Counterfeit [EP] by Martin L. Gore (CD, Jul-1989, Sire Records USA)

Martin Gore delivers the "softer" note in balance with Dave Gahan's baritone signature, and is the group's songwriter to boot.

This album by himself is no stranger to fans and will easily be acknowledged by all listeners as a keeper ..... I owned, lost a couple and bought back this album since it was produced in 1989 .. yup, it's defninitely a keeper.

Somewhere in between Music For The Masses and Violator (as well as a busy tour schedule and filming the movie Depeche Mode 101), Martin Gore found the time to record this near perfect EP. I believe that these are all cover songs, hence the title "Counterfeit". I purchased this cassette much closer to its original release date in 1990, and played it until the tape had completely worn out. I later purchased the CD, and essentially did the same thing. This is the 3rd (and final) time I have paid for this EP. I have made 2 copies of the new disc for listening, and re-sealed the original for archiving.
Casual listeners of Depeche Mode will not know the difference between this solo album, and the work of the full band - yes, it is that good. The only reason that I consider this album "near perfect" is because it happened to be released (and overshadowed) by the "perfect in every way" Depeche Mode albums Music For The Masses and Violator. Had the release been before or after, I may consider it to be equally as good.
While these are cover songs, Martin's magic touch has been fully applied. The result can be likened to Depeche Mode with "some sugar added". Simply put, these songs will inspire you in the way that people like to be inspired.
Unfortunately, this album has apparently been overlooked in the United States. Perhaps drowned in a deluge of foolish, American "alternative" pop culture. Pick this EP up, while it is still available.