each record but yet still manage to sound distinctly like DM. PTA is no different. It might not be their best record but then again it just might be. Time will tell. DM fans, just rejoice because they have released a new album which will hopefully not be their last. New lfans, do yourselves a favour and go back through the DM catalogue and find out what you have been missing out on for the last 25 years. Expand
  41. PalP
    Nov 4, 2005
    9
    It is a great CD. Of course the times of Violator or Songs of Faith and the 80's will never be back, but this is a great return. It is far superior than Ultra and that the dissapointing Exciter. With songs like Nothing's Impossible or Suffer Well they took me fifteen years ago to the good times of techno-goth heaven.
  42. Jo
    Nov 5, 2005
    10
    Amazing how they can combine experience with authenticity. Fresh but mature, brand new but drawing on the best DM stuff of the late 80s, it's definitely music for sophisticated masses.
  43. calinv
    Oct 17, 2005
    10
    PTA is a masterpiece of dark and dirty electronics : half of it is a puncher and the other half is a trip ; Few audio sessions are required and some into-electronica music preferences This album is for the masses who refuse to be shallow...
  44. DH
    Oct 17, 2005
    10
    Ace album, takes the best moments from the part 4 albums and combine them into one diverse and hyperactive synth rock album. Pure genius.
  45. ShaunR
    Oct 17, 2005
    10
    This completely makes up for Exciter. This is Depeche Mode in top form!
  46. peteb
    Oct 17, 2005
    10
    Maybe their best album. For a 25 year old band that is incredible. Dark, daring and delicious Depechealbum!
  47. KevinA
    Oct 17, 2005
    10
    Best album this year by far.
  48. gianfrancol
    Oct 17, 2005
    10
    Best one since Violator album!! Great DM!!
  49. EliaR
    Oct 17, 2005
    10
    excellent album, Nothing's Impossible and Suffer Well stand up as great and obscure tracks, actually the whole album it's genious
  50. nickw
    Oct 18, 2005
    9
    this album is surprisingly and wonderfully consistent compared to the previous two disappointments. not the best album they ever put out, but definitely on par with 'black celebration' or 'music for the masses'. David Gahan's lyrics can be a little trite at times compared to the usual martin gore penned material, but it's definitely worthy of attention. this album is surprisingly and wonderfully consistent compared to the previous two disappointments. not the best album they ever put out, but definitely on par with 'black celebration' or 'music for the masses'. David Gahan's lyrics can be a little trite at times compared to the usual martin gore penned material, but it's definitely worthy of attention. having so much of my soul invested in music, and having spent much of my early teens being such a fan of these guys, i can't help but be put in a good mood when i listen to this CD. Expand
  51. IJekic
    Oct 18, 2005
    10
    Although DM are my favourite band, I never thought that they would release the masterpiece like this, after all affairs and time they spent together!! Congratulations guys!!
  52. BitBurn
    Oct 18, 2005
    9
    Needless to say, these ol' farts still have a few new tricks under their sleeves! From the first 3 seconds you can tell they're back with a vengeance! The sound is raw, intense but yet underneath all these brand new analog layers of cool dirty licks you still find that goody deep and distinctive DM melodies that never cease to please us! Wonderful!
  53. Jared
    Oct 18, 2005
    10
    Depeche Mode is definitely back after 'Ultra' and 'Exciter' which contained some great and powerful songs, but did not have the same charm as 'Some Great Reward', 'Black Celebration', 'Music For The Masses', and 'Violator'. This album is on par with those classic albums and gave it a 10 because making music and staying a group Depeche Mode is definitely back after 'Ultra' and 'Exciter' which contained some great and powerful songs, but did not have the same charm as 'Some Great Reward', 'Black Celebration', 'Music For The Masses', and 'Violator'. This album is on par with those classic albums and gave it a 10 because making music and staying a group for 25 years is hard enough while coming out of the shadows of poor reviews from their last two previous attempts. They are truly back in great form! Expand
  54. matts
    Oct 18, 2005
    9
    brilliant-I just dont get these guys -how can a band over two decades of music and performances can actually get better!!.
  55. RenéL
    Oct 18, 2005
    9
    Best DM album for many years. The fans have been longing for more pace and edge - and the band delivers. Biggest surprise must be Dave Gahans songwriting, which has improved significantly since Paper Monsters.
