It’s Easter Sunday and there’s really not a whole lot happening. Especially for a Jewish nigga guy like myself. Just been chilling and watching today’s hoop games. So far it’s been kinda disappointing.

Georgetown is taking care of Davidson and locking down on Stephen Curry. They look really tough. It would be nice to see Curry somehow get open and hit a few shots and make that one more interesting but let’s just say I’m not counting on it.

Wow! Was I wrong. What a freaking player that kid is!

Tennessee is only up five on pesky Butler. It’s now a three-point game with 12:30 left. This one could be good if they continue to hang around. I’m not expecting them to win though. Villanova took care of Siena pretty easily getting 24 from Scottie Reynolds. Who would’ve thought maybe the final team in would be in the Round of 16?

This Nike commercial is kind of cool. Makes me want to get out and just bust it.

Well, all that said, I figured it was time for another video or two from a random band I always liked. Depeche Mode is one of those bands with more of a throwback early 1980’s sound. Their music is very unique. It’s just a different sort of sound which stands out. If you’ve heard any of their stuff, then you know what I mean.

They’ve been around for three decades. Originally from Essex, England, their songs are a blend of alternative, punk, synth pop and dance. When you read that, there’s little chance it can work but then again, you’d be surprised at how they pull it off.

The original band members were lead vocalist Dave Gahan along with Martin Gore (keyboards/guitar & vocals), Andrew Fletcher (keyboards) plus Vince Clarke, who also was their songwriter as the fourth member before departing in 1981. Alan Wilder replaced him playing lead keyboards while Gore doubled as the songwriter. Wilder stayed on for 13 years until 1995. Now it’s just the trio ever since.

If you like distinct sounds on keyboards along with a solid bass plus Gahan’s great vocals, then check them out. They’ve had their share of hits over the years including the well played “Just Can’t Get Enough” which has been heard in clubs and movies.

My personal fave is “Enjoy The Silence,” which just combines all their talent putting everything on display with some pretty underappreciated drum beats as well. Oh. It’s quite popular.

Let’s take a look at these couple of big hits along with maybe a few others:

Depeche Mode: “Just Can’t Get Enough”

love the beginning as it’s just awesome. This video’s kinda comical. Pure energy.

Depeche Mode: “Enjoy The Silence-on top of the WTC”

this one definitely has special meaning for me and any New Yorker. It’s still hard to fathom that one of the most beautiful buildings is no longer around. It’s been way too long and it’s sad that they still haven’t gotten their act together and put a new one up. F*** politics! Everyone has an agenda and nothing real ever gets done.

It seems I’m not alone as this youtuber lociz1 had similar thoughts and they’re not even from here:

I’d be happy if they could rebuild those towers, they are by far the most beautiful strucktures ever made…….. nowadays skyscrapers are taking shape of bananas and what not. Who wants to have a building looking like a sail?? The arabs of course I wish they could use their oil with more conscience like pouring the oil over themself and light a match those f*cking fanatics btw im from europe and we all feel this way

If only it was just cause of that. I have so many thoughts on this issue but it’s better off being left unsaid. A waste of space.

As for the song itself, it’s definitely one of their best. Here’s a live performance from Rock Am Ring in Germany a couple of years ago:

Depeche Mode Live in Germany: “Enjoy The Silence”

just listen to the crowd. They’re into it and expend more energy than Gahan, who looks so freaking wired! Classic.

Depeche Mode: “Precious”

this is more recent off their 11th studio album Playing The Angel released a few years back. It’s got their classic sound and everything still sounds tip top from Gore’s bass to Fletcher’s keyboards and Gahan’s still very strong pipes. But even better is the video which is just really cool. It’s really them. Love the dark cloud foggy effect.

Depeche Mode: “Everything Counts”

i don’t know what goes into making their videos but they’re always interesting. It’s one of their first big hits with a lot of meaning to the words. So listen closely. To sum up, a timeless track which makes a strong point.

Depeche Mode: “Strangelove”

another nostalgic song which is pretty odd sounding. The video’s all about the chick. Wow. Is she something.

Editor’s Note: I definitely have enjoyed reviewing this unique group. It’s made watching the basketball more fun. Their style might not be for everyone but I’m one of those types who appreciates different sounds. Talent is talent. Whether it be hard rock, classic rock, alternative, heavy metal, rap/hip hop, reggae, synth pop, etc., I can always appreciate what’s being played.

Maybe it comes from taking guitar lessons as a kid. I just am big into music. I’ll be going to a Santana concert in April and also another Police concert this summer. I’m sure I’ll get out to other concerts as well. So it should be great!

One of these days, I’m going to review why The Police are one of the best groups ever IMO. Just keep an eye open for it.