He may have lost a band, but he's gained an initial. Martin Gore, the driving force behind Essex electroclash pioneers Depeche Mode, has taken time out from stadium hopping around the world to release his second album of cover versions.
Stardust, the first single to be lifted from the album is a thankfully radically reworked cover of the David Essex 'classic'. Starting off with gentle beep and crackle the song evolves into a beautiful electro-pop lament.
The lyrics may be utter nonsense, all talk of 'rock n' roll clowns' but Gore delivers them with heartfelt sincerity and carries it off, ultimately ending up with a lovely bittersweet slice of perfect pop that will lodge itself in your brain on repeat.
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