Are you a fan of Depeche Mode and their iconic synth-pop and new wave sound? If so, you’re in for a treat! Here are 18 bands, artists, and music similar to Depeche Mode that you should definitely check out. These artists have captured the essence of the genre while adding their unique twists. Enjoy exploring these musical gems!

1. New Order

New Order emerged from the ashes of Joy Division and became pioneers in the synth-pop and electronic music scene. Their hit songs like “Blue Monday” and “Bizarre Love Triangle” are timeless classics. Albums such as Power, Corruption & Lies and Technique are essential listens for any synth-pop enthusiast.

2. Erasure

Erasure, composed of Vince Clarke and Andy Bell, is known for their catchy synth-pop tunes. Tracks like “A Little Respect” and “Always” have made them a staple in the genre. Their album The Innocents is particularly noteworthy.

3. Pet Shop Boys

Pet Shop Boys, consisting of Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe, have been a dominant force in electronic music since the 1980s. Songs like “West End Girls” and “It’s a Sin” showcase their unique style. Their album Actually is a must-listen.

4. The Human League

The Human League helped define the sound of the 1980s with their synth-heavy tracks. “Don’t You Want Me” and “Love Action” are just a couple of their many hits. The album Dare is an essential part of their discography.

5. Duran Duran

Duran Duran blended new wave, synth-pop, and rock to create a unique sound. Hits like “Hungry Like the Wolf” and “Ordinary World” have stood the test of time. Their self-titled album Duran Duran and Rio are fan favorites.

6. Gary Numan

Gary Numan is a pioneer of electronic music with a darker edge. Tracks like “Cars” and “Are ‘Friends’ Electric?” are iconic. His album The Pleasure Principle is a landmark in the genre.

7. Tears for Fears

Tears for Fears are known for their emotionally charged synth-pop anthems. “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” and “Shout” are among their most famous songs. The album Songs from the Big Chair is a classic.

8. Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD)

OMD combined experimental electronic music with pop sensibilities. Hits like “If You Leave” and “Enola Gay” are perfect examples of their sound. The album Architecture & Morality is highly recommended.

9. A-ha

A-ha gained international fame with their hit “Take On Me” and its iconic music video. They continued to produce memorable tracks like “The Sun Always Shines on T.V.”. Their debut album Hunting High and Low is a must-listen.

10. Alphaville

Alphaville’s synth-pop hits like “Forever Young” and “Big in Japan” have become anthems of the genre. Their album Forever Young remains a beloved classic.

11. Soft Cell

Soft Cell is best known for their hit “Tainted Love”, but they have many other great tracks like “Say Hello, Wave Goodbye”. The album Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret is a key part of their discography.

12. Visage

Visage, fronted by Steve Strange, played a crucial role in the development of the New Romantic movement. “Fade to Grey” is their most famous track. Their self-titled album Visage is definitely worth exploring.

13. Talk Talk

Talk Talk started with a synth-pop sound before evolving into more experimental music. “It’s My Life” and “Life’s What You Make It” are standout tracks. The album The Colour of Spring marks a pivotal moment in their career.

14. Ultravox

Ultravox, led by Midge Ure, created some of the most memorable synth-pop tracks of the 1980s. “Vienna” and “Dancing with Tears in My Eyes” are essential listens. The album Vienna is a highlight of their work.

15. Yazoo

Yazoo, featuring Alison Moyet and Vince Clarke, produced a number of synth-pop classics. “Don’t Go” and “Only You” are timeless tracks. Their album Upstairs at Eric’s is a must-have.

16. Blancmange

Blancmange’s blend of synth-pop and art rock yielded hits like “Living on the Ceiling” and “Blind Vision”. The album Happy Families is a great introduction to their music.

17. Camouflage

Camouflage is often compared to Depeche Mode due to their similar sound. “The Great Commandment” and “Love Is a Shield” are standout tracks. The album Voices & Images is a great starting point.

18. Heaven 17

Heaven 17’s synth-pop sound is characterized by their hit “Temptation”. Other notable tracks include “Let Me Go”. The album Penthouse and Pavement is a classic of the genre.

Each of these artists brings their own unique flavor to the synth-pop and new wave genres, much like Depeche Mode. Dive into their music and discover new favorites!