Very sad. One of the best and most important bands. They influenced many people and bands. Their sound was new and exciting. For me, the best band of the eighties.
Belated but let me express my condolences. Depeche Mode were one of the most original bands that emerged from the UK synth-pop scene of the 80’s. Their ability to merge the technology-induced sound with the melody and the hooks was second to none.
I used the past tense as I feel their post-80’s, more rock-oriented incarnation to be something of a shadow of the past — not dissimilar to the case of Echo & The Bunnymen I mentioned in another thread — even though their popularity has become just bigger and bigger.
Saw them four times in Japan 85-90 (their best times IMHO) and twice in Manchester 2013 and 17.
I don't like electronic music that much, but there are some exceptions. I love Depeche Mode, especially "Violator" and "Music For The Masses". They became a truly great live band, and Dave Gahan is as good a front man as you will find.