What does Barrel of a Gun sound like?

A haunting blend of industrial beats and dark electronic textures that reflect the band's evolving soundscape. Rooted in alternative rock and new wave. Start with "Barrel of a Gun (single version)".

Is Barrel of a Gun a good place to start with Depeche Mode?

Yes, Barrel of a Gun is recommended as a starting point for new Depeche Mode listeners. A haunting blend of industrial beats and dark electronic textures that reflect the band's evolving soundscape. By the release of 'Barrel of a Gun' in February 1997, Depeche Mode was navigating a period of reinvention following the critical success of their previous album, 'Songs of Faith and Devotion'. This single marked their return after a four-year hiatus, during which lead singer Dave Gahan faced personal struggles, making this release significant as it re-established their presence in the music scene.

Who is Barrel of a Gun for?

Barrel of a Gun works well if you're into steady rhythmic exploration, dark atmospheric tension and haunting vocals for introspection.

How many songs are on Barrel of a Gun?

Barrel of a Gun has 5 tracks, running approximately 35 minutes.

Barrel of a Gun

Depeche Mode · 1997

35 min · 5 tracks · alternative rock

A haunting blend of industrial beats and dark electronic textures that reflect the band's evolving soundscape.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Barrel of a Gun (single version) Start here — The title track stands out for its compelling narrative about inner turmoil and existential dread, encapsulating the album’s overarching themes.
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Painkiller (Plastikman mix) — This remix exemplifies the experimental edge of the album, showcasing a fusion of techno with Depeche Mode's signature dark sound, pushing boundaries further.
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Barrel of a Gun (Underworld Soft mix) — This version reinterprets the original with a more layered and atmospheric approach, illustrating how different producers can reshape a song's impact.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The single blends dark themes with innovative production, showcasing Depeche Mode's evolving sound.

What we noticed

The title track features a steady, driving beat that underpins layered synths and haunting vocals, creating a dark atmosphere.
The remixes showcase different interpretations of the main track, with varying tempos and electronic textures that highlight the song's industrial influences.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady rhythmic exploration
dark atmospheric tension
haunting vocals for introspection
immersive late-night listening

Maybe skip if you

seeking upbeat party tracks
prefer instant gratification

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This single marked a pivotal moment, enhancing Depeche Mode's commercial success.
Themes: personal turmoil· club culture exploration· dark electronic landscapes
Career context: By the release of 'Barrel of a Gun' in February 1997, Depeche Mode was navigating a period of reinvention following the critical success of their previous album, 'Songs of Faith and Devotion'. This single marked their return after a four-year hiatus, during which lead singer Dave Gahan faced personal struggles, making this release significant as it re-established their presence in the music scene.
Stylistic neighbors: New Order· The Cure· Pet Shop Boys