Depeche Mode have been an enduring force of electronic music for over forty years.

On The J Files, hear the story of how a bunch of mates from Basildon, UK formed a synth pop band, rehearsed in a spare bedroom, and didn't have a drummer because they "didn't know one". 

With upbeat early hits like 'Just Can't Get Enough' and 'New Life', the band's sound evolved into something darker and more experimental, with increased emotional oomph. Critically acclaimed albums like Black Celebration, Violator, Songs Of Faith And Devotion, Music For The Masses, and their 2023 release Memento Mori have found them fans across continents and generations.

In this episode hear from all past and present members of the band, Mute Records founder Daniel Miller, documentary filmmakers D.A. Pennebaker and Chris Hegedus, musicians Gotye and Jimmy Pop (Bloodhound Gang), author of Sweet Dreams: The Story of the New Romantics Dylan Jones, and Australian superfan Tim Sowden.