Depeche Mode - Memento Mori - Review

[@john_nate]

"Soul With Me "was the song that made me say wow out loud upon the first listen to this magnificent record. So to each their own, but that said, it's also another proof that Memento Mori is a masterpiece, and the best record DM's put out in years. Out of curiosity, has anyone noticed that the D and M letters in the band's name can now be interpreted as those standing for Dave and Martin, no matter how bittersweet it sounds?

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Well said, I van. Yes, total proof as to the quality of this album. I didn't think of that connection on D M, but yeah you're right. Wow. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.

[@john_nate]

​@@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog Sure, thanks for the review. I'm collecting my thoughts to put into an album review on my radio show. I believe I'm ready but somehow am still a little hesitant to reach out and touch the beauty that Memento Mori is... Anyway, cheers from Lviv, Ukraine.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Right on! Good luck with your show!

[@jeremycasper8686]

I thought of this too! dm forever!!

[@marcusorme261]

Yep, likewise!

[@violator906]

MM has been on repeat since a couple of days❤. I really love it. The sound, the retro vibe, the production, the atmosphere, Daves vocals. No fillers. MM is DMs best album since Ultra. Some days i even rate it higher than Ultra😅. Favourites this far: People are good, Never let me go, Before We drown, Always you, Dont say you love me and Speak to me🥰

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Excellent! Thank you for watching and letting me know your favorite songs.

[@jeremycasper8686]

I really like Soul With Me!! I wasn’t sure at first, but like many of Martin’s songs, it is growing on me. I now turn it up and sing along and love it! I DO see what you’re saying though. It’s not like the ones you mentioned. It’s not easily accessible like many of Martins lovely songs. I do hope we get another album with a Martin song like Home, The Bottom Line, Things you said, Q of Lust, Somebody, etc. Soul with me is more along the lines of Macro or Damaged People. But it’s growing on me and it’s lovely.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Glad to see you’re enjoying SWM. Every time it comes on, I’m like “whoa this intro is really nice,” but then when the vocals enter it takes me right out. :)

[@LADOBMELOMANOS]

Glad you liked it so much, Bret. It's definitely the Depeche Mode album we've been waiting for decades! I've been spinning it non-stop since it came out. I'll publish my official review this Tuesday (and all my videos in April will be about DM - my favorite band of all time), but I agree wholeheartedly with your thoughts. The dark, ominous, and brooding vibe with glimmers of synthpop brilliance ("Ghosts Again," "Always You") takes me back to their peak era. I was with you the first time I listened to "Soul With Me." But now, even if it's not at the same level as Martin-led songs like "A Question of Lust" or "One Caress," I like it a lot. And yeah, I feel you about the price of the vinyl. But at least the quality of the whole thing is top-notch. P.S. We need a video of your favorite DM songs of all time! Please!

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks Lado! I have another DM video planned for next week - I think you’ll enjoy. I didn’t consider doing a “Best Songs” edition, so I will be pondering that. Thank you!

[@LADOBMELOMANOS]

@@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog looking forward to watching it!

[@shinjy07]

Always you...what a song! Phenomenal album. Great review, but I thought Soul with Me was excellent. One of the stand-out tracks for me. Never has a song about death sounded so brilliant.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Chris!

[@influences_podcast]

LOVE LOVE LOVE “Always You”! Best track on the album!

[@modehead101]

Great review. This is easily the best Mode album since Ultra. Superb stuff and I think that Martin's lead track Soul With Me is the best one he's sung since Home and I wouldn't have left that gem off the final cut. My absolute fave track is Before We Drown but there isn't a weak track on Momento.