  56. BonV
    Oct 18, 2005
    8
    Much better than the last effort Exciter, almost up there with their classics Violator, Songs Of Faith And Devotion and Black Celebraton!
  57. MikaelN
    Oct 18, 2005
    9
    Is so great!
  58. EdwardE
    Oct 18, 2005
    9
    Fanfuckingstastic.
  59. sunes
    Oct 19, 2005
    10
    Excellent! The mode back in shape. Classic feel, but as always totally reinvented them self.
  60. nats
    Oct 21, 2005
    10
    Amazing!!! They're back:)
  61. ADAMB
    Oct 21, 2005
    10
    Up there with violator + music for the masses - April can't come around quick enough!!
  62. DavidC.
    Oct 21, 2005
    10
    Freakin' A!!!! I love everything about this album; the music, the lyrics, Dave's voice... It'll stick in my heavy song rotation for a long while. Depeche Mode have just proven their staying power and that they're not done yet.
  63. StephenI
    Oct 21, 2005
    10
    As usual, Depeche Mode manage to come out with an album that surprises, yet satisfies. At first listen I would have rated it a 7 1/2. But given a chance, the songs grow like a spark to a flame. Could have maybe tweaked a few things, but overall the album scores!
  64. richardh
    Oct 21, 2005
    9
    We have stepped back to the outstanding anthems of Violator and SoFaD. Truly outstanding. Manchester 30th March cannot come soon enough!!
  65. CubeLuke
    Oct 20, 2005
    10
    I love DM since 1989 and my three best albums are MFTM, Violator and now also Playing the angel. Thank you Depeche Mode for this amazing album. I'm enjoying it all the time x-times a day and still discover new and new forms of live. DM FOREVER ;)
  66. Mairac
    Oct 20, 2005
    9
    Just amazing!
  67. BenjitheGreat
    Oct 21, 2005
    10
    Rolling Stone can kiss my freakin ass, this album is better than sex.
  68. RicardoC
    Oct 22, 2005
    10
    Almost 25 years have passed since Depeche Mode recorded their first album, Speak and Spell. They became the best and most influential band in the electronic scene, and also one of the biggest and most important acts in the world. Obviously, all of these achievements force them to give their best in every new album they release. And this is what we find in Playing the Angel. The album starts with
  69. craigm
    Oct 22, 2005
    9
    What was Rolling Stone thinking? They interview Dave Gahan in the same issue as Bono, with the latter's face taking up the entire front cover, then they trash the Depeche cd in the 30th review of the issue.This cd does loads more for me than Morrissey , Echo, R.E.M. AND U2's latest--their only worthy contemporaries still around (and I adore all 4 of the aforementioned) But this What was Rolling Stone thinking? They interview Dave Gahan in the same issue as Bono, with the latter's face taking up the entire front cover, then they trash the Depeche cd in the 30th review of the issue.This cd does loads more for me than Morrissey , Echo, R.E.M. AND U2's latest--their only worthy contemporaries still around (and I adore all 4 of the aforementioned) But this is surely one of their Depeche's albums in a very long time and to see it get dismissed by America's "premier" musical reviewer and be thrown in the issue as sidenote is a terrible disgrace. God bless these guys-25 yrs and still counting! Expand
  70. NankingY
    Dec 28, 2005
    10
    I love this album!!! It's the best they have put out since Violator. I can't wait til their next one.
  71. Karen
    Oct 22, 2005
    10
    As a fan of Depeche Mode's since I was 13, I have never faltered from them being the best out there. Their music ages well. Now with this album, they aren't slowing down. I would say it ranks up there with Music for the Masses, Violator and Songs of Faith and Devotion.
  72. DaniilK
    Oct 24, 2005
    10
    The Best.......Rolling Stones are jealous s... some real views at life!!!
  73. Matt
    Dec 5, 2005
    7
    Solid, dark lashings of Mode by numbers
  74. AshleeS
    Oct 26, 2005
    10
    First two singles are amazing. Sure the songs sound dated compared to the nasal banter of what the disney channel force feeds to young kids! Hats off to DM for keeping the faith. Reward Ashlee Simpson with endless media play and dump DM to the back of that rag of a magazine. I won't mind not hearing or seeing DM anywhere but my ipod.
