John the Revelator / Lilian cover

Released 20 years ago

John the Revelator / Lilian

Depeche Mode · 2006

33 min · 5 tracks · alternative rock

A pulsing blend of dark wave and electronic beats that reinterprets a traditional gospel figure through a contemporary lens.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    John the Revelator (Dave Is in the Disco Tiefschwarz remix) Start here — This remix stands out with its infectious beat and rich layering, transforming the original track into a dynamic dance floor anthem while retaining its thematic depth.
  • →
    John the Revelator (Murk Mode remix) — Murk Mode's version infuses the track with a pulsating rhythm, showcasing how the song's core message can resonate in varied sonic landscapes.
  • →
    John the Revelator (UNKLE Re Construction) — This reconstruction offers a darker interpretation, adding atmospheric elements that deepen the emotional weight of the original lyrics.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

51 /100
Foothills
Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The remixes creatively reinterpret a single track, showcasing varied electronic styles while maintaining cohesion.

What we noticed

  • Each remix maintains the core vocal line from the original track while introducing distinct electronic textures and beats.
  • The first two remixes are more upbeat and dance-oriented, while the last three shift towards a deeper, more atmospheric sound.
  • The EP features a consistent tempo across all tracks, with variations in intensity and arrangement that keep listener engagement.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

running order, pacing, length

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 pulsating dance energy
  • haunting vocals for deep focus
  • gradual builds inviting immersion
  • club-ready beats for nightlife

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • dislike extended listening experiences

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — A remix EP showcasing innovative interpretations, not a main entry point.
Themes
dark electronic landscapes· club-ready beats
Career context
In 2006, Depeche Mode was riding the wave of their successful album 'Playing the Angel,' which had revitalized their career after a brief hiatus. This remix EP, released shortly thereafter, showcases their continued evolution within the electronic music sphere as they embraced a more experimental sound following their earlier work.
Stylistic neighbors
New Order· The Cure· Pet Shop Boys

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • John the Revelator (Dave Is in the Disco Tiefschwarz remix)

    The shift from collective themes of revelation to individual introspection alters the song's narrative focus dramatically.

    This change emphasizes personal connection over communal experience, reflecting a broader trend in electronic music towards individual storytelling.

Tracklist

  • 1 John the Revelator (Dave Is in the Disco Tiefschwarz remix) Start here 7:54
  • 2 John the Revelator (Murk Mode remix) 7:16
  • 3 John the Revelator (UNKLE Re Construction) 5:02
  • 4 John the Revelator (Boosta club remix) 4:50
  • 5 John the Revelator (Tiefschwarz dub) 8:13

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata