Remembering Andrew ''Fletch'' Fletcher, one year since his passing.
May.26.2023
On this day, one year ago, I was spending time with my Spouse. We had gone for a walk along the river trail and then decided to relax in the backyard. We set up a board game in the gazebo and just aimed to enjoy the warm spring weather.
As we prepared to set up another round of our game, I glanced at my phone. There was an update from Depeche Mode's official Facebook page. As I began to read the words, I could barely process or make sense of what was before my eyes...
On this day, one year ago, I was spending time with my Spouse. We had gone for a walk along the river trail and then decided to relax in the backyard. We set up a board game in the gazebo and just aimed to enjoy the warm spring weather.
As we prepared to set up another round of our game, I glanced at my phone. There was an update from Depeche Mode's official Facebook page. As I began to read the words, I could barely process or make sense of what was before my eyes...
''Oh my god''...I wistfully uttered. My Spouse immediately asked what was wrong. I said ''Fletch from Depeche Mode has passed away..''
I felt my voice begin to go shaky as I tried to explain more, but I couldn't. I just burst into tears and signaled that we needed to go inside.
The news of Fletch's passing hit me on so many different levels. Firstly, having lost both my parents over the last three years, I could immediately empathize with his friends and family.
Secondly, it was like a part of my life had died. Depeche Mode's music has been a massive part of my life for over 23 years. Every song, every album has a memory associated with it. From wild parties, to summer drives, evening walks, to time with friends, and so forth - so many of my life's moments have been accompanied by Depeche Mode's music. To say it is the soundtrack to my life would be an understatement. Their music has brought me countless moments of joy and elation, but also helped heal my pain during times of crisis. Now, a part of Depeche Mode was gone. This fact truly hit me, and it hit painfully hard.
As I headed upstairs, I laid down in bed and bawled. I thought about how Fletch had been there since the very beginning, how he had been the glue to help keep Dave and Martin together during tumultuous times, and how he had often handled the business side of things for the group. Indeed, Fletch was important to Depeche Mode.
That night, my Spouse and I, along with a few friends, watched Depeche Mode: Alive In Berlin to mourn the loss of Fletch and celebrate his life. Over the next few days my social media feeds were taken over with heart-felt and grief- stricken posts about Fletch. Fans from all over the world showed love and support. It really emphasised how much of an impact Depeche Mode has had on all ages and all walks of life. It was touching but bittersweet to see.
In the weeks that followed, myself, and many other fans began to wonder what this would mean for Depeche Mode. Was this the end?
Dave Gahan had made several comments after the end of the Global Spirit Tour that eluded that he may in fact be ready to call it quits with Depeche Mode. Although he had previously made comments like this when tours concluded, I wondered with Fletch gone would it actually be true this time?
On August 15th, Depeche Mode posted a photo of Dave and Martin in the studio with the caption ''Finding stability in what we love, and focusing on what gives life meaning and purpose.''
I knew right then and there, Depeche Mode was not over! I cried as I was so elated! There are no words that can truly articulate how happy I was.
However, the image of just Martin and Dave alone hit hard. It was extremely emotional to see them together, working through their loss, as a team. However, the photo did sadly accentuate that Fletch was gone.
What followed would be the new album Memento Mori (meaning remember you must die). Although the songs had been written and the title chosen before Fletch had passed - we the fans could not help but think about him when hearing many of the songs.
One of the photos within the album's sleeve was of Dave and Martin standing with a city skyline in the background. Dave is making the World In My Eyes gesture as the sun casts a shadow off of the two of them. A third shadow representing Fletch can be seen beside them. The image is extremely powerful and moving. A visual representation of their loss.
I felt my voice begin to go shaky as I tried to explain more, but I couldn't. I just burst into tears and signaled that we needed to go inside.
The news of Fletch's passing hit me on so many different levels. Firstly, having lost both my parents over the last three years, I could immediately empathize with his friends and family.
Secondly, it was like a part of my life had died. Depeche Mode's music has been a massive part of my life for over 23 years. Every song, every album has a memory associated with it. From wild parties, to summer drives, evening walks, to time with friends, and so forth - so many of my life's moments have been accompanied by Depeche Mode's music. To say it is the soundtrack to my life would be an understatement. Their music has brought me countless moments of joy and elation, but also helped heal my pain during times of crisis. Now, a part of Depeche Mode was gone. This fact truly hit me, and it hit painfully hard.
As I headed upstairs, I laid down in bed and bawled. I thought about how Fletch had been there since the very beginning, how he had been the glue to help keep Dave and Martin together during tumultuous times, and how he had often handled the business side of things for the group. Indeed, Fletch was important to Depeche Mode.
That night, my Spouse and I, along with a few friends, watched Depeche Mode: Alive In Berlin to mourn the loss of Fletch and celebrate his life. Over the next few days my social media feeds were taken over with heart-felt and grief- stricken posts about Fletch. Fans from all over the world showed love and support. It really emphasised how much of an impact Depeche Mode has had on all ages and all walks of life. It was touching but bittersweet to see.