  75. SeanW
    Oct 28, 2005
    8
    Bam! Bam! Bam! The first three tracks kick ass. Very good album overall.
  76. BrianE
    Oct 28, 2005
    9
    Back to basics and a much better offering than Exiter, which didn't exite me at all needless to say (save for 2 good tracks). Strong vocals by Gahan on "John the Revelator", and gotta love the 80's feel of "Lillian" and "A Pain that I'm Used To". I can't stand people comparing this album to violator in a negative way because it not about trying to re-capture Violator. Back to basics and a much better offering than Exiter, which didn't exite me at all needless to say (save for 2 good tracks). Strong vocals by Gahan on "John the Revelator", and gotta love the 80's feel of "Lillian" and "A Pain that I'm Used To". I can't stand people comparing this album to violator in a negative way because it not about trying to re-capture Violator. It's simply an album that shows Mode can still produce great music midway through their second decade. Martin has a lot of music left in him, and Dave ain't too shabby either. All in all a refreshing and potent addition to the DM catalog. Expand
  77. SteveB
    Oct 29, 2005
    8
    I bought Speak & Spell back in 1981 when I was 11 years old and was immediately hooked on Depeche Mode - although in recent years I don't listen to them as much any more. However, I still look forward to a new release and go out and buy it. SOFAD was, IMHO, the last consistently good album they released. Ultra had some good moments, Exciter was pretty dire with perhaps one or two I bought Speak & Spell back in 1981 when I was 11 years old and was immediately hooked on Depeche Mode - although in recent years I don't listen to them as much any more. However, I still look forward to a new release and go out and buy it. SOFAD was, IMHO, the last consistently good album they released. Ultra had some good moments, Exciter was pretty dire with perhaps one or two good moments. I was a bit apprehensive that this album would spell the end altogether. On first listen I was a bit nonplussed - quite a different sound for them - I don't really know where all the Violator comparisons are coming from; to me this album sounds a lot sparser and harsher than Violator. On repeated listens though, this one has grown on me. I think the strongest track is "The Darkest Star", similar vibe to "Clean" and it's the closing track too. "Suffer Well" is a great track and "Sinner in me", "Nothing's Impossible" and "Precious" make the grade, but I think the rest of the album falls short. Martin's singing just grates on me these days - wish he would come up with some material on par with earlier tracks like "Somebody", for example. The old "pain and suffering" schtick is getting pretty old too, to be honest. DM have said they don't want to repeat themselves, and stylistically they've managed to avoid that for the most part. But how about a little thematic change, fellas? ;-) Anyway, decent album overall, gives hope to a long-time fan that they still have a few tricks up their sleeves... p.s. Ray M, are you sure you hear a Crystal Method sample? I've never known Depeche Mode to sample other people's stuff, so I'm curious as to what track you think it samples... Expand
  78. ozumgroup
    Jan 11, 2006
    10
    it is the best music group...
  79. RomascuA
    Nov 9, 2006
    10
    it's very good.
  80. BjörnL
    Jan 25, 2006
    10
    Best DM Album since Violator and I wouldnt be suprised if I will rank it as number 1 in a couple of years
  81. FuzikéaK
    Feb 12, 2006
    9
    The first listen got me hooked, and I must say that it just gets better the more I listen to it. PTA fully converted me to Depeche Mode. Only flaw: Please, please, please, don't pay attention to "Macro"...
  82. LiliM
    Jun 27, 2006
    10
    dm are consistent with producing classic albums one after the other. its music with meaning and is original and inspiring. you can listen to the alibum over and over again and each time you discover another sound, another part which relates to your life in some way. they are just like no other.
  83. AlvinA
    Jul 26, 2006
    10
    Depeche Mode stand as one of the greatest bands in the history of contemporary alternative pop music. Being my number 1 band, I must say that I am indeed impressed by the simple, yet well-layered beauty of each track. This sounds like Depeche Mode at their best, doing what they know: producing good rhythms, lyrics, vocals, and a collective pattern of sonic bliss. They still sound like Depeche Mode stand as one of the greatest bands in the history of contemporary alternative pop music. Being my number 1 band, I must say that I am indeed impressed by the simple, yet well-layered beauty of each track. This sounds like Depeche Mode at their best, doing what they know: producing good rhythms, lyrics, vocals, and a collective pattern of sonic bliss. They still sound like Depeche Mode, with the analog synths, but also more evolved, with more sophistacted electronic effects, and addictive guitar hooks. Way-2-Go! :) The best thing next to Some Great Reward and Violator. In some ways, even better! Stand out tracks: A Pain that I'm Used To John the Revelator Suffer Well The Sinner In Me Precious Nothing's Impossible The Darkest Star Expand
  84. DexStud
    Jul 29, 2009
    9
    Stellar entry from synth-pop's greatest guys. Covers many genres including: alt rock, dance, and, pop. Once again proves Depeche Mode as one of the greatest bands of all time.
