Depeche Mode ‘Memento Mori’: Discogs’ 4th best-selling album of 2023

Depeche Mode fifteenth studio album, “Memento Mori,” released on 24th March 2023, signifies a creative renaissance. The album, stylized as “Memento|Mori,” produced by James Ford, marks the band’s return after a six-year hiatus since 2017’s “Spirit.” The anticipation was heightened with strategic single releases, including “Ghosts Again” and “My Cosmos Is Mine,” leading to the album’s release on Columbia.

Tragically, the album takes a poignant turn as it is the first to be recorded and released as a duo following the sudden death of co-founder and keyboardist Andy Fletcher on 26th May 2022. Despite Fletcher’s absence, the album stands as a testament to Depeche Mode’s resilience, creativity, and adaptability, positioning itself as a unique entry in the band’s history.

This creative journey also saw unexpected collaborations, with Richard Butler co-writing four tracks. While Butler never intended to join the band, the exceptional quality of their collaborative efforts prompted their inclusion in “Memento Mori.” The thematic undercurrent of mortality, accentuated by Martin Gore’s contemplations and influenced by the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, adds a layer of depth to the album.

Beyond its artistic triumphs, “Memento Mori” shines commercially, earning a coveted spot among Discogs’ Best-Selling Albums of 2023. This dual success in both musical innovation and market impact solidifies Depeche Mode enduring influence and relevance in the ever-evolving landscape of electronic music.