[@fastica]

Exactly! It's the DM album I was expecting since Ultra. Previous albums had some good compositions, but sonically were quite boring.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts. It's a great album for sure! :)

[@Thunderstruckzzz]

Hi Brett …. Excellent review ! I am loving the album ! First off thank you for mentioning the poster in the middle panel of the vinyl ! I had no idea it was there ! I paused the video and looked and there it was ! Thank you ! Fav songs are Ghosts Again , Caroline’s Monkey, People Are Good and Always You but I love it all. My Cosmos Is Mine is a fantastic opening track and Speak To Me closes the album in great fashion ! Soul With Me is ok but maybe breaks the flow of the album with where it’s sequenced. What an amazing album ! I also bought the cd for the car and to put in my phone. Between this and the U2 last week we are certainly getting quality releases lately ! Alls we need now is a new Crue album to complete the trifecta ! Hopefully soon ! Thank you Brett ! Have a great week ! Chez

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Hey Chez! Haha! Yeah, that elusive poster. I remember hearing something shifting around when I first opened it up and just thought it was one of the inner sleeves. A cool little discovery. Yeah, all of the songs you mentioned are excellent. I would've preferred "Soul with Me" as a b-side, but oh well. :) So great to have something new from DM and U2 definitely. Can you believe it's been 15 years since the last Cure album?

[@mattford1593]

I'm really enjoying the album. I think it's their best in quite a long time! People Are Good is a brilliant track and probably my favourite. Very Kraftwerk as you say, and I love the vintage synth sounds all across the record. It's definitely classic DM but with a great modern production.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Agreed, Matt. There have been some solid tracks spread across the last handful of albums, but there's something special about this one in its entirety. Thanks for watching!

[@jenshappyplace4393]

I completely agree with your review. I’m okay with the chorus of Soul With Me (after quite a few listens), but I saw a comment somewhere that Martin sounds like he’s singing on a cruise ship, which I sadly agree. Dave could probably improve the song with his baritone. All in all, though, this DM fan is really happy with MM! Thanks for posting your review. ❤

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

You're welcome! Thank you for watching. :) Yeah, I'd be curious to hear a version with Dave on lead vocals for "Soul With Me." Cruise ship - haha!

[@murrynathan]

MM is DM’s Vocal Masterpiece! Martin is in every track and the way he and Dave are mixed is amazing. The more I listen the more I hear. And all the gurgling synth i love is in there as well, not buried, but out of the way of the vocals. I keep hearing comparisons, but this album is its own thing. My Cosmos & Before We Drown are my new favorite songs. Thanks to Never Let Me Go we know what a DM James Bond theme would sound like. Wagging Tongue is straight up Kraftwerk. My favorite stranger has a sinister Sister of Mercy vibe, and People Are Good made a grown man dance in his bedroom.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Hey Murry! I enjoyed your comments here. Gonna keep in mind what you said about James Bond / The Sisters on those tracks on my next listen. Thanks for watching and keep on dancing! :)

[@laurence.MusicAndSights]

The perfect digest from a specialist as it were. Thumbs up...devotee since 1980 aged 11 in France and MM is as you evoke it. Lost for words here, so emotional...English was learnt so as to grasp the gist of their 1st albums. So grateful to have aged with them, better than ever, could ramble on MM for hours...greetings and congratulations from The Eurockéennes site , I live at 15km from it. Well done to The Master here on this site 🎉

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thank you for watching, Laurence. If you're interested, I just posted a ranking video for all 15 DM albums: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aoSnnHeEncigadk - :)

[@laurence.MusicAndSights]

@@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog you are not the "darkest ⭐ star" from DM s SOTU one of my most symbolic songs from them but a gardian Angel 👼 . Thanks for the link that will be watched ASAP as it is Easter soon. MM is often on the hifi, in my car. While many remixes are downloaded on my channel....Love " never let me go " too for another reason. Martin s backvocal are from another galaxy. People are good is incredibly true, a metaphore for the devil within humanity. I m not footing myself to see you as you are. An excellent warm hearted music analyst. In France, some fans give Memento Mori a C+ , their ears are not sharp or they cant understand the intensity, irony or figures of speech inhérent of this masterpiece. Love from France. I ll take a look at your channel as I m eager for album s reviews. Music has saved my life. Not only DM...