In the weeks that followed, myself, and many other fans began to wonder what this would mean for Depeche Mode. Was this the end?
Dave Gahan had made several comments after the end of the Global Spirit Tour that eluded that he may in fact be ready to call it quits with Depeche Mode. Although he had previously made comments like this when tours concluded, I wondered with Fletch gone would it actually be true this time?
On August 15th, Depeche Mode posted a photo of Dave and Martin in the studio with the caption ''Finding stability in what we love, and focusing on what gives life meaning and purpose.''
I knew right then and there, Depeche Mode was not over! I cried as I was so elated! There are no words that can truly articulate how happy I was.
However, the image of just Martin and Dave alone hit hard. It was extremely emotional to see them together, working through their loss, as a team. However, the photo did sadly accentuate that Fletch was gone.
What followed would be the new album Memento Mori (meaning remember you must die). Although the songs had been written and the title chosen before Fletch had passed - we the fans could not help but think about him when hearing many of the songs.
One of the photos within the album's sleeve was of Dave and Martin standing with a city skyline in the background. Dave is making the World In My Eyes gesture as the sun casts a shadow off of the two of them. A third shadow representing Fletch can be seen beside them. The image is extremely powerful and moving. A visual representation of their loss.
Text found within the album's sleeve reads...
Andrew John Fletcher
1961-2022
In Our Hearts And Minds
Dave & Martin
A year later, Fletch truly is still in all of our hearts and minds, and here, as with Depeche Mode's music he will surely live forever.
Andrew John Fletcher
1961-2022
In Our Hearts And Minds
Dave & Martin
A year later, Fletch truly is still in all of our hearts and minds, and here, as with Depeche Mode's music he will surely live forever.
Memento Mori inlay photo taken by Anton Corbijn.
Released on this week, back in 2003, Dave Gahan's solo debut.
May.24.2023
I remember sitting in my living room back in 2002, when I was still a young teenager. I was watching MuchMoreMusic and during the music news segment the headline SOLO MODE flashed across the screen. My eyes widened as I watched with great interest. The host talked about how Dave Gahan was planning to release a solo album!
Since 1998, I had become a massive and passionate Depeche Mode fan, and Dave was my favorite member. The notion of a Dave Gahan solo album thus greatly intrigued me!
During the months that followed, I monitored Depeche Mode and then Dave Gahan's official websites for news on the album. I recall visiting DaveGahan.com and scrolling through all the pages, eager to learn more about the upcoming record. At the top of the screen there was a banner that showcased some of the album's lyrics like ''the tin man says I'm doing fine''.
I soon discovered that the first single would be called Dirty Sticky Floors. I rushed to one of my local record stores to order the double vinyl, as I had to have a copy! I also ordered the Maxi single on import from my local HMV.
With my singles pre-ordered, I told my friends all about the imminent new song. One day, I got a call from my friend Matt who enthusiastically told me he had just seen the new music video for Dirty Sticky Floors! I was jealous as he had seen it first, but also excited! Tell me all about it....I proclaimed!
Not long after, I got to see the video myself. I loved seeing Dave in various alter egos he portrayed in the video - especially the stage performer segments! Dirty Sticky Floors was an alt-rock song with electronic elements. The song was dynamic and robust. Dave was in top form! I loved it from my initial listen! That Spring, I hosted many house parties and Dirty Sticky Floors was also played and presented for many friends and guests.
I was thrilled when I heard the song had been a great success, becoming a Top 10 hit in places all over Europe. It was also a Top 10 hit on the Billboard Dance and Club charts.
Around this period, Dave's website hosted an array of interesting videos showcasing behind the scenes footage of the music video shoot. These, compiled with the single release, and official video, all contributed to my great (and growing) excitement for the rest of the album.
I look back fondly at this time. It solidified my love for Dave not only as the amazing lead singer and frontman of Depeche Mode - but now as a fully fledged songwriter and solo artist.
I recently went to see Depeche Mode again in concert with a friend of mine. It was his first show and on the way to the gig we played many Depeche and Gahan solo songs in the car. He remarked about the nostalgic nature of Dirty Sticky Floors... as I was always playing it during that spring and summer. All these years later, I still love this amazing song!
I remember sitting in my living room back in 2002, when I was still a young teenager. I was watching MuchMoreMusic and during the music news segment the headline SOLO MODE flashed across the screen. My eyes widened as I watched with great interest. The host talked about how Dave Gahan was planning to release a solo album!
Since 1998, I had become a massive and passionate Depeche Mode fan, and Dave was my favorite member. The notion of a Dave Gahan solo album thus greatly intrigued me!
During the months that followed, I monitored Depeche Mode and then Dave Gahan's official websites for news on the album. I recall visiting DaveGahan.com and scrolling through all the pages, eager to learn more about the upcoming record. At the top of the screen there was a banner that showcased some of the album's lyrics like ''the tin man says I'm doing fine''.
