вЂњSounds of the UniverseвЂќ (Mute/EMI), due April 21, is the bandвЂ™s 12th album and is reminiscent of its вЂњViolatorвЂќ heyday of catchy dance beats with a hint of darkness. And they remain one of the worldвЂ™s biggest live acts, reaching 2.8 million people in 31 countries on their last tour alone.

Along the way, theyвЂ™ve sold more than 100 million records worldwide, according to record label estimates. Together, Gahan, Gore and bassist/collaborator Andy вЂњFletchвЂќ Fletcher have almost broken up, almost died and almost been declared obsolete. That contrast between melody and melancholy is perhaps why, after 30 years, Depeche Mode is still a force to be reckoned with. Because I identify with that sentiment, wanting to lift yourself from this place.вЂќ вЂњNot necessarily in tempo, but some sort of cynical, lyrical content matched with a beautiful melody can really do it for me. WeвЂ™re all very individual, but IвЂ™ve always loved a good melancholy song,вЂќ Gahan says.

Right now, though - months before the April release of his groupвЂ™s new album, вЂњSounds of the UniverseвЂќ - heвЂ™s as composed as bandmate Martin GoreвЂ™s lyrics.вЂќ Onstage, Gahan can be a shirtless, sweaty beast.

He folds one ringed hand gently over the other and speaks in thoughtful, measured, complete sentences. Gahan, the lead singer for Depeche Mode, is a rock star and he dresses the part, in all black. The German Phonographic Academy honours artists from all over the world in 24 categories. Members of the British band Depeche Mode arrive on the red carpet for the 'Echo Music Awards' ceremony in Berlin, February 21, 2009.

Violent depeche mode songs