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Laurence. Memento Mori is an A in my book. :)

[@pc31thevinylpoliceman]

Brilliant video Bret, I really enjoyed it. Wasn’t sure about this one, but after watching your video I will pick this up tomorrow. Mike🎸

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks Mike! I'll be curious to hear your thoughts once you've had some time with it. Thanks for watching! - Bret

[@jeremycasper8686]

People keep saying best album since Ultra. How did we bypass Playing The Angel?? THAT album is the best dm album this century! PTA has it all - perfect combination of dirty bass lines, electronics, guitar, and vocals. Memento Mori is an AMAZING album. I give it a solid gold rating. And Ultra is also an amazing album. Just saying, let’s not forget how good PTA is. SOTU, Exciter, and Delta Machine also have AMAZING tracks, but as albums as a whole fall a little short of the great albums like PTA, Ultra, SOFAD, Violator, MFTM and Black Celebration. Great review btw! I’m stoked to see them live in November!

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Playing the Angel is outstanding. :) I'll be doing a followup video on DM in a few days. Thanks for watching, Jeremy!

[@staceym4469]

Just saw them last night! I absolutely love this album ! Blown away. My fave is Never Let Me Go , has a Joy Division vibe in my opinion . I tend to gravitate towards the middle to the end of album !

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Excellent! "Never Let Me Go" is a total Joy Division vibe. In fact, that drumbeat definitely conjures up some "She's Lost Control" doesn't it? If you haven't already seen, I did a DM ranking video as well: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aoSnnHeEncigadk

[@staceym4469]

@@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog yes absolutely and I watched that video ! So great ! I need to do my own ranking lol

[@willg8637]

Great review. Saw them a few days ago at Twickenham (UK) and hadnt even heard the album. Agree with you on SOul with Me, personally Carolines Monkey is the other low point, not mad on it. Ghosts Again and People are Good are obvious standouts, but Speak to Me is the real hidden gem, one of the most beautiful yet haunting songs I have heard by anybody

[@influences_podcast]

You’re BANG ON with “Soul with Me” but I’m also probably the only Depeche Mode fan who can’t get into “Caroline’s Monkey”. My favourite track is “Always You”; I started singing along right from the first listen! Very good record! Best since Ultra I’d say!

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks for watching, Jason!

[@NoodleaDoodle]

Call me crazy but i think Always You is the best Depeche Mode track ever written

[@NuminaSpace]

Great review. As a long-time hardcore fan myself, it's been interesting - and sometimes frustrating - reading all the various reviews and opinions on this album. For me, it is their best album since ULTRA. Interestingly, while I quite like everything on the album, I find "Ghosts Again" to be the weakest track and "Soul With Me" absolutely awesome and a quintessential DM track at the top end of the stronger tracks. So yes, you're wrong on that! ;-) You brought up a point I hadn't considered though, that "Soul With Me" doesn't fit with the rest of the vibe of the album is probably intentional. While still moody. yet uplifting DM, it's something of a mid-way break from the album's darker doom and gloom (which is classic Depeche). It's Martin's song of hope and release from all the earthly torment as he accepts getting closer to the "ever after". Right now, the strongest tracks for me are "Soul With Me", "Before We Drown", "Always You", and "Never Let Me Go".

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

I appreciate your take on everything. Fascinating to see our polarizing thoughts on “Ghosts” and “Soul” - a testament to how much this album (and DM in general) have to offer. Thanks for watching!

[@chanticlere]

You introduced me to Richard Butler's solo album, which really spiked my interests in the Furs. I didn't look at this to see his involvement. Can't wait to see them live and DM in September.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Hey Will, totally disappointed that they're not coming to Phoenix, but cool that you'll be seeing them on this tour. Happy to hear that I was the gateway to that Richard Butler album for you - up there with one of my favorites of all-time.

[@Dagger-Deep]

Fantastic album by my all-time favorite band. 🌹🖤

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Indeed! Thanks for watching.