I soon discovered that the first single would be called Dirty Sticky Floors. I rushed to one of my local record stores to order the double vinyl, as I had to have a copy! I also ordered the Maxi single on import from my local HMV.
With my singles pre-ordered, I told my friends all about the imminent new song. One day, I got a call from my friend Matt who enthusiastically told me he had just seen the new music video for Dirty Sticky Floors! I was jealous as he had seen it first, but also excited! Tell me all about it....I proclaimed!
Not long after, I got to see the video myself. I loved seeing Dave in various alter egos he portrayed in the video - especially the stage performer segments! Dirty Sticky Floors was an alt-rock song with electronic elements. The song was dynamic and robust. Dave was in top form! I loved it from my initial listen! That Spring, I hosted many house parties and Dirty Sticky Floors was also played and presented for many friends and guests.
I was thrilled when I heard the song had been a great success, becoming a Top 10 hit in places all over Europe. It was also a Top 10 hit on the Billboard Dance and Club charts.
Around this period, Dave's website hosted an array of interesting videos showcasing behind the scenes footage of the music video shoot. These, compiled with the single release, and official video, all contributed to my great (and growing) excitement for the rest of the album.
I look back fondly at this time. It solidified my love for Dave not only as the amazing lead singer and frontman of Depeche Mode - but now as a fully fledged songwriter and solo artist.
I recently went to see Depeche Mode again in concert with a friend of mine. It was his first show and on the way to the gig we played many Depeche and Gahan solo songs in the car. He remarked about the nostalgic nature of Dirty Sticky Floors... as I was always playing it during that spring and summer. All these years later, I still love this amazing song!
Released on this day (USA) in 2001, Depeche Mode - Exciter. How I fell in love with this ambient gem.
May 15th 2023
Over 20 years ago, I recall riding in the car with my grandmother. I was still more or less just a kid then. She was playing the radio, as I was watching the spring landscape through the car window. Suddenly something caught my ear. It was the familiar voice of Dave Gahan! It's the new Depeche Mode song I proclaimed! I turned the radio up to better absorb the song. It was Dream On, the lead off single for Depeche Mode's upcoming album Exciter.
That night, I turned on the music video stations to see if I could catch the video for Dream On. I was happy when I saw it played several times. I was also pleased that the song was on heavy rotation on both the MuchMoreMusic channel and the local rock station K-Rock. When the band had success, I too celebrated, in the same way that Sports fans lauded when their team won. With that I mind, I was similarly thrilled when Dream On became a Top 10 hit.
As the release of Exciter approached, I saw the HMV commercials advertising it played quite often. It is funny how something as simple as a commercial can remain such a strong memory.
During the album's release, I got my grandmother to drive me into the city so I could buy the record. I remember being proud to take it to the cash and exclaim in great detail how much I loved Depeche Mode!
When I got home I put the record on and was struck how the album version of Dream On was different from the single mix. As I explored the rest of the tracks, I discovered that Exciter was a very atmospheric affair. Many of the songs had lush ambient sounds and textures. The production gave the record a gorgeous digital soundscape. Dave Gahan's voice was suitabley delicate on many of these tracks. The vocals effortlessly sailed over the warm cinematic quality of the songs. I immediately fell in love with Exciter.
As the album was released in the middle of May, it quickly became my summer soundtrack. I remember going camping with my father and stepmother and playing songs off Exciter to some of the other kids at the campground. I also remember listening to tracks like Shine, Freelove, and When The Body Speaks in my headphones at night, tucked up in my tent. These tender and mellow ballads were the perfect backdrop to a warm summer night.
As July rolled around, the second single I Feel Loved was released. I can still reminisce about the first time I saw the music video. I played I Feel Loved nonstop during this time, and it became my summer anthem.
More than two decades later, I still love Depeche Mode and I still love Exciter.
There is a certain comfort in knowing, despite how time has a way of changing things - this special love for this music has remained a strong constant. When I play Exciter, during the opening song, Dave sings Can you feel a little love... the answer is a resounding yes!
Over 20 years ago, I recall riding in the car with my grandmother. I was still more or less just a kid then. She was playing the radio, as I was watching the spring landscape through the car window. Suddenly something caught my ear. It was the familiar voice of Dave Gahan! It's the new Depeche Mode song I proclaimed! I turned the radio up to better absorb the song. It was Dream On, the lead off single for Depeche Mode's upcoming album Exciter.
That night, I turned on the music video stations to see if I could catch the video for Dream On. I was happy when I saw it played several times. I was also pleased that the song was on heavy rotation on both the MuchMoreMusic channel and the local rock station K-Rock. When the band had success, I too celebrated, in the same way that Sports fans lauded when their team won. With that I mind, I was similarly thrilled when Dream On became a Top 10 hit.
As the release of Exciter approached, I saw the HMV commercials advertising it played quite often. It is funny how something as simple as a commercial can remain such a strong memory.
