Depeche Mode’s Violator took the gothic undertones of 1985’s Black Celebration and turned it up about 11 notches to create a massive arena-ready avalanche of brooding synths that cascade throughout the entire album. We’ve mentioned this about a few bands in the past (The xx being a notable example) but Depeche Mode manages to blur the line between arrangements and aesthetics as good as any band out there. This is soundtrack music and synth pop all wrapped into one, that sounds just as good in a nightclub at 2am as it does as an introduction to a television show.

Martin Gore’s songwriting throughout Violator is the true standout. His ability to create dense living and breathing worlds that beg to be explored (at your own peril!) is a marvel of sonic ingenuity. The layers here are gripping and surreal. Layered in with Dave Gahan’s rich baritone, that sounds pained and ecstatic at the same time, and you have an album that delivers on a multitude of levels.

Standout Songs: “World in My Eyes”, “Personal Jesus”, “Enjoy the Silence”, “Policy of Truth”

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