Artist: Depeche Mode Album: Some Great Reward

Year: 1984
Duration: 40:39

Depeche Mode’s Some Great Reward: A Critical Review of one of their Iconic Albums

Depeche Mode has long been one of the most beloved bands in the alternative music scene. They’ve been around since the ‘80s and have produced several great albums throughout their career. One of their most iconic albums is Some Great Reward, which was released in 1984 and cemented their place as one of the leading synth-pop bands of the decade. In this blog post, we will delve into the album and review its history, style, innovative parts, and best tracks.

First, let’s take a look at Depeche Mode's history. The band was formed in 1980 in Basildon, England, and was initially a quintet. However, after the departure of several members, including songwriter Vince Clarke, the band became a trio composed of Martin Gore, Andrew Fletcher, and Dave Gahan. Their music is best described as synth-pop with an electronic sound blended with British pop, and they became recognized for their unique mix of upbeat and dark music style.

Now, let’s talk about the music genre of Some Great Reward. The album is an essential release in synth-pop music, characterized by the signature electronic rhythms, powerful vocals, and lyrics that speak about meaningful topics. This album is reminiscent of the early days of Depeche Mode, but it also shows a lot of growth in both their artistry and songwriting.

One of the most innovative parts of Some Great Reward is the way it uses the electronic rhythms to complement the lyrics. The album was the first time that the band explored politically and socially conscious themes in their songwriting, such as peace, war, and love, which wasn't typical for an electro-pop act at the time. This made it stand out as one of their most lyrically poignant albums.

As for the best tracks, People Are People is the most well-known song from the album, and it's a powerful anti-war anthem that has aged well and resonates even today. Master and Servant is another standout track, with its playful synth beats and lyrics that explore the complex dynamics between authority and submission. Another must-listen track is the closing song of the album, Blasphemous Rumours, which is perhaps the most darkly humorous track on the album, with its lyrics centering around the themes of suicide and death.

Finally, let's get into the critic of the album. While Some Great Reward is a solid record, it isn't without its flaws. Some of the tracks on the album feel a bit overstuffed, and the production isn't always as refined as it could be. Additionally, some of the songs feel a bit lacking in comparison to some other releases from Depeche Mode.

In conclusion, Some Great Reward is a worthy addition to any Depeche Mode fan's collection. The album showcases their growth as songwriters and their evolution into more socially conscious themes. While it isn't perfect, the album remains a staple in synth-pop music and paved the way for other artists to explore similar themes in their music. So, if you haven't listened to this album, make sure you give it a spin, and you might discover a new favorite track or two.

In conclusion, Some Great Reward is a worthy addition to any Depeche Mode fan's collection. The album showcases their growth as songwriters and their evolution into more socially conscious themes. While it isn't perfect, the album remains a staple in synth-pop music and paved the way for other artists to explore similar themes in their music. So, if you haven't listened to this album, make sure you give it a spin, and you might discover a new favorite track or two.