“Violator” (Depeche Mode) – Songs Ranked

Depeche Mode is a band that most people are familiar with, but I feel like their best album – “Violator” – is an unsung gem from the late 80’s.

There are some cracking songs on here, with some of the best production you’ll hear from the era. How would I rank all nine songs?

Before we begin, you can check out some of my related blog posts below:

OK

9 – Sweetest Perfection

After a great opening song, “Sweetest Perfection” feels quite tame in comparison.

It’s a weaker second track than I was hoping for, so it’s the third song – “Personal Jesus” – that has to get the ball rolling again.

8 – Blue Dress

The second track on the album is its weakest, and now the second-last track is its second weakest. Do you think they did that on purpose?

“Blue Dress” suffers from the two incredible tracks immediately preceding it, as it feels very filler and underwhelming as a result.

Good

7 – Halo

I quite like “Halo”, but it also sounds like a lot of 80’s schlock from the era.

6 – Clean

The final track on the album doesn’t necessarily send Violator off with a bang, but “Clean” is still a perfectly serviceable ending.

It’s slower and darker than you might expect, but it’s a thought-provoking tone to leave the listener with.

5 – Waiting for the Night

“Waiting for the Night” is arguably the most out-there track on the album, but I can dig it.

It’s dark and brooding, with excellent production across the board.

Great

4 – World in My Eyes

Great albums usually have great openers, and “World in My Eyes” gets the ball rolling nicely.

It sounds so vibrant and ahead of its time, with a groove that makes the five-minute runtime fly by.

Amazing

3 – Policy of Truth

Part of the reason Violator is so universally loved is because of these top three tracks in particular. “Policy of Truth” is just barely my least favourite of the three, but it’s still awesome.

I love the harsh percussion and the sliding synth (or is it a guitar?) sound, and the lyrics are some of the most confrontational and thought-provoking on the album.

2 – Personal Jesus

In terms of pure synth grooves, you’ll never hear something as engrossing and seductive as “Personal Jesus”.

It’s plodding and yet fast-paced, with multiple catchy sections that I keep coming back to.

All-Time Great

1 – Enjoy the Silence

Immediately when you hear those synthetic choral voice stabs, you know you’re about to listen to greatness.

I love the lyrics and general foreboding vibe, but it’s the haunting choruses that make “Enjoy the Silence” one of the best songs of the 80’s.

Aaaand that’s my list! You can check out some of my latest blog posts below: