Recommendations of the Editorial team
Since the tracklist for the charity album “Help (2)” was announced, people have been wondering what the Depeche Mode song “Universal Soldier” is all about. Is it a new, original song by the band or is it a cover version? Either way it’s a new release.
Cover instead of new composition
Now the question can be answered: “Universal Soldier” is a cover version of the Donovan song from 1965. This may disappoint those Depeche Mode fans who were hoping for a new composition by Martin Gore. At the same time, the song marks the duo’s first new release since “Memento Mori” or the Mexico live album with three studio outtakes.
Dave Gahan does the lead vocals, so it’s not a Martin Gore solo number. “Universal Soldier” was produced by James Ford, who is also responsible for the entire “Help (2)” album. The sound and arrangement of the piece are therefore similar to the last Depeche Mode album “Memento Mori” with its digitally produced, atmospheric sound aesthetic. The “Help (2)” album will be released on March 6th, 2026.
About “Help (2)”
“HELP(2)” brings artists together to support the work of War Child. From rapid emergency aid to educational offerings to specialized psychosocial care and protection for children affected by war and conflict around the world. Today, one in five children in the world is growing up in a war zone.
“HELP(2)” brings together on its sampler, among others, Anna Calvi, Arctic Monkeys, Arlo Parks, Arooj Aftab, Bat For Lashes, Beabadoobee, Beck, Beth Gibbons, Big Thief, Black Country, New Road, Damon Albarn, Depeche Mode, Foals, Fontaines DC, Graham Coxon, Greentea Peng, Kae Tempest, King Krule, Nilüfer Yanya, Olivia Rodrigo, Pulp, Sampha, The Last Dinner Party, Wet Leg, Young Fathers and many more.
The original HELP album was created in a single day and raised over £1.2 million, which helped War Child help thousands of children during the Bosnian War. The new album was recorded during a studio week in November 2025 in collaboration with Abbey Road Studios. James Ford acted as executive producer. Jonathan Glazer (“The Zone of Interest”) and his team from Academy Films took over the overall artistic direction.
All proceeds from HELP(2) will benefit War Child UK and support the protection, education and rights of children in conflict regions around the world.
