I believe this album to be Depeche Mode at their absolute finest, Gahan and Gore created a beautiful level of fresh urgency to the songs on this LP, and the writing of the many beautiful hooks throughout is just perfection. Add the acute production ear of Mark ‘Flood’ Ellis, renowned for working magic on a boat load of amazing acts such as Goldfrapp, Gary Numan, New Order, Foals, Erausre and tons of other brilliant synth pop artists and this was always going to be a special album.
Flood got these songs sounding so big and full across all the musical spectrums, but still allowed so much breathing space around them, this is a very difficult thing to achieve at this level in a studio environment. He succeeded on every level here with flying colours.
Right from the off and ‘World In My Eyes’ every single song on this album is an out & out winner on every level, the placement of the tracks throughout take you on a wonderful electronic journey, never get too self indulgent and are the perfect reflection of every little piece of their genius.
From the beautifully understated tracks ‘Waiting For The Night’ and ‘Blue Dress’ through to absolute screamers such as ‘Personal Jesus’ ‘Enjoy The Silence’ and ‘Policy Of Truth’ this entire collection is right up there with one of the finest albums of the past 30 years.
One of my all time favourite albums, 100% certified killer from start to finish.