What does Spirit sound like?

A brooding exploration of modern anxieties wrapped in dark synths and poignant melodies. Rooted in alternative rock and new wave. Start with "Going Backwards".

Is Spirit a good place to start with Depeche Mode?

Yes, Spirit is recommended as a starting point for new Depeche Mode listeners. A brooding exploration of modern anxieties wrapped in dark synths and poignant melodies. Released on March 17, 2017, 'Spirit' is Depeche Mode's fourteenth studio album and marks their first release since the departure of long-time collaborator Ben Hillier. The band was navigating a resurgence in their career, having enjoyed commercial success with their previous album 'Delta Machine' in 2013. This record represents a continued evolution in their sound while addressing contemporary social issues.

Spirit works well if you're into steady pacing with reflective depth, poignant themes for introspective moments and consistent journey with emotional resolution.

How many songs are on Spirit?

Spirit has 12 tracks, running approximately 49 minutes.

Spirit

Depeche Mode · 2017

49 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock

A brooding exploration of modern anxieties wrapped in dark synths and poignant melodies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Where’s the Revolution — This track serves as a rallying cry for social change, combining anthemic choruses with a pulsating beat that exemplifies the album's urgent themes.
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Going Backwards Start here — Opening the album, this song reflects on regression in society with a haunting melody and stark lyrical imagery that sets the tone for the entire project.
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So Much Love — This track contrasts darker themes with a glimmer of hope, showcasing the band's ability to blend emotional depth with infectious electronic hooks.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album explores modern anxieties through dark synths and politically charged lyrics, maintaining a cohesive yet varied sound.

What we noticed

The first three tracks establish a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the fourth introduces a more aggressive beat that shifts the album's energy.
Several tracks feature layered synths and vocal harmonies that create a dense atmosphere, particularly in 'Scum' and 'Cover Me'.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
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 pacing with reflective depth
poignant themes for introspective moments
consistent journey with emotional resolution
dark textures for late-night listening

Maybe skip if you

seeking upbeat party atmosphere
prefer instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Continues Depeche Mode's legacy with modern themes and critical acclaim.
Themes: political unrest· societal regression· urban disillusionment
Moods: Introspective· Dark
Career context: Released on March 17, 2017, 'Spirit' is Depeche Mode's fourteenth studio album and marks their first release since the departure of long-time collaborator Ben Hillier. The band was navigating a resurgence in their career, having enjoyed commercial success with their previous album 'Delta Machine' in 2013. This record represents a continued evolution in their sound while addressing contemporary social issues.
Stylistic neighbors: New Order· The Cure· Pet Shop Boys