During the album's release, I got my grandmother to drive me into the city so I could buy the record. I remember being proud to take it to the cash and exclaim in great detail how much I loved Depeche Mode!
When I got home I put the record on and was struck how the album version of Dream On was different from the single mix. As I explored the rest of the tracks, I discovered that Exciter was a very atmospheric affair. Many of the songs had lush ambient sounds and textures. The production gave the record a gorgeous digital soundscape. Dave Gahan's voice was suitabley delicate on many of these tracks. The vocals effortlessly sailed over the warm cinematic quality of the songs. I immediately fell in love with Exciter.
As the album was released in the middle of May, it quickly became my summer soundtrack. I remember going camping with my father and stepmother and playing songs off Exciter to some of the other kids at the campground. I also remember listening to tracks like Shine, Freelove, and When The Body Speaks in my headphones at night, tucked up in my tent. These tender and mellow ballads were the perfect backdrop to a warm summer night.
As July rolled around, the second single I Feel Loved was released. I can still reminisce about the first time I saw the music video. I played I Feel Loved nonstop during this time, and it became my summer anthem.
More than two decades later, I still love Depeche Mode and I still love Exciter.
There is a certain comfort in knowing, despite how time has a way of changing things - this special love for this music has remained a strong constant. When I play Exciter, during the opening song, Dave sings Can you feel a little love... the answer is a resounding yes!
Released On This Day in 2009, Depeche Mode - Sounds of The Universe.
April.20.2023
On this day back in 2009, Depeche Mode released their album Sounds of The Universe.
I vividly remember watching, online, the Depeche Mode press conference at the Berlin Olympiastadion (on 06.10.2008). Here the initial announcements of the album were made. I was absolutely mesmerized by the clips of the new songs that were played during the conference (Wrong and Peace). These small clips were enough to infuse me with great excitement for the next Depeche Mode project!
In February 2009, I got to hear one of these songs in full. Depeche Mode performed Wrong at the Echo Awards. I can still recall watching this performance and being in total astonishment! The song was powerful, angry, but also sad. The track was a sort of desperate rant. It stirred my heart. It represented all the things I loved about Depeche Mode. As always, Dave's distinct baritone voice elevated the song to another level! His stage moves were commanding and electric!
On this day back in 2009, Depeche Mode released their album Sounds of The Universe.
I vividly remember watching, online, the Depeche Mode press conference at the Berlin Olympiastadion (on 06.10.2008). Here the initial announcements of the album were made. I was absolutely mesmerized by the clips of the new songs that were played during the conference (Wrong and Peace). These small clips were enough to infuse me with great excitement for the next Depeche Mode project!
In February 2009, I got to hear one of these songs in full. Depeche Mode performed Wrong at the Echo Awards. I can still recall watching this performance and being in total astonishment! The song was powerful, angry, but also sad. The track was a sort of desperate rant. It stirred my heart. It represented all the things I loved about Depeche Mode. As always, Dave's distinct baritone voice elevated the song to another level! His stage moves were commanding and electric!
I played the video of the performance to friends and family alike many times over the next few weeks.
In April, I got to hear the whole album! I sat in my apartment bedroom alone, not wanting any company. This was an experience I wanted for myself. As In Chains started I marveled at all the wonderful sounds and bleeps that exploded from my speakers.
Sounds of The Universe was a very analog sounding record. Filled with great songs, each number took me away somewhere mentally and spiritually. The retro sounding synths gave it an almost nostalgic feel. However, it didn't come across as a retread of other Depeche Mode records. Rather, a symbiotic inclusion of retro sounds on contemporary tracks. It seemed more upbeat than the previous four records. In Sympathy and Fragile Tension especially had a great electronic groove. My favourite track though, was the ravishing ballad Come Back. The soaring vocals on this touched my soul! The deluxe version of the album contained several more amazing tracks like the spellbinding Ghost, the inspiriting Light and the techno-trance anthem Oh Well.
I fell in love with Sounds of The Universe immediately, and over the next few months I made sure to play it (and the various music videos) at many house parties and road trips. My favourite memories of the record though are the ones I have of listening to it on warm spring afternoons. During this time, my then partner would be at work. I would have the apartment to myself, to relax and be immersed in the album. Great memories I will not forget!
In April, I got to hear the whole album! I sat in my apartment bedroom alone, not wanting any company. This was an experience I wanted for myself. As In Chains started I marveled at all the wonderful sounds and bleeps that exploded from my speakers.
Sounds of The Universe was a very analog sounding record. Filled with great songs, each number took me away somewhere mentally and spiritually. The retro sounding synths gave it an almost nostalgic feel. However, it didn't come across as a retread of other Depeche Mode records. Rather, a symbiotic inclusion of retro sounds on contemporary tracks. It seemed more upbeat than the previous four records. In Sympathy and Fragile Tension especially had a great electronic groove. My favourite track though, was the ravishing ballad Come Back. The soaring vocals on this touched my soul! The deluxe version of the album contained several more amazing tracks like the spellbinding Ghost, the inspiriting Light and the techno-trance anthem Oh Well.
