Barrel of a Gun
Depeche Mode · 1997
35 min · 5 tracks · alternative rock · new wave · synth-pop
Dark, pulsating electronic textures intertwine with haunting vocals, creating an atmosphere of tension and introspection.
Why this album works
'Barrel of a Gun' achieved significant chart success, reaching the top ten in multiple countries and becoming one of Depeche Mode's most recognizable tracks. It also sparked discussions around its provocative lyrics and themes, contributing to the band's ongoing cultural relevance in the late '90s electronic music scene. The single was accompanied by several influential remixes that showcased the group's ability to adapt within the evolving landscape of electronic music.
- Best for
- steady rhythmic exploration dark atmospheric tension haunting vocals for introspection
- Context
- By the time 'Barrel of a Gun' was released in 1997, Depeche Mode was navigating a period of reinvention following the tumultuous release of their previous album, 'Songs of Faith and Devotion'. This marked their return after a four-year hiatus, during which personal struggles and lineup changes had taken a toll on the band. The album served as both a commercial comeback and an exploration of darker themes that reflected their evolving sound.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Radiohead· Robbie Williams· Muse· David Bowie· Bryan Adams· Blur· Manic Street Preachers· The Cure
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Barrel of a Gun (single version) Standout 5:30
- 2 Painkiller (Plastikman mix) Standout 8:40
- 3 Barrel of a Gun (Underworld Soft mix) Standout 6:29
- 4 Barrel of a Gun (One Inch Punch mix) 5:30
- 5 Barrel of a Gun (Underworld Hard mix) 9:36
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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