Wonderful raw aggression from the Mode's frontman.
Freed from the relative constraints (though what glorious constraints they are) of Depeche Mode, Dave Gahan has blossomed into a formidable singer-songwriter in his own right. And although it's probable that his efforts as a solo artist will never eclipse Mode's achievements or threaten their legacy, Gahan doesn't seem bothered at all. This music is his and his alone and damn what anyone else thinks.
Both 'Saw Something' and 'Deeper & Deeper' are taken from Gahan's latest solo effort 'Hourglass', and although he remains most comfortable working in the dark electro-synth world that made his name, there's a palpable rawness here; primal, elemental qualities that even Depeche Mode at their best can sometimes miss. And that's not to be taken as a criticism. Mode's modus operandi is concentrated, sumptuous industrialism and metallic soundscapes whereas Gahan's focus on desolate, animalistic emotion is different - yet no less compelling.
Although Gahan has stated that 'Saw Something' "is about a starting point for something new in my life...the lyrics are about sitting, waiting for something to come - some kind of answer", its dispirited melancholy can equally be interpreted as brooding malevolence; as malicious pleasure-seeking lust - especially the chorus lyric: "I saw something in your eyes / and I wanted it for myself".
'Deeper & Deeper' may not be as immediate or arresting as its sibling, but its complex aggression is wonderfully magnetic and packs a mean punch too.
Although detractors may argue that Gahan's musical sound is too similar to Mode's to warrant acclaim or even investigation, the difference of approach is both conspicuous and therefore definitely worthy of scrutiny. Highly recommended.