Depeche Mode performs at the United Center in Chicago on Nov. 13, 2023.
Chicago fans just can’t get enough Depeche Mode. Despite having already performed at the United Center earlier this year, Dave Gahan and Martin Gore – joined by touring musicians, multi-instrumentalist Peter Gordeno and drummer Christian Eigner – returned to Chicago on Nov. 13 to share yet another sold-out live music experience with Depeche Mode devotees.
The band kicked-off the set with tracks one and two from 2023’s Memento Mori, “My Cosmos Is Mine” and “Wagging Tongue.” “Walking in My Shoes” – which gave Gahan a chance to show off his fashion-forward boots – “It’s No Good,” and “Policy of Truth” had everyone in the venue singing at the top of their lungs. “Everything Counts” was an early crowd pleaser as well.
“My Favourite Stranger” found Gore leaning into a heavier rock sound with his guitar as Gordeno traded his keys for the bass. Gahan added an element of menace to his voice as the music swelled in a euphoric crescendo. Later, “I Feel You” swept everyone into pure bliss as its 6/8 rhythm pulsed, complex in its simplicity. Eigner used the opportunity to get creative on his kit with Gordeno adding an abstract element to the synths. Gahan and Gore held true to the hooks and phrases of the Songs of Faith and Devotion single while still leaving room for evolution in the moment.
Depeche Mode performs at the United Center in Chicago on Nov. 13, 2023.
The catwalk jetting out from the stage was explored by Gahan all night long, notably during “A Pain That I’m Used To” and the pre-encore set-closer “Enjoy the Silence.” After taking the lead vocals during a two-song interlude of “Home” and “Dressed in Black,” Gore also ventured out across the runway where he was met by loving cheers.
With the loss of Andy Fletcher – who passed away in 2022 – still weighing on the hearts of the band and fans, “World in My Eyes” served as a loving tribute to the founding band member. Gahan raised his hands to form a pair of eyes as Fletcher’s image appeared on the screen.
“You know this song,” Gahan said encouraging a celebratory sing-along in remembrance of his friend and bandmate.
There is a spiritual element to Depeche Mode concerts and this Monday night in Chicago was downright religious. It felt like Gahan was blessing the crowd with a special kind of magic as his outstretched arms greeted various sections of the audience during “Stripped.” Followed by a divine rendition of “John the Revelator,” fans were left with the sense that, while religions can be misleading, the music of Depeche Mode is something to believe in.
Depeche Mode performs at the United Center in Chicago on Nov. 13, 2023.
The entire set was a cathartic rave from start to finish. With music bathed in black and lyrics that examine existential dilemmas, Gahan and Gore radiated their synth-pop shine across the venue to host the party of the year. Depeche Mode songs make people feel connected. Connected to the music. Connected to each other. And connected to the moment.
Check out photos from Depeche Mode’s Nov. 13 show – featuring support from DIIV – in Chicago below and click here to pick-up tickets to upcoming tour dates. More information about events at the United Center can be found at LiveNation.com.
(Photos by Laurie Fanelli)
