Depeche Mode’s “Useless”: The Darker Side of Ultra Comes Alive
There is something unsettling about “Useless” that becomes difficult to ignore once the song begins. Released in 1997 as part of Depeche Mode’s Ultra era, the track carries a darker and more aggressive energy that continues to fascinate listeners decades later. Its official music video adds another layer to that atmosphere, giving the song a visual identity that many fans still remember vividly.
“Useless” was written by Martin Gore and features lead vocals from Dave Gahan. The song appeared on Ultra, Depeche Mode’s ninth studio album, released in April 1997. The album marked an important period for the British band, arriving after a turbulent chapter in their history and presenting a darker, more restrained sound.
The official video captures that mood effectively. Directed by Anton Corbijn, a longtime creative collaborator of Depeche Mode, the visual focuses on the band within a stark and atmospheric setting. Corbijn’s approach avoids unnecessary decoration and instead allows the personalities, movement and tension of the performers to carry much of the visual impact.
For many listeners, however, the real power of “Useless” remains in the music itself. Dave Gahan’s vocal performance has a raw quality that some fans interpret as anger, frustration or emotional exhaustion. Comments surrounding the video repeatedly return to that intensity, with listeners describing the song as both deeply depressing and remarkably powerful.
There is also an interesting contrast between the album recording and the way some listeners experience the song through live or alternate performances. Several fans have noted that certain performances feel more aggressive and intense than the studio version. That difference has encouraged listeners to return to the song and hear details they may have missed before.
The video has also remained memorable for its distinctive visual moments. One viewer points specifically to the moment around 0:22, when Gahan appears from the car, while another highlights the section around 1:04. These small details show how differently individual listeners connect with the same performance.
More than simply another track from Ultra, “Useless” represents a side of Depeche Mode that rewards repeated listening. It is dark without being empty, restrained without losing intensity, and emotionally distant while still feeling deeply personal.
Nearly three decades later, the song continues to find listeners who hear something different in it each time. Perhaps that is the lasting strength of Depeche Mode. Their music does not always tell you what to feel. It leaves enough darkness for you to discover it yourself.