Depeche Mode sign worldwide exclusive deal with EMI Music

Worried about Depeche Mode making the rent on their seaside villas? Don't be. The pop trio - Dave Gahan, Martin Gore and Martin Fletcher - have just inked a big bucks worldwide exclusive deal with EMI Music, guaranteeing them both rent and lunch money for years to come.

Although EMI Music's Mute label has been Depeche Mode 's international home since 1981, the new deal means that EMI Music will now release the band's music in the US for the first time, as well as in the rest of the world.

Everybody's happy

"We are so pleased to be continuing our relationship with Mute," said Andy Fletcher, "and we feel very positive about the new team and set-up at EMI. This is going to be an exciting new chapter." (Well, what did you expect him to say?)

Nick Gatfield, EMI Music president of North America, the UK and Ireland, said, "We are delighted to be extending our relationship with Depeche Mode, and to be supporting them in the US for the first time. They are one of the world's most innovative and successful bands who continuously push boundaries and excite fans with their recording and live work."

(Again, what did you expect him to say? By the way, a little trivia: Gatfield used to be in Dexy's Midnight Runners.)

The first release under Depeche Mode's new deal will be the band's 12th studio album, due outside the US on April 20, 2009, and in the US on April 21st. The group is currently recording in New York, which means they're ordering tons of sushi, no doubt.

In addition, Depeche Mode have announced dates for the European leg of their Tour Of The Universe 2009 - the band's first-ever stadium tour in which they will perform in 28 cities across 21 countries. Hey, it's not exacty the universe, but they'll see their fair share of luxury hotels.

The tour kicks off in Israel on May 10.

And we repeat, if you're worried about Depeche Mode paying the rent on their seaside villas, don't be. They'll be just fine.