| ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. | |
| PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. | |
| OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. | |
| NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Parents need to know that this album is filled with Christian imagery and symbolism with an alternative slant; comfort levels may vary.
Depeche Mode's first new album in four years, PLAYING THE ANGELS, is exquisite, and sure to delight hard-core fans.
Filled with provocative Christian imagery and spiritual symbolism, the lyrics might challenge the comfort levels of some conservative families, but will excite and inspire most songwriters and music lovers. The tracks are all interesting, well-crafted, wonderfully performed, and flawlessly produced. Musical high points include the stunning gospel-tinged rocker "John the Revelator" -- "By claiming God as his holy right/he's stealing a God from the Israelites/stealing a God from the Muslim too/There is only one God, through and through" -- which offers a perspective not often heard in rock & roll. Nearly every song has a religious dimension.
Soaring, uplifting instrumental tracks balance the dark brooding tone of many of the lyrics. With not even a whisper of world-weary "we've been at this way too long" fatigue, the band delivers its quintessential hi-tech electronic pop with musical hooks to spare and a beat you can dance to.
Families can talk about what it takes for a band to stay together for 25 years.
| Artist: | Depeche Mode |
| Release date: | October 1, 2005 |
| Label: | Reprise |
| Genre: | Rock |
| Parental advisory: | No |
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