1982-10-06 National Stadium, Dublin, Ireland
Notes
A concert review by Ross Fitzsimmons for Record Mirror:
Depeche Mode took the mist shrouded stage to play over an hour of carefully selected material which equally balanced both the old and the new. They gave us the favourites we came to hear — 'See You', 'New Life', 'Leave In Silence', 'The Meaning Of Love' and 'I Just Can't Get Enough' —but rather than rest on their laurels and their hits, the group pushed themselves beyond complacency to deliver a performance of strength and conviction.
In fact, for my money the newest material was the strongest — songs like 'Monument' and 'Nothing To Fear' and most of all 'The Sun And The Rainfall' suggest a developing durability in their modes. The emphasis in these newer, tougher songs has shifted from melody to rhythm with the music moving relentlessly into the realm of the strongly physical.
But such considerations aside, the star of the show was definitely vocalist Dave Gahan, whose seemingly casual approach in the opening notes soon gave way to precise professionalism as he danced in front of a pair of spotlights throwing beams and shadows to all corners of the house from his animated silhouette.
Dave's vocals were a little hesitant early on but he obviously conquered his first night nerves by the fourth number, 'New Life', which he sang with all the insurance and strength the song demands. He was equally impressive on 'A Photograph Of You', certainly a candidate for a single release.
Despite the limitation of playing with pre-recorded drum tracks Depeche Mode lacked neither polish or spirit and gave a performance of which they can justifiably be proud.
Cuba Dares was the support act.