[@intermats]

Great review Brett. I agree the song Ghosts Again IMO is their best single since Precious 2005 and the album I will say their best production since Playing The Angel. I got my vinyl copy last Saturday and same complain about the high price but all was forgotten when I played it. When Ghosts Again played I had that feeling of all my hair standing up even though I had heard in spodify and youtube but is not the same when you listen analog at high volume. I will also put that song in my top 10 DM favorites so far. My favorites besides Ghosts Again are two more of Butler/Gore lyrics: My Favorite Stanger and Caroline's Monkey also Wagging tongue, People are Good and Never Let Me Go.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Joe, "Precious" would be my go-to as to the greatest song of "modern-era / post 2000" Depeche Mode as well.... until now with "Ghosts Again." Great to hear we're on the same page with everything you mentioned. Be sure to check-in again next week, as I'm planning another DM video. Thanks for watching!

[@squarrie]

The release of "Ghosts Again" set the scene for an excellent album that is true to form! It's exhilarating to follow the positive response to MM and the excitement & enjoyment it is bringing to long-time fans. I have to give some love to "Before We Drown" that was written by Dave, Christian Eigner & Peter Gordeno who are DM's touring/session drummer & keyboard player.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Well said, SQ. Excellent shout-outs to those two guys that have been playing with the band since the late 90s.

[@joshuawilliams7351]

It is bringing excitement & enjoyment to New fans as well. I've always liked Enjoy the Silence but I'm only beginning to listen to their albums now, and it's because of Ghosts Again and Memento Mori.

[@joshuawilliams7351]

I thought you were rag on Caroline's Monkey as the weak spot, but I like that one. You called out Soul With Me as the weak spot. I can't agree. I bought it in a record store for $34, same edition you have there. I saw them in Chicago but left after a few songs. I don't know why. I'll try again in NYC twice and Cleveland. I have Violator and Songs of Faith and Devotion is coming in the mail. I'm trying to decide if I should get Ultra or the Ultra Singles collection. Any opinion if which of those to get? The complete album or 4 singles from it with endless remixes for 3-10x the price depending on if I get the album in vinyl or cd.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Hey Joshua. Personally I'd go for the regular Ultra album. Not the biggest fan of multiple remixes of the same tracks.

[@joshuawilliams7351]

Agreed. That's what I decided to do. The singles would have cost $108 and each of the 8 records only has the variations of one song on it, so it would be tedious to keep changing the licorice pizzas. In Chicago I heard "It's No Good" & "Sister of Night" from Ultra and "My Cosmos is Mine" & "Wagging Tongue" from Momento Mori. I ordered Ultra and Playing the Angel.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

It’d be cool if they released a complete collection of all of the b-sides / non-album tracks (minus the remixes). Playing the Angel is sooo good.

[@J_Mayhem]

I was at their first show on this tour in Sacramento and I remember hearing Soul With Me live and I didn't like it at all. It's a very stripped down version. I hadn't heard the album yet because it hadn't been released. I was like oh no....but I do have to say, it has grown on me. But you are right about the "adult contemporary" aspect. I certainly feel they could have made it a little more weird- something along the lines of Judas. One of my favorite tracks lyrically and musically is Don't Say You Love Me. So good to my ears!! I also really love People Are Good!! The whole album is great. The production is excellent and the vocal performances are the best to date IMO.

[@DigitalMadrigal]

Always You is stellar. Could easily be on Black Celebration or Some Great Reward.

[@itdosentmattertwo]

No, it couldnt...

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

"Always You" is a gem as well, DigitalMadrigal. I don't think I mentioned in the video, but yes... excellent.

[@ninawildr4207]

Soul with Me is awesome imo ! Love it...has a 70s Beatleesque vibe but a la Mode ...I love that they are branching out...thats what DM always does...try to challenge the listener...everything else I agree with you...Im obsessed with MM and I think its best album since Ultra...loved your video❤

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks for watching, Nina! I'll be returning with another DM video this coming week. I think you'll enjoy! :)

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

New video posted! A ranking of all 15 DM albums: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aoSnnHeEncigadk

[@guitardds]

The more I listen too it, the more I’m convinced that this is the album that should have followed Violator. Definitely I’d say My Favorite Stranger and Caroline’s Monkey make me hit repeat the most!

