‘Memento Mori’: Living And Dying

Depeche Mode brings fire and light into the darkness

“’Cause people are good
Whisper it under your breath
People are good
Keep fooling yourself”

— People Are Good (2023), Depeche Mode

So it's out today the latest album by Depeche Mode. A new Depeche Mode album? I am in Heaven. But it's a dark Heaven. Yes. That's because it is our reality with one of the greatest iconic beats and lyrics put to it.

It begins with a statement of intent and a somber but powerful chant of reclamation against those who are trying to take our existence from us through division, war, and ecological decimation. It is a call to all to stand and hold fast and if necessary fight for their and our identity. It is quintessential Depeche Mode.

I have been a fan since the very early days when songs like ‘People are People’ and Master and Servant’ were for me resonating with my own political persuasion of anti-Thatcherite views, And I have been with them through most of their musical career. With the album Violator, for me, they hit a new height of combinatorial genius of mighty beats and melodies and a message, with my favourites being World in My Eyes and Policy of Truth being played endlessly.