Here in Germany we are quite a long way from Oceania, so you don’t quickly become aware of the Aussies’ problem: As part of their “Memento Mori” world tour, Depeche Mode have traveled to quite a few countries, but in Europe and America, and not in the fans Down Under.
According to setlist.fm, it’s been a very long time since Martin Gore and Dave Gahan last performed: almost 30 years. As part of their “Exotic Tour” to promote their album “Songs of Faith and Devotion”, Depeche Mode, at that time still with Alan Wilder, visited Australia, the Philippines, South Africa and Singapore, among others. The tour spanned 60 dates – and tensions within the band became so great that Andy Fletcher had to call in sick midway through and Daryl Bamonte replaced him. Alan Wilder left Depeche Mode a year later.
Now it gives up change.org a petition, who is desperate to bring the British back to Australia. Even if the memories of that time are not the best for all DM members: That there would be disputes between the band members when they return to Australia, as in 1994 on the “Exotic” tour, is probably impossible. The petition goes like this:
“Depeche Mode recently announced their first tour in 5 years to coincide with the release of their new album ‘Memento Mori’. Unfortunately, one stop in Australia didn’t make the list.
Let’s show them some love and how many Aussie fans they have who would love to see them live Down Under.
It’s definitely been too long since we’ve had a drink. Depeche Mode have not performed in Australia since 1994 for the release of their album ‘Songs of Faith and Devotion’.
With the cost of living rising and house prices ridiculous, many Australians can’t afford to travel to see this iconic band (okay, I’ll admit I’ve seriously considered it).
Let’s see if we can convince them to play closer to home!”
On Wednesday (16 August) 961 fans signed the petition – which in turn is dated 06 October 2022.
Depeche Mode have currently published dates for 2024 – an indoor tour through Europe in late winter, but not for Australia. Unfortunately, it cannot be said that “Memento Mori” was a hit there: The record did not get past number 36 in the album charts.