A stunning return to Violator-era form, 2005's Playing the Angel is arguably Depeche Mode's finest outing since that lauded 1990 album. The group clearly isn't kidding around, since the first track, "A Pain That I'm Used To," opens with ominous, jarring noise and shifts into a bleak, surging tune. The more melodic side of DM is well represented, however, as revealed on the gospel-tinged "John the Revelator" and the urgent, emotive "Precious." The result of a long-running ensemble playing to its strengths without seeming repetitive or self-conscious, Playing the Angel is a welcome addition to the upper tier of Depeche Mode records. ~ Eric Schneider