Camouflage - The Great Commandment 12''

I've heard a lot worse synth pop, but the chief interest this supplies is in demonstrating how Depeche Mode were a huge influence on continental European synth-pop bands, selling back their commercialized brand once influenced by more abrasive continental European outfits. With more than a passing knowledge of German synth-pop I hadn’t even heard of Camouflage (apart from the single by Stan Ridgway) in the late 80’s. Listening now to what is in effect a Depeche Mode tribute band it's no wonder the band ever got any recognition. That all being said, this is actually worthy of a couple bonus points because this is Depeche Mode at their early electro synth-pop best. The 12” mixes wouldn’t sound out of place if included on an 80’s synth-pop mix tape. Definitely worth the 3 minutes it takes to download if you like early 80’s electro synth.

"The Great Commandment" remains a towering achievement of late-1980s synth-pop, brilliantly capturing the moody, mechanical energy of the European darkwave movement. Driven by a relentless, propulsive bassline and sharp synthesizer stabs, the track creates an immediate sense of urgency that is impossible to ignore. Marcus Meyn’s deep, baritone vocals deliver the cryptic lyrics with a cold, detached authority that perfectly mirrors the song's industrialized rhythm. While its sonic architecture openly nods to mid-period Depeche Mode, Camouflage infuses the track with an infectious, pop-minded melodic sensibility that allowed it to cross over from underground clubs straight to the top of the international dance charts.

The 12-inch vinyl release elevates the track from a catchy single into an immersive club masterpiece, giving the production room to breathe and evolve. The extended mixes lean heavily into the song's hypnotic percussion loops and dramatic synth breakdowns, creating a tense, atmospheric build-up that maximizes its impact on the dance floor. On the flip side, the instrumental track "Pompeji" acts as a fascinating atmospheric companion, showcasing the band's ability to craft cinematic electronic soundscapes. Decades after its release, this 12-inch pressing stands as an essential artifact of electronic music history, embodying the perfect bridge between dark alternative subcultures and mainstream electronic dance music.

Ripped to MP3

Camouflage; The Great Commandment 12”

A1.  The Great Commandment (12” Mix)

A2.  The Great Commandment (Dub Mix)

B1.  The Great Commandment (Extended Dance Mix)

B2.  Pompeji

+ The Great Commandment (Extended Radio Mix)