I fell in love with Sounds of The Universe immediately, and over the next few months I made sure to play it (and the various music videos) at many house parties and road trips. My favourite memories of the record though are the ones I have of listening to it on warm spring afternoons. During this time, my then partner would be at work. I would have the apartment to myself, to relax and be immersed in the album. Great memories I will not forget!
Seeing The Memento Mori Tour
April.18th.2023
On Thursday April the 6th, I climbed into bed knowing that the following day I would be seeing Depeche Mode live. It would be the first of three concerts I would be seeing in the span of a week. I tried desperately not to think about it, as the excitement was almost too much to bear! However, this attempt was in vain, as the impressions of what was to come kept swimming in my head.
Needless to say I did not get a great night's sleep. The next morning I got up early, as my Spouse and I were to catch a bus into Toronto. As we arrived and walked out of the station, the first thing I saw was the Scotiabank Arena. I stared at the massive building. My already immense levels of excitement began to swell to insane proportions! In mere hours I would be seated in this arena, watching Depeche Mode perform!
My Spouse and I headed to our hotel and checked in. I had been given the information of where Dave Gahan was staying in town, in case I wanted to wait outside his hotel for a quick meeting and possible autograph. As I thought about the prospect, I decided against it. I love Dave Gahan the artist, the singer, the performer... not Dave Gahan the individual. Off stage, outside of the confines of a record, he is just a mere person. On stage he is something far greater. Therefore, I decided I wanted to enjoy him in the context of a performer and wait to see him at the concert.
As the time rolled around, my Spouse and I headed to the arena. There were several gates to get inside, so the huge lines were split which allowed for a relatively quick entry. Once inside, I headed to one of the many merch booths and got a Memento Mori t-shirt. Depeche Mode music blared from these booths. It was now time to head to the floors and find our seats. I was lucky to get tickets for all three shows up close to the stage runway.
As I sat down and looked at the stage, I was in somewhat of disbelief at how close I was. It was one thing to look at the seat on a site map. It was another to be there!
As the lights got dark and the band took the stage, everyone cheered. I looked at Martin and the boys as they took the stage first. Then, I saw that familiar and striking silhouette of Dave under the dark lights. He slinked over to the microphone stand oozing charisma! My eyes teared up as I was taken by the powerful presence of Dave, the band, and the opening of My Cosmos Is Mine.
It struck me how 20 years earlier, as a young kid, I had seen Dave Gahan for the first time live on the Paper Monsters tour. When he walked out, under the dim blue lights for Hidden Houses, his silhouette caught my eye. My emotions rose and I cried tears of joy. In all the time since then... listening to the music, watching the band, buying the records, nothing had changed.
My enthusiasm never waned. Here I was, once again, in front of Depeche Mode filled with tears.
On Thursday April the 6th, I climbed into bed knowing that the following day I would be seeing Depeche Mode live. It would be the first of three concerts I would be seeing in the span of a week. I tried desperately not to think about it, as the excitement was almost too much to bear! However, this attempt was in vain, as the impressions of what was to come kept swimming in my head.
Needless to say I did not get a great night's sleep. The next morning I got up early, as my Spouse and I were to catch a bus into Toronto. As we arrived and walked out of the station, the first thing I saw was the Scotiabank Arena. I stared at the massive building. My already immense levels of excitement began to swell to insane proportions! In mere hours I would be seated in this arena, watching Depeche Mode perform!
My Spouse and I headed to our hotel and checked in. I had been given the information of where Dave Gahan was staying in town, in case I wanted to wait outside his hotel for a quick meeting and possible autograph. As I thought about the prospect, I decided against it. I love Dave Gahan the artist, the singer, the performer... not Dave Gahan the individual. Off stage, outside of the confines of a record, he is just a mere person. On stage he is something far greater. Therefore, I decided I wanted to enjoy him in the context of a performer and wait to see him at the concert.
As the time rolled around, my Spouse and I headed to the arena. There were several gates to get inside, so the huge lines were split which allowed for a relatively quick entry. Once inside, I headed to one of the many merch booths and got a Memento Mori t-shirt. Depeche Mode music blared from these booths. It was now time to head to the floors and find our seats. I was lucky to get tickets for all three shows up close to the stage runway.
As I sat down and looked at the stage, I was in somewhat of disbelief at how close I was. It was one thing to look at the seat on a site map. It was another to be there!
As the lights got dark and the band took the stage, everyone cheered. I looked at Martin and the boys as they took the stage first. Then, I saw that familiar and striking silhouette of Dave under the dark lights. He slinked over to the microphone stand oozing charisma! My eyes teared up as I was taken by the powerful presence of Dave, the band, and the opening of My Cosmos Is Mine.
It struck me how 20 years earlier, as a young kid, I had seen Dave Gahan for the first time live on the Paper Monsters tour. When he walked out, under the dim blue lights for Hidden Houses, his silhouette caught my eye. My emotions rose and I cried tears of joy. In all the time since then... listening to the music, watching the band, buying the records, nothing had changed.
