What does It's Called a Heart sound like?

A blend of dark, pulsating synths and haunting melodies that embody the emotional complexity of love and loss. Rooted in alternative rock and new wave. Start with "It’s Called a Heart".

Is It's Called a Heart a good place to start with Depeche Mode?

Yes, It's Called a Heart is recommended as a starting point for new Depeche Mode listeners. A blend of dark, pulsating synths and haunting melodies that embody the emotional complexity of love and loss. Released on September 16, 1985, It's Called a Heart followed Depeche Mode's critically acclaimed album, Some Great Reward. At this point, the band was solidifying their place in the alternative rock and electronic music scenes, building on their previous success with an increasingly darker and more introspective sound.

Who is It's Called a Heart for?

It's Called a Heart works well if you're into wave-like pacing for deep listening, introspective moments of reflection and haunting melodies for late nights.

How many songs are on It's Called a Heart?

It's Called a Heart has 5 tracks, running approximately 29 minutes.

It's Called a Heart

Depeche Mode · 1985

29 min · 5 tracks · alternative rock

A blend of dark, pulsating synths and haunting melodies that embody the emotional complexity of love and loss.

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Top tracks — play these first

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It’s Called a Heart Start here — The title track showcases a compelling juxtaposition of upbeat synth lines against introspective lyrics about emotional vulnerability, encapsulating the album's central theme.
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Fly on the Windscreen — This track stands out with its atmospheric production and evocative lyrics that explore themes of mortality and existential dread, marking a pivotal moment in Depeche Mode's transition to darker material.
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It’s Called a Heart (extended) — The extended version allows for deeper immersion into the emotional landscape created by the song, enhancing its pulsating rhythm and intricate synth layers.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

wave-like pacing for deep listening
introspective moments of reflection
haunting melodies for late nights
dynamic exploration of emotional themes

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
seek upbeat party anthems

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — A notable single that explores darker themes but is not a standout entry point.
Themes: mid-'80s dark wave· mortality and fear
Career context: Released on September 16, 1985, It's Called a Heart followed Depeche Mode's critically acclaimed album, Some Great Reward. At this point, the band was solidifying their place in the alternative rock and electronic music scenes, building on their previous success with an increasingly darker and more introspective sound.
Stylistic neighbors: New Order· The Cure· Pet Shop Boys