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Great tracks there!

[@carlosalenduran4630]

For me the album is phenomenal it's it's phenomenal I am in love with this album it's kind of like they wrote it for me I love the artwork I love all the songs Carolyn monkey's beautiful I love that 1 I love the whole thing right now I don't have a favorite because I've only listened to it 3 times but let me tell you it's a masterpiece for me is a masterpiece

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Happy to see you're enjoying it as well, Carlos!

[@carlosalenduran4630]

@@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog thank you so much

[@brfts2001]

I think this album is a true return to form for the guys at the twilight of their careers. 2nd half is solid in particular. The previous three albums were really lacking for me and I think this is the best album since Ultra! Have a feeling this might be their last, so I'm planning to attend the Denver show as my friend got a pair of tickets and is willing to sell at a reasonable price!

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Right on! I bet the show will be amazing!

[@jeremycasper8686]

I hope it’s not their last!! They are in top form. I would LOVE another album! Can’t wait for the 4 unreleased tracks!!

[@hiartontheedge]

Hi Bret. What do you get when you merge Psy Furs, 'Made of Rain', and DM's, Memento Mori? Fantastic surprises. Simple. After the previous 3 hiccups, this album is a fabulous return to the past and present future. I appreciate its minimal approach, never feels over-bloated with unnecessary electronica. D. Gahan's voice sounds utterly experienced and truly shines on many of the tracks. It restored my faith and strengthened my devotion. Thanks for sharing your input. 3.5/5 Wings

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Ha! Is that you, WF? Thanks for watching!

[@hiartontheedge]

@@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog I have always enjoyed your videos. Entertaining and educational.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Much appreciated!

[@neilsun2521]

I actually agree about Soul With Me. Usually I really enjoy the Martin moments but that track passed me by. (And regarding the price, they seem to want out-of-print prices when it's new. )

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks for watching, Nell. If you didn't catch it, I did a DM album ranking video the other day: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aoSnnHeEncigadk

[@elbosausage]

I've really enjoyed the new album. "Caroline's monkey" "People are good" and "Ghosts again" are my favorites. I remember your review of Delta Machine years ago and I love your admiration of Depeche Mode. I have to agree that "Ghosts again" is one of their best songs...ever. I started tearing up when I saw/heard the video the first time. It's amazing how much a band can move your soul to tears sometimes. I cried for a week over Fletch. Memento Mori is almost a healing. I can't wait to see them in Dallas October 1st. Taking my wife for her first time to see them. Great review Brett. And thank you!-gary/texas

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Gary! Great to hear from you and thanks for the kind words. I've been watching some of the live video clips from the first few shows of the tour so far... and they sound incredible. That Dallas show is going to be an amazing experience for you and your wife. We're a bit disappointed as a Phoenix date has not been included. Hopefully one will be added. Thanks again for watching. I enjoyed hearing your thoughts on MM as well. - Bret

Great review, thank you. I don't know why they chose My Cosmos is Mine as a second single and as the first track. Not my favorite at all. Wagging Tongue, Ghosts Again, Favorite Stranger and People are Good are my favorites so far.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks Jose! I agree on the second single. "People are Good" would've been my choice, or "Wagging Tongue." Thanks for watching!

[@eelponna3145]

It’s their best since SOFAD - no DM album has hit me on this level since 93!

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

So good!

[@marcusorme261]

Great review, amazing album but couldn’t disagree more about ‘Soul With Me’ - for me is by far the most interesting and original song on the album. To each their own I guess. Very grateful to DM for making this album 😊

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks for watching, Marcus

[@wkbowdoin]

It's funny that you compared Wagging Tongue to OMD. When I first heard it, I felt that there was something familiar about it, and it then hit me that pretty much every OMD song off of English Electric starts like that. It also has an OMD styled hooky chorus that DM haven't done in a long time. I used to like the Marting Gore songs, but I find his singing to be insufferable these days with the strange warbling that used to not exist. Still it is their best (IMO) since Playing the Angel.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Yeah, English Electric is one of my favorite OMD records. Took me a few listens to MM and then the comparison finally clicked for me. Thanks for watching!