My enthusiasm never waned. Here I was, once again, in front of Depeche Mode filled with tears.
As the show went on, I was struck just how energetic, powerful, and dynamic Dave was as a frontman. I was worried perhaps age would slow him down - it had been 5 years since the last DM tour. However, he was better than ever! Still a master in top form! As he came down the runway, right in front of me, I was awestruck!
As the concert ended and I headed back to the hotel, I could hear Depeche Mode's I Feel Loved blaring out of one of the bars. Another fan walking down the street was talking about the band's huge appeal to everyone from goths, to younger people, to long term fans.
When I got back to the hotel, I climbed into bed, but I could hardly sleep. I was still on a huge natural high from the concert, it was hard to simmer down.
The next day I wrote on social media:
It has been said that life without music is no life at all & that music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature can't do without. When it comes to Depeche Mode/Dave Gahan, this is ABSOLUTELY true for me! Last night I had the great pleasure of seeing Dave Gahan again, up on stage, performing and singing as the frontman of DM!
Listening to him on record is amazing - but seeing/hearing it live is truly riveting and pure euphoria! Nothing could be better! It was a truly phenomenal show! Seeing Depeche Mode in concert is pure elation of the highest form! Tomorrow and Wednesday I will be seeing them again!
DEPECHE MODE FOREVER!!!
On the 9th of April, I geared up to do it all again! I headed to Quebec City. This time with my friend B Heaslip. We arrived into town quite late, so we quickly checked into the hotel, got ready, and then headed to the Videotron Centre. Once there, we slowly moved through the huge crowds into the arena. The building seemed more colossal than Toronto. At the top of the bowl we entered and started our long walk down a huge staircase to the floors. I said our seats are up near the front. Once again, I was struck by just how close we were! I wore my ''Reach Out And Touch Dave'' shirt. Many of the fans around me chatted about how they loved the shirt. The atmosphere was even more friendly and positive than it had been in Toronto.
As the show started, I was fixated! I sang along to all the new songs (like Wagging Tongue, Speak To Me, and Ghosts Again) as well as all the fan favorites and classics. At one point, when Dave was coming down the runway, he saw my shirt and pointed at me! I yelled at my friend..... Did you see that! Dave Gahan just pointed at me!
Each song transfixed me, and every time Dave came down the runway, I was in total awe of this ultimate rock star in front of me!
Near the end of the show, Dave and Martin came to the end of the runway to perform Condemnation. I decided I would not film it. I wanted to take it all in. Tears streamed down my face and I felt myself go almost weak as the wave of power from the song hit me. This was the magic of Depeche Mode! The ability to make me feel in such a strong spirited way!
I had two days to rest until the next concert, which I severely needed! On the morning of the 12th, I headed to Montreal for the last of my Spring shows. This time I would be seeing the concert with my mother-in-law and our friend Jayme.
I brought a bag of Depeche Mode pins along with me, and handed these out to other fans I ran into downtown and at the arena. Before the show, I also met up with a few fans for beers.
When I got to the arena and sat down, I was filled with a huge sense of anticipation - after two shows already this had not diminished. This time though, there was a bittersweet tinge to my feelings. I knew it would be my last show till the Fall. I never wanted to leave this magical world. I aimed to really absorb this show! As my Cosmos Is Mine started it gave me intense chills and goosebumps!
The songs hit harder... Sister of Night and Speak To Me especially.
Every time Dave came down the runway I found myself yelling and swept up with the energy of his presence. It was a gargantuan rush!
As Never Let Me Down Again started, I not only waved my arms back at Dave during the ritualistic ending of the song, but scanned the arena. I watched with misty eyes as all the fans partook in this potent moment! This mass waving was something that Depeche Mode fans had been doing for over 30 years now. I felt lucky and proud to be doing it as part of this tour.
As the concert ended, I felt elated and sad. What a journey it had been. Three shows in three cities in the span of a week.
I felt happy that I got to go, but also that I gave away tickets to other fans for free, so they could experience it too! It was important to share this passion!
A passion I am sure will never die.
All photos in this entry taken by Matthew Ellerbeck.
As the concert ended and I headed back to the hotel, I could hear Depeche Mode's I Feel Loved blaring out of one of the bars. Another fan walking down the street was talking about the band's huge appeal to everyone from goths, to younger people, to long term fans.
When I got back to the hotel, I climbed into bed, but I could hardly sleep. I was still on a huge natural high from the concert, it was hard to simmer down.
The next day I wrote on social media:
It has been said that life without music is no life at all & that music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature can't do without. When it comes to Depeche Mode/Dave Gahan, this is ABSOLUTELY true for me! Last night I had the great pleasure of seeing Dave Gahan again, up on stage, performing and singing as the frontman of DM!
