Transmission

Classic alternative from 1987

by Jake Rudh

November 22, 2024

  Play Now [59:31]
"Music for the Masses" is the sixth studio album by English electronic music band Depeche Mode, released on September 28, 1987.
"Music for the Masses" is the sixth studio album by English electronic music band Depeche Mode, released on September 28, 1987.Mute Records

Now, people are always saying this year and that year is the best year there's ever been for music. And obviously that's a very personal thing, but I will say that the year I'll be focusing on this week's Transmission is one of my all-time favorites, and I look forward to showing you why. Here's a few hints: Depeche Mode, check. The Cure, check. The Smiths, R.E.M., INXS — a Mount Rushmore of classic alternative right there alone. Yes, it is 1987, and we're headed there this week on the show.

Program playlist

Featured
4 of 4
Various photos of band members arranged on the cover of an album
'Kick' is the sixth studio album by Australian rock band INXS, released in October 1987.
Atlantic Records
1 of 4
An extreme close-up of lips
"Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me" is the seventh studio album by English rock band the Cure, released May 26, 1987.
Fiction Records
2 of 4
A close-up photo of the actor Richard Davalos
"Strangeways, Here We Come" is the fourth and final studio album by the English rock band the Smiths. It was released on September 28, 1987.
Rough Trade Records
Classic alternative from 1987