[@stonail665]

Good review. Soul with me is my favorite track.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Right on. Thanks for watching!

[@rloewen]

Definitely not the first negative towards Soul With Me that I've seen, but for me its far from being a weak track. Obviously each style of song is going to hit us differently. I've never considered skipping it once, though I may not always endure the long ending. Even My Favourite Stranger and Caroline's Monkey (which are my least favourite tracks) have something in them I enjoy. For me the last 4 tracks have become the favourite part of the album. Whether its the retro feel of People Are Good or the amazing vocals on Speak to Me, I can just lose myself there for 20 minutes.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks Russ! I enjoyed reading your thoughts on the album. Thanks for watching.

[@leebfrontline]

Soul with me What a track my favorite in the album It touches

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks for sharing your favorite track!

[@garrapaterorulez5017]

Looking forward to pick up the new DM! I’m not sure if you heard, but The Cult self titled will be sometime this May. Cheers JC/Miami

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Hello JC! I sure did hear about the s/t Cult album and pre-ordered it within minutes of the announcement. Did you catch my Cult Album Ranking video? If not: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iYqQiWWJg9qoqqM - thank for watching!

[@garrapaterorulez5017]

@@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog Hey Bret! yeah I saw that video last week.. that's why it prompt me to let you know LOL Cheers!

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

I had a feeling! Haha!

[@mozzer1980]

An excellent album. I will not discover America if I repeat after a huge number of people who like DM that this is their best LP since Ultra. While on the three previous albums (Sound, Delta, Spirit) I had huge problems to like any song, than every song on Memento is very good. My Top 3 from MM is : Speak to Me ( the best album - closing song they ever made ) , Before We Drown and Never Let Me go ( Joy Division influence ) .

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

That's a solid Top 3 song list from MM.

[@HansKuijf]

I like Never Let Me Go and Ghosts Again the most. And yes we have the vinyl too and love it.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Glad you're loving the new album, Hans. Thanks for watching! Be sure to check out my DM album ranking video as well: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aoSnnHeEncigadk

[@marcomaccari1429]

Are Depeche Mode very famous in the United States? In Europe they are very famous especially in Germany and Italy

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Hi Marco. Yes, they're quite famous. Maybe not a household name like U2, but pretty close in my estimation.

[@marcomaccari1429]

@@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog I live in Siena in Italy....they are very famous here. Ciao

[@DxModel219]

I agree… Dark, minimal, retro but I rate it 6/10 because it is missing warmth and light. Martin needs someone to balance him out and stir him towards the light in his Dark songs. Dark songs in Black Celebration and Violator had warmth and an uplifting part of it… this Album was all Dark and Cold except for Ghosts.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@mirceapintelie361]

Well it is called MEMENTO MORI-remember you'll die🧐I think its on point, we're talking about them at 60+.do you expect them to write songs like they are 20 or 30 years old?

[@DxModel219]

@@mirceapintelie361 yes i do expect them to write good music.

[@jetjaguar72]

Holy crap, Soul with Me is so amazing! Lolol! Gotta love the subjective nature of music.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Subjective indeed! Thanks for watching, Robert!

[@outoftheunknown3155]

$160 Australian dollars for this one, which is extraordinarily high. More than double what I would normally consider paying for a record. Loving the Richard Butler co-writes - I can hear him singing Ghosts Again in my head, like a big melancholy sigh...

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Hey Matt, 160??!! Yikes. Yes, can also totally hear RB's voice fitting into those songs. I'm hoping someday there will be demos of those 4 songs with Richard Butler on vocals. Thanks for watching.