Listening to him on record is amazing - but seeing/hearing it live is truly riveting and pure euphoria! Nothing could be better! It was a truly phenomenal show! Seeing Depeche Mode in concert is pure elation of the highest form! Tomorrow and Wednesday I will be seeing them again!
DEPECHE MODE FOREVER!!!
On the 9th of April, I geared up to do it all again! I headed to Quebec City. This time with my friend B Heaslip. We arrived into town quite late, so we quickly checked into the hotel, got ready, and then headed to the Videotron Centre. Once there, we slowly moved through the huge crowds into the arena. The building seemed more colossal than Toronto. At the top of the bowl we entered and started our long walk down a huge staircase to the floors. I said our seats are up near the front. Once again, I was struck by just how close we were! I wore my ''Reach Out And Touch Dave'' shirt. Many of the fans around me chatted about how they loved the shirt. The atmosphere was even more friendly and positive than it had been in Toronto.
As the show started, I was fixated! I sang along to all the new songs (like Wagging Tongue, Speak To Me, and Ghosts Again) as well as all the fan favorites and classics. At one point, when Dave was coming down the runway, he saw my shirt and pointed at me! I yelled at my friend..... Did you see that! Dave Gahan just pointed at me!
Each song transfixed me, and every time Dave came down the runway, I was in total awe of this ultimate rock star in front of me!
Near the end of the show, Dave and Martin came to the end of the runway to perform Condemnation. I decided I would not film it. I wanted to take it all in. Tears streamed down my face and I felt myself go almost weak as the wave of power from the song hit me. This was the magic of Depeche Mode! The ability to make me feel in such a strong spirited way!
I had two days to rest until the next concert, which I severely needed! On the morning of the 12th, I headed to Montreal for the last of my Spring shows. This time I would be seeing the concert with my mother-in-law and our friend Jayme.
I brought a bag of Depeche Mode pins along with me, and handed these out to other fans I ran into downtown and at the arena. Before the show, I also met up with a few fans for beers.
When I got to the arena and sat down, I was filled with a huge sense of anticipation - after two shows already this had not diminished. This time though, there was a bittersweet tinge to my feelings. I knew it would be my last show till the Fall. I never wanted to leave this magical world. I aimed to really absorb this show! As my Cosmos Is Mine started it gave me intense chills and goosebumps!
The songs hit harder... Sister of Night and Speak To Me especially.
Every time Dave came down the runway I found myself yelling and swept up with the energy of his presence. It was a gargantuan rush!
As Never Let Me Down Again started, I not only waved my arms back at Dave during the ritualistic ending of the song, but scanned the arena. I watched with misty eyes as all the fans partook in this potent moment! This mass waving was something that Depeche Mode fans had been doing for over 30 years now. I felt lucky and proud to be doing it as part of this tour.
As the concert ended, I felt elated and sad. What a journey it had been. Three shows in three cities in the span of a week.
I felt happy that I got to go, but also that I gave away tickets to other fans for free, so they could experience it too! It was important to share this passion!
A passion I am sure will never die.
All photos in this entry taken by Matthew Ellerbeck.
Depeche Mode Take The Times!
April.14.2023
My mother-in-law recently surprised me with a package. It had been sent by her sister Debbie, to be given to me. As I opened it, I saw a large newspaper. I was delighted to see it was a lengthy article on Depeche Mode that had recently been printed in the New York Times. As I scanned the text and images, it stirred up a number of thoughts.
Firstly I was happy that those around me, the people in my life, were all acutely aware of my passion for Depeche Mode and Dave Gahan's music. So much so, that when they came across items related to the band, they immediately thought of me.
Secondly, I was pleased to see such a large article devoted to Depeche in one of the world's largest newspapers. The music business is indeed fickle. Many artists come and go in the blink of an eye. Others soldier on, but never fully get the recognition they deserve.
I was happy that after 40 years, Depeche Mode were still receiving widespread attention and acclaim. I felt similar feelings when I saw that their latest album Memento Mori had become a Top 10 hit on most of the world's album charts (hitting number 1 in ten different countries). Similarly, the vinyl had become one of the Top 10 best selling records in the UK this year.
I suppose such feelings of happiness at the band's success is akin to that of a sports fan, watching their team win. It is natural for people to find joy in watching the things that we love triumph!
My mother-in-law recently surprised me with a package. It had been sent by her sister Debbie, to be given to me. As I opened it, I saw a large newspaper. I was delighted to see it was a lengthy article on Depeche Mode that had recently been printed in the New York Times. As I scanned the text and images, it stirred up a number of thoughts.
Firstly I was happy that those around me, the people in my life, were all acutely aware of my passion for Depeche Mode and Dave Gahan's music. So much so, that when they came across items related to the band, they immediately thought of me.
Secondly, I was pleased to see such a large article devoted to Depeche in one of the world's largest newspapers. The music business is indeed fickle. Many artists come and go in the blink of an eye. Others soldier on, but never fully get the recognition they deserve.
