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Sounds of the Universe cover

Sounds of the Universe

Depeche Mode

Album 2009
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About this album

Sound: "A synth-laden exploration of existential themes wrapped in atmospheric soundscapes and haunting melodies."

Where they were

'Sounds of the Universe' marked Depeche Mode's twelfth studio album, released after a four-year hiatus following 'Playing the Angel' in 2005. The band was at a critical juncture, having solidified their legacy while also embracing newer production techniques and collaborative efforts with producer Ben Hillier. This album continued their evolution into darker sonic territories, reflecting both personal and global anxieties.

Why it matters

'Sounds of the Universe' debuted at number one in several countries, including the UK and Germany, demonstrating the band's enduring commercial appeal. Critics highlighted its thematic depth and sonic cohesion, leading to nominations for various awards, including a Grammy nod for Best Electronic/Dance Album. The album also contributed to the resurgence of synth-pop influences in contemporary music.

Essential tracks

  • "Wrong" — The lead single 'Wrong' encapsulates the album's darker mood with its driving beat and introspective lyrics about regret and disillusionment.
  • "In Chains" — 'In Chains' opens the album with a brooding intensity that sets the tone for the explorations of loss and yearning throughout the record.
  • "Peace" — 'Peace' offers a contrast to the album's darker themes, featuring a more uplifting yet complex lyrical narrative about seeking solace amidst chaos.

Release Date

April 20, 2009

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Tracklist

Disc 1

  1. 1 In Chains 6:53
  2. 2 Hole to Feed 3:59
  3. 3 Wrong 3:13
  4. 4 Fragile Tension 4:09
  5. 5 Little Soul 3:31
  6. 6 In Sympathy 4:54
  7. 7 Peace 4:29
  8. 8 Come Back 5:15
  9. 9 Spacewalker 1:53
  10. 10 Perfect 4:33
  11. 11 Miles Away/The Truth Is 4:14
  12. 12 Jezebel 4:41
  13. 13 Corrupt / Interlude #5 8:58

Disc 2

  1. 1 Sounds of the Universe (a short film) 10:05
  2. 2 Wrong (video) 3:18
  3. 3 In Chains (5.1 mix) 6:53
  4. 4 Hole to Feed (5.1 mix) 4:00
  5. 5 Wrong (5.1 mix) 3:14
  6. 6 Fragile Tension (5.1 mix) 4:09
  7. 7 Little Soul (5.1 mix) 3:31
  8. 8 In Sympathy (5.1 mix) 4:55
  9. 9 Peace (5.1 mix) 4:29
  10. 10 Come Back (5.1 mix) 5:16
  11. 11 Spacewalker (5.1 mix) 1:53
  12. 12 Perfect (5.1 mix) 4:33
  13. 13 Miles Away/The Truth Is (5.1 mix) 4:15
  14. 14 Jezebel (5.1 mix) 4:42
  15. 15 Corrupt / Interlude #5 (5.1 mix) 8:59
  16. 16 In Chains (Minilogue's Earth remix) 7:53
  17. 17 Little Soul (Thomas Fehlmann flowing ambient mix) 9:19
  18. 18 Jezebel (SixToes remix) 5:31

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