[@jdestiny10153]

Can't wait to hear the four remaining songs that were recorded, I'm sure one of them will be better than People are good...😉😜

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

I'd love to hear the demos featuring Richard Butler on vocals.

[@easytigeruk123456789]

It's a brilliant album, every track is good, really Well produced, it flows so well as a body of work. Best album they have done in years.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks for watching!

[@J_Mayhem]

I absolutely agree!!

[@fastica]

First time I see a reviewer criticizing Soul With Me. I like it. It's the typical "dissonant" Gore song. It's not a masterpiece, but it's like DM comfort food.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Hello Federico! They’re not all going to hit us in the same way, but I’m glad to see you’re enjoying “Soul with Me” and the album! Thank you for watching and sharing your thoughts.

[@thelord982]

I agree with most of your thoughts on the album, but I disagree that "Soul with Me" is the weakest song - the total opposite, I feel like it's one of the biggest surprises and the top 3 songs on the album. Full of tasty feelings. Interesting how people hear things differently :)

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Yes, it's always fascinating the effect that music has on each individual. Glad you're enjoying it! Thanks for watching.

[@alfredogonzalez3421]

Right on, great review

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks Alfredo!

[@michaelbruce6190]

People are Good is my favorite song on MM.... Wagging Tongue is my second favorite. This is a fantastic album, not a bad song on it.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Both great choices. If you haven't already seen my DM Album Ranking: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aoSnnHeEncigadk - and I also posted a song ranking as well. Thanks for watching!

[@gregorypyk1832]

My fav : Before We Drown, Speak to Me and Never let me Go.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Great choices.

[@mtennantmusic]

For me it's their best since playing the angel maybe even ultra.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks for watching, Michael.

[@fatorangecat]

Soul with Me was just average to me until I heard it live in concert. That version was so much better and we were almost in tears hearing him sing it and thinking about Fletch. It's too bad the album version wasn't as strong. Overall I think it's a great album and have been listening to it on repeat since it came out.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

I'll have to seek out a live video to watch of "Soul with Me" from the tour.

[@delphineg3045]

According to my tastes : 1) 101, 2) Memento Mori, 3) Ultra On this new album, I like all of them but more especially Ghosts again and My cosmos is mine.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks for watching, Delphine! Great choices.

[@hectorThechilldudeonacouch]

Ghosts again is just a perfect track and it needed to be that first single.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

It totally is. Thanks for watching, Chill Dude!

[@nathanadlerinc2790]

Soul with me is fantastic and fits perfectly with the entire retro/dark sound. I think Ghosts Again is the weakest. But NOT bad. So goes to show different tastes. Speak to me is my fave. And its very hard to name a group/artist where EVERY album is great...DM is one

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Nathan Adler.... oh Ramona!

[@nathanadlerinc2790]

@@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog well...."there's was always something between us"

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

What an album.

[@nathanadlerinc2790]

@@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog my favourite. It got me into Bowie.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Right on. Saw him live for the first of 3 times on that tour. Amazing.

[@danielthommen8243]

DM - Sound of my life... Memento Mori is the best album for a LONG time, if not their best...

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Right on, Daniel. Thanks for watching.

[@risboturbide9396]

Thank you 🍻🍻

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

You’re welcome! Thanks for watching.

[@williamdavies1192]

Not feeling MM at all outside of Ghosts again. Lots of nice elements but to me it feels like an album of B-sides. I can’t see a single track off this album making it onto any of their great albums (83-93).

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks for watching, William.

[@corycardwell]

The album is just to dark for me. I know they were mourning the loss of their friend but geesh if I wanted to be depressed this is the album to listen to. Even though there have been darker lyrics in the past, the music that went with them wasn’t like going to a funeral. Maybe it will grow on me.