I was happy that after 40 years, Depeche Mode were still receiving widespread attention and acclaim. I felt similar feelings when I saw that their latest album Memento Mori had become a Top 10 hit on most of the world's album charts (hitting number 1 in ten different countries). Similarly, the vinyl had become one of the Top 10 best selling records in the UK this year.
I suppose such feelings of happiness at the band's success is akin to that of a sports fan, watching their team win. It is natural for people to find joy in watching the things that we love triumph!
Getting Memento Mori
March.25.2023
On March 23rd at 4:00 am, I awoke suddenly from my sleep. I was parched, so headed downstairs for water. As I glanced at my phone I noticed that I had several new messages. They were from Depeche Mode fans informing me that the new album Memento Mori had leaked. My anticipation for the album had been so great that I simply could not wait to hear it! I ran back up stairs, grabbed my headphones and settled into my bed. I clicked play and was instantly transported to another world!
The new album was incredible! It was sonically very atmospheric. None of the songs were super commercial, although they all had an infectious element. It was classic Depeche Mode, but still very fresh sounding! The whole record was tinged with a beautiful dark sound - however, the album itself was not depressing.
This is one of the magical components of Depeche Mode. The ability to craft a record that is very bleak yet still gives off a glimmer of hope. This is not an easy task to achieve. The end result was a collection of songs that left me uplifted. I knew I would want to re-visit the album again and again!
Ever since the announcement of the new record, I had been thrilled at the notion of finally listening to it. Now that I had, I was not disappointed.
When I awoke around 11 am, I saw on social media that many fans had already received copies of the new album via their pre-orders that had arrived early.
I checked the status on my own pre-orders and was disappointed to see nothing had shipped yet. It was clear that with the release date coming up (on Friday), I would not have the new album on it's first day of release.
As such, I decided that Friday morning, I would make the 2 hour round trip to the city and would pick up the album. I figured, I would buy a few extra copies for some friends as well.
The next morning, I got up bright and early (a rarity for me) and started my journey. As I arrived at the mall, I scanned for the record store. It occurred to me, that I had never been to this mall before. As it was vast, I asked someone at one the kiosks where I could find the record store. With directions now firmly placed in my mind, I headed up to where I could finally obtain my treasure! As I walked up the stairs to the top level, I immediately saw the giant Depeche Mode Memento Mori poster in the store's glassfront.
I strolled in, and picked up two copies of the standard CD, one deluxe version of the CD, and one vinyl. After paying, I headed to the food court to sit down and look over my bounty. Mission accomplished! There is something beautiful about holding the actual record in your hand, looking over the notes, the lyrics, and taking it all in. I spent a good portion of the afternoon walking around the large mall, under it's giant sun windows, listening to the record. The filmic quality of the music, was the perfect back-drop for my travels.
On March 23rd at 4:00 am, I awoke suddenly from my sleep. I was parched, so headed downstairs for water. As I glanced at my phone I noticed that I had several new messages. They were from Depeche Mode fans informing me that the new album Memento Mori had leaked. My anticipation for the album had been so great that I simply could not wait to hear it! I ran back up stairs, grabbed my headphones and settled into my bed. I clicked play and was instantly transported to another world!
The new album was incredible! It was sonically very atmospheric. None of the songs were super commercial, although they all had an infectious element. It was classic Depeche Mode, but still very fresh sounding! The whole record was tinged with a beautiful dark sound - however, the album itself was not depressing.
This is one of the magical components of Depeche Mode. The ability to craft a record that is very bleak yet still gives off a glimmer of hope. This is not an easy task to achieve. The end result was a collection of songs that left me uplifted. I knew I would want to re-visit the album again and again!
Ever since the announcement of the new record, I had been thrilled at the notion of finally listening to it. Now that I had, I was not disappointed.
When I awoke around 11 am, I saw on social media that many fans had already received copies of the new album via their pre-orders that had arrived early.
I checked the status on my own pre-orders and was disappointed to see nothing had shipped yet. It was clear that with the release date coming up (on Friday), I would not have the new album on it's first day of release.
As such, I decided that Friday morning, I would make the 2 hour round trip to the city and would pick up the album. I figured, I would buy a few extra copies for some friends as well.
The next morning, I got up bright and early (a rarity for me) and started my journey. As I arrived at the mall, I scanned for the record store. It occurred to me, that I had never been to this mall before. As it was vast, I asked someone at one the kiosks where I could find the record store. With directions now firmly placed in my mind, I headed up to where I could finally obtain my treasure! As I walked up the stairs to the top level, I immediately saw the giant Depeche Mode Memento Mori poster in the store's glassfront.
I strolled in, and picked up two copies of the standard CD, one deluxe version of the CD, and one vinyl. After paying, I headed to the food court to sit down and look over my bounty. Mission accomplished! There is something beautiful about holding the actual record in your hand, looking over the notes, the lyrics, and taking it all in. I spent a good portion of the afternoon walking around the large mall, under it's giant sun windows, listening to the record. The filmic quality of the music, was the perfect back-drop for my travels.