CD Review: Depeche Mode "Remixes 81-04"

One thing the true Depeche Mode fan can appreciate is that with every hit single there would be several remixes by any number of famous producers attached to it. To be frank, Depeche Mode have become godfathers of the remix by taking an already danceable track and bringing it to a new level.

After two decades of essential songs that have become anthems for the masses, Depeche Mode have released a definitive collection of their finest remixes for either the casual listener in a single-disc version or the true fan in a limited edition 3-CD set.

What makes a Depeche Mode remix worth a listen is the effort of the remixer in the process. For instance, when Jack Dangers of Meat Beat Manifesto works his techno magic on “Rush” or The Beatmasters do their “house-work” on “Route 66”, its as if Depeche Mode has allowed the remixer to perform their own version of the song without losing the basis of the original tune.

The collection contains several songs that were once available only as b-sides as well as a handful of new remixes by Air, Timo Maas, Goldfrapp and Mike Shinoda of Linkin Park – all with their own special touch to each song making it their own unique contribution.