  85. SaharM.
    Nov 21, 2005
    10
    The greatest album Lilian is the best and also others
  86. LeoMoz
    Nov 23, 2005
    10
    so cool!!!
  87. josem
    Nov 3, 2005
    10
    muy buen material
  88. KevinH
    Oct 17, 2005
    9
    Great album - a definite return to form from Dave and the boys! Suffer Well is amazing - I can't stop playing it. I've got tickets for their show in Montreal and can't wait to go! Welcome back guys!
  89. robb
    Oct 17, 2005
    10
    Best album since Violator...Great work DM!
  90. NikD
    Oct 17, 2005
    10
    it is just an amazing piece of work, you need to listen a few times and then you get really addicted to it !! let the electricity flow...
  91. HapF
    Oct 18, 2005
    10
    Incredible. DM at purely great form.
  92. AramisG
    Oct 18, 2005
    10
    A really solid album. It just pisses me off thinking it is going to take another 5 yrs to get more material out of these guys when this album is so good. Sounds like they have been listening to some of the bands they influenced (Xiu Xiu, etc.).
  93. Alex
    Oct 18, 2005
    9
    The best album after Violator. New sound challenges and still sounds like Depeche Mode.
  94. GoranM
    Oct 18, 2005
    10
    it is a beautiful and mesmerising...true DM
  95. Ian
    Oct 19, 2005
    9
    Shades of Construction Time Again and Speak and Spell - they really went back to their roots for a lot of the sound here.
  96. omarc
    Oct 19, 2005
    9
    Thank god! I was worried there for a bit. Depeche seemed to slide in the post Alan Wilder era. But this album is a return to form for the crew from basildon. Nicely done. It's like the band took a song from every album past and grafted on the theme. John the Revelator a cross between Pleasure, Little Treasure and Personal Jesus. The SInner in Me born of Rush. Precious in the style of Thank god! I was worried there for a bit. Depeche seemed to slide in the post Alan Wilder era. But this album is a return to form for the crew from basildon. Nicely done. It's like the band took a song from every album past and grafted on the theme. John the Revelator a cross between Pleasure, Little Treasure and Personal Jesus. The SInner in Me born of Rush. Precious in the style of enjoy the silence and it's no good. Collapse
  97. joeb
    Oct 19, 2005
    7
    No way near Violator. Not too bad though..the band is missing the unique sound of Alan Wilder. Best since Violator though
  98. John
    Nov 9, 2005
    9
    DM is inventive once again meshing violator on to form " Playing the Angel."
  99. GermanC
    Oct 21, 2005
    8
    Muy buen cd.... todavia no pueden superar "musica para las masas" o "violador", pero estan arriba de "sonidos de fe y devocion" y de "ultra." La primera mitad del cd es increible... la segunda mitad baja el ritmo, mucho segun mi gusto, pero en general le doy 8 puntos. todavia siguen vivos y dando guerra.... aun son lo mejores del genero por lejos. Gerdmode
  100. igor
    Oct 21, 2005
    9
    well ... first impession was ... disturbed, crushed and fooled around again. After several rounds of listening - it's %^@#&^ great! I love it.
Metascore
78

Generally favorable reviews - based on 22 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 19 out of 22
  2. Negative: 0 out of 22
  1. Like the best Depeche Mode, almost everything on the album will make an initial wowing impact while remaining layered enough in subtle details to surprise and thrill with repeated listens.
  2. Billboard
    80
    Revels in dirty guitars and fuzzy distortion while maintaining Depeche Mode's familiar electronic sound. [22 Oct 2005]
  3. Filter
    86
    It's got all the allure of classic D-Mode, but there's that lingering hint of taking oneself a tad too seriously. [#17, p.97]