Depeche Mode

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It seems as if Depeche Mode has already released numerous greatest-hits collections, but formally this is the first of its kind. Perhaps it feels that way because Depeche Mode albums play like they’re already hits sets. The Best Of spans the group’s 25-year career with 18 tracks taken from more than 10 albums, plus a bonus DVD with 23 videos and an electronic press kit. The compilation careens all over the place, starting in the late ’80s and early ’90s (“Personal Jesus”), then speeding backward to the very early ’80s (“Just Can’t Get Enough”), then jumping forward to the late ’90s (“It’s No Good”). This choice proves that Depeche Mode’s creations bridge time and space. The older tracks don’t make the group sound dated or detract from the newer material, particularly for listeners who may have important memories attached to the earlier compositions. If anything, Best Of gives fans a sense of security in knowing that Depeche Mode will probably continue to release solid material, particularly if “Martyr,” the one fresh song (with the sassy swing), is any indication.