David Gahan (born May 9, 1962 in Epping, Essex, England) is the baritone lead singer for English electro stalwarts, Depeche Mode. Dave released his first solo album titled Paper Monsters in 2003 to critical acclaim. Lyrically, it had strong autobiographical elements and musically was tinged with a rockier sound than previous DM releases. Three UK singles, a tour and a live dvd followed. Interestingly, the remix packages on the singles were very upfront dance, electro and techno in sound. Dave subsequently penned a couple of tracks on Depeche Mode's next studio album Playing the Angel. Many believe that Dave's songwriting for Depeche Mode (alongside that of mainstay Martin Gore) marks a new era in the band's evolution.