Fans eager for fresh music from Depeche Mode might want to adjust their expectations. In a recent discussion with NME, the band’s frontman, Dave Gahan, indicated that they are not rushing to create a follow-up to the 2023 album Memento Mori. Gahan shared insights about his recent interaction with bandmate and co-songwriter Martin Gore, highlighting their time together in Italy. They gathered to celebrate the renewal of wedding vows for their friend Anton Corbijn and his wife, in an enchanting location just outside of Rome. This meeting provided Gahan and Gore with a welcome break from the pressures of work and performances, allowing them to reconnect personally.

Despite the enjoyable reunion, Gahan found it hard to completely avoid the topic of their musical endeavors. He mentioned, “I actually did ask Martin if he’d been writing and he was like, ‘Nah!’” Gahan explained that this lack of activity is typical after a period of intense work. “It’s normal – especially when you’ve worked intensely for a couple of years. It takes a while. Wait and see,” he advised, leaving the possibility of future collaboration open, but emphasizing that it’s not currently in the pipeline.

Join Dave Gahan at the Mark Lanegan Tribute Concert in London

While Dave Gahan may not have immediate plans related to Depeche Mode, he remains active in the music scene. He is set to perform at the highly anticipated all-star tribute concert for Mark Lanegan, scheduled for December 5 in London. Gahan expressed deep admiration for Lanegan, stating, “For me, he’s right up there as a 20th and 21st Century voice and writer.” He praised Lanegan’s unique vocal style, which places him amongst legends like Nick Cave and Johnny Cash. Gahan’s heartfelt tribute underscores the profound impact Lanegan had on contemporary music before his passing in 2022.

Reflecting on their connection, Gahan reminisced about the time he spent with Lanegan while touring together in 2009. “His music changed the way I think about music, songs, songwriting and the use of your voice as an instrument to create this amazing cinematic story,” Gahan noted, highlighting Lanegan’s innovative approach to music. “Even if you’re not interested in what he was saying in any particular phrase, there was just something about the way he opened his mouth. I was completely engaged,” he added, underscoring the magnetic quality of Lanegan’s performances and songwriting.