[@matsfrommusic]

I didn't get Ghost again at all when it came out and after listening to the album more than enough times I can't say I find any of the tracks to my liking really, and that is something that has never happened before with DM. Even on Sounds of the universe there's 2-3 songs, Ghost and fragile tension for instance. I do very much like the sound and the sounds of MM, it's actually better than ever in a way, but song wise it doesn't do anything for me I'm sorry to say, and therefore MM ends up being their worst album weirdly enough.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks for watching and sharing your opinion, Mats.

[@jackiewarner1293]

My favorite songs from Depeche Mode is my cosmos is mine and ghost again and people are good and I truly think Dave gahan singing voice is so good and the beats 🎧 are awesome and I truly think depetche mode new album is good and Andy fletcher will always be our hearts ♥️ and i truly think Dave gahan and Martin gore working together is awesome 😎 and Depeche Mode will always be forever ♾ band in the past and future

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thank you for watching, Jackie! Yes to everything you wrote. :)

[@jackiewarner1293]

@@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog THANK YOU 😊

[@Taikiman1]

Not a bad album by DM didn’t like the bluesy Dave solo. Never let me go was the album’s stand out song !!!! Speak to me, was a great ending to MM and I guess song to Andy Fletcher.. M Gore can still write great songs….. DM have always had superior production for every album they have released!!!! 8/10

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Nick. I posted a complete DM album ranking video the other day as well: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aoSnnHeEncigadk

[@NuckyNackles]

I love everything except Caroline’s Monkey. It reminds me too much of that silly Zombie Room song from Exciter

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks for watching, Nick!

[@jimshilts]

Definitely disagree about Soul With Me. That song sticks in my head every time I listen to the album. It makes me think of some thing Marc Almond would do. My cosmos is mine is the only one that I skipped. They should’ve dumped that onto the end of the album or taken it off completely.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Jim.

[@MrMissingReel]

Funny....."Caroline's Monkey" is my least favorite....it sounds unfinished to me and the lyrics are....somehow goofy. I wouldn't miss anything without the monkey.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks for watching. I dig that track. My lyrical interpretation is of the metaphorical monkey and the Caroline character's struggle with addiction. What was the standout song for you?

[@MrMissingReel]

@@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog I like "Never let me go" and "Speak to me" very much...actually I like most of the songs but "Caroline's Monkey"...it's simply not my cup of tea.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Fair enough! Thanks for sharing your favorites.

[@lovepulse]

Soul with Me is the weakest song for me too. I wanted to like it, but agree the verse section is so out of place and rather un-Gore. Before We Drown is magic, Dave struck gold with that one!

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Agreed! Thanks for watching. Just posted a DM album ranking video on the channel, if you’re interested.

[@arakaneuman]

1 violator. 2 black celebration. 3 some great reward. 4 music for the masses. All albums after Ultra are total crap, about as interesting as a random Dire Straits or Status quo album. The sadest moment in music history is when Alan Wilder left DM, 😟.

[@thesynthfloyd]

It's no use talking good about the album. Time will come and show, they died in Ultra.

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

There’s not a good moment on the album for you? Or a song you’ve liked since Ultra?

[@abrokenframe1]

Probably a hater or an Alan Wilders fanboy. Its not possible have a conversation with those . Alan Wilders fanboys did not get over alans departure. 30 years . Since ULTRA I did read The EXACTLY same stuff inside The Internet foruns about every álbum dM release

[@thesynthfloyd]

@@abrokenframe1 you analyzed me right! I feel naked in the crowd, I'm so vulnerable. I'm a musician, I have a studio, I was a DM fanboy, but today, it's not albums and albums with TR606 grooves and repeated lyrics and formulas that will convince me. I have my vision of the process, I am no longer a fanboy cataloger or police of the opinion of others. thanks broken for framed me. Cheers!

[@thesynthfloyd]

@@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog Home? Maybe...

[@TheAdArchive]

The album is garbage and people are only being kind as this will likely be their last album.

[@abrokenframe1]

"People are only being kind" kkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk why are you here kkkkkkk

[@nikeu6077]

T shirt is best

[@BretHelmsLifeOnThisPlanetBlog]

Thanks Nik! Bowie forever.