SXSW Interview: Depeche Mode

by Gary Miller

SXSW Interview: Depeche Mode

To give an idea of British electro giant Depeche Mode's influence, panel moderator and KCRW Music Director Jason Bentley recently gave an interview about his upcoming interrogation with the band. The Essex trio landed at SXSW for the first time with this panel appearance and a show Friday at Brazos Hall. With the release of 13th album Delta Machine looming, the group's SXSW appearance seemed obvious. "I think this time we are doing promotion the correct way," laughed the trio's compositional center, Martin Gore. The band discussed production for Delta Machine, indicating a return to the "Personal Jesus" aesthetic of mixing blues and electronic, something that keymaster Andy Fletcher confidently proclaimed the album carries well. Audience questions mostly dug for the 30-year secret that's kept Depeche Mode relevant. While none of the band members could provide a concrete, catch-all answer, there was an undeniable nostalgia for a golden age. "We're trying to bring back the 8-track," joked frontman Dave Gahan. "Every four years we make an album, everything has changed," Fletcher noted pointedly.

Live Shots (do these metas for each performance)

Artist / Band: Depeche Mode