“Barrel of a Gun” by Depeche Mode is a dark, aggressive industrial rock song released in February 1997 as the lead single from their ninth studio album, Ultra. It marked a dramatic return for the band following a turbulent period that included lead singer Dave Gahan’s struggles with addiction, the departure of bandmate Alan Wilder, and general internal disarray. The song’s intensity reflects all of that turmoil.
Sonically, it’s one of Depeche Mode’s heaviest tracks—filled with distorted guitars, harsh electronic textures, pounding beats, and Gahan’s deep, brooding vocals. The mood is bleak and confrontational. The opening lines immediately set a tone of self-loathing and psychological chaos. The lyrics are opaque but suggest a descent into personal darkness, and perhaps a recognition of destructive behavior and identity loss.
The song was produced by Tim Simenon (Bomb the Bass), whose influence brought a more abrasive, industrial edge to the band’s already dark synth-driven style. It sounded far removed from the more melodic and pop-friendly hits they’d had earlier in the decade.
Despite—or because of—its intensity, “Barrel of a Gun” was a commercial success, reaching No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart and charting well in multiple European countries. It also topped the US Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart, and singles charts in Spain, Italy and Sweden. However, in the U.S. mainstream, it received less radio play due to its hard edge and unconventional sound.
More than just a comeback single, “Barrel of a Gun” was a statement of survival. It proved that Depeche Mode could evolve, confront darkness head-on, and emerge sounding tougher and more uncompromising than ever.