Preview: Pop - Depeche Mode

It all seems a long long way from 1980 when Depeche Mode (right) emerged from Basildon with a happy, poppy brand of synth rock. After Vince Clarke left, they progressively became a darker-edged band and the rock 'n' roll antics of Dave Gahan and friends have been well-documented. This year's world tour began in Sweden at the start of the month and drops into Britain for just three dates. The gigs will be very much greatest hits affairs, as their album, The Singles 1986-98, has just been released alongside current single, "Only When I Lose Myself".

Wembley Arena, Middlesex (0181-902 0902) 29 & 30 Sept;

Nynex Arena, Manchester (0161-839 0700) 2 Oct;

NEC, Birmingham

(0121-643 6101) 3 Oct