New releases last eight weeks: Leftfield

Review: Depeche Mode's standout album Violator (1989) produced the landmark song 'Personal Jesus', and with its catchy bluesy riff and innovative but rare use of guitar by the otherwise great synthpop act, the song would upend and expand at the edges of an already well-varied sound. With lyrics inspired by 'Elvis And Me' by Priscilla Presley, exploring themes of devotion and stardom, while the record's controversial promotions saw the band take out personal ads, as well as advertise a phone number through which fans could hear the song. Now Matt Early (aka. Funky Wogan and Hardbag), DJ, producer and remixer extraordinaire of Far Horizon and Sub London fame, lays down an ingenious edit backed by the original number on the flip. Limited numbers on this furtive output, so keep your shopping cart fingers poised...

Review: Depeche Mode's Playing The Angel tour was a major milestone following their 2005 album release of the same name. It was produced by Ben Hillier and topped charts in 18 countries with the hit 'Precious'' the most standout. The nine-month tour across Europe and North America included festival headlining slots like Coachella and O2 Wireless but a real standout moment from it was their performance at KROQ-FM's Almost Acoustic Christmas concert, which was captured in full and now gets pressed up to this fine double album. This superb Christmas show is the sound of the band at their best during one of their many fine eras.