After the rousing success of our Guided By Voices compilation, ‘All Good Kids’, your pals at Phonophore wanted to get cracking on a follow up project as soon as possible.
Now, we are thrilled to announce that we’re back in the homage business, this time around paying tribute to an act that literally defined a genre.
Depeche Mode are the defining act of the synth-pop movement, one of the best selling acts in music history, and unqualified legends. From sticky sweet bubble-gum synth-pop to the darkest, most debauched goth, and all of the sonic acreage in between, the DM catalog is a treasure trove.
While Depeche Mode are known for a very specific sonic palette, we are interested in reinterpreting this incredible collection of songs across myriad genres. One of the great joys of a project like this is the opportunity to see songs reimagined in ways we would never have expected, but somehow still feel true to the original. Based on our experiences with the GBV compilation, this project is sure to be a grand old time.
If you would like to join us in this endeavor, we’d love to hear from you. We just need to know some details from you and set some guidelines/expectations of what to do on your end.
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In an effort to streamline the process of putting a project of this size together, we’re requesting submissions for this compilation be done exclusively through the form on this site.
Simply fill out the form below and we’ll get all of your band and contact data as well as give you a chance to let us know what your top three choices for Depeche Mode song would be for this project.
1. You must fill out the submission form below to be considered for the DM project.
2. In the “FIRST SONG CHOICE” section, enter the song you would most like to record for the DM project. You will be given a chance to choose second and third choice options in case of duplicate song requests. Only one song title is required to complete the form. If you only choose one song with no alternates, your first choice may not be available and it may result in you/your band being uninvolved in the project.
3. Once you submit your song choice, please make note of the important dates and details. We’ll touch base with you very soon.
4. Thanks so much for being a part of this endeavor. We’re thrilled to have you here.
5. Be sure to read the FAQ section below for further details.
DATES AND DEADLINES
FEB. 1 - FINAL DAY FOR BAND SUBMISSIONS
FEB. 6 - BANDS & SONG ASSIGNMENTS ANNOUNCED VIA EMAIL
APR. 1 - DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTING FINISHED TRACK
JUNE 16 - EXPECTED RELEASE DATE
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: If I submit a song, will I be guaranteed a spot on the compilation?
A: The simpler answer is that we try to include as many artists as possible. However, we will need to keep this to a reasonable number of songs as a release.
As a Michigan based label with deep local roots, our first tribute album focused almost exclusively on the midwest. We will always tend to favor folks from the region, especially those with whom we have existing relationships. Bands from all over the world are welcome to submit, but if we have to flip a coin, we’re probably gonna end up buying local.
This project is designed to extend and strengthen our network and communities of bands, so we’re always trying to make the label umbrella a little bit bigger everyday. In short, chances are very good you’ll be chosen, but if not, we will be sure to communicate any additional info to you.
Q: How will I know what song I am doing for the project?
A: We will notify all artists of their assigned song via email no later than February 6, 2023.
Q: What if I don’t want to record my assigned song?
A: Once we send out the song assignments, you will have a chance to reach out and let us know if you’d like to choose a song other than what you have been assigned. We will provide a list of songs that have been spoken for and you’ll have a few days to find a new selection.
Finding alternate choices beyond your first song choice will increase the chances you’ll get to record a song you feel strongly about. Be sure to include your second and third song choices on the form below.
Q: Does my band have to be currently active to be considered?
A: We are certainly going to lean towards acts that are active and still a going concern. That said, we love to hear from side projects, solo endeavors and brand new acts. Quality is always going to win out around these parts.
Q: Do I have to pay anything to be a part of this?
A: NO. There is no pay to play aspect of this. Once we get ready to roll out the release, we’re going to offer some options for artists to purchase physical copies of the release and some additional merch. None of these items are required to participate, but we’ll be making these available both as a way to celebrate the project, and to help cover the extensive costs of putting projects of this size this together.
Q: Am I going to get rich and/or famous from my appearance on this compilation?
A: While we feel pretty strongly that wealth is measured in far more than just money, we also know that it pays the bills. As a part of this compilation you’ll get a chance to be connected to a network of artists who believe deeply in the power of music to bring people together. In sharing your talents, we create a web of talent and perspective that hopefully will continue to grow with each successive project in its scale and in the depth of its impact.
We would never take your talents, time and energy for granted. In being a part of this project, we hope that your band will find a new audience and that our label and network can continue to grow our reach. Ideally, the scenario is designed to be beneficial for everyone involved.
Any profits generated from the project will be directed back into future releases like this for the label. Additionally, as we prepare this project for release, we are researching a non-profit that we can partner with to help raise some funds for a group in need in the Lansing, MI area.
Q: What technical stuff do I need to know to submit? Do I need to know all about file formats, mastering curves and high frequency detail?
A: We just need a wav file that is unmastered of your final track. We’ll be having all of the songs mastered as a release together, so there is no need to individually master your song.
Q: Can I record this on my phone with an out of tune acoustic guitar?
A: Your art is your art. It ain’t up to us to tell you how to present yourself. Record your track in a compelling way and sell us your vision. We’ll take it from there with an open mind.
Q: What if I miss the deadline for submitting my song?
A: To keep the release schedule on track, it’s not possible for us to extend the deadline for submissions.
You’ll have about eight weeks between the date you get your song assignment and when songs submissions are due on April 1.
To get a head start, we’d recommend making plans now to get recording and mixing done in that timeframe. Schedule studio time, coordinate band calendars and make sure you have the time to get your track finished to your own high standards.
Q: Anything else that I am forgetting?
A: Once things are ready for release, we’ll be asking you to spread the word far and wide on all of your social channels. We’ll provide you with a bunch of assets to share on various platforms to make it that much easier for you.
Beyond that, have fun and start getting excited. This project is designed for all involved to expand their network and build a deeper and stronger community through music. Reach out to the other bands involved and start making connections.
Thanks so much for being here and sharing your talents with us. We’re excited to work together with you.
