DEPECHE MODE DEVOTIONAL DVD MUTE, EMI, REPRISE RELEASE: SEPTEMBER 20, 2004, SEPTEMBER 21, 2004 (USA) REVIEW: OCTOBER 1, 2004

Here at last is the definitive concert release from Depeche Mode. The famed "Devotional" tour produced some serious sparks for the band: Gahan wound up nearly dead, Fletch had a nervous breakdown, Gore just about drank himself mad - and Alan Wilder departed the band not long after the tour wound up in 1994.
The sound of this DVD edition of the previously released "Devotional" is amazing, in crystal clear Dolby Digital 5.1 surround, it allows you right up on stage with the band and every little detail of this performance is rendered perfectly. Extras include yet another rambling monologue from Anton Corbijn, two bonus tracks originally included on the European release ("Halo" and "Policy of Truth"), their 1993 MTV Rockumentary, a slew of promotional videos and several live projections which were used for the tour. Unfortunately, there are no new interviews with any members of the band, but given what transpired on this tour and its aftermath, it is understandable. There also are no multiple angles to choose from but who cares? This is rock'n'roll Dave and his travelling sideshow.
But aside from all the technical details, what really grabs you is the fact of how Depeche Mode really used to be a band and not the pale shadow they have since become. Alan Wilder is sorely missed by this reviewer and witnessing his prowess behind both the keyboards and drums only reinforces my belief that the Mode's greatest days are far behind them. The updated versions of "Fly on the Windscreen" and "Everything Counts" are no doubt the product of Mr. Wilder's talents. No one can question that this era was the definitive one for DM.

PETER MARKS