MARTIN GORE, songwriter/founding member of Depeche Mode, has released “Mandrill,” the new single is lifted from his forthcoming 5-track instrumental EP, The Third Chimpanzee, out January 29, via Mute Records. “Mandrill” is a combination of electro and, like the four other tracks, has Martin Gore’s hugely atmospheric musical trademark stamped all over them. “Mandrill” was produced and written by Martin and recorded this year at Electric Ladyboy in Santa Barbara, California. The accompanying visual is a cosmic trip through the jungle.

From Martin Gore:

“The first track I recorded had a sound that wasn’t human,” Martin explains. “It sounded primate-like. I decided to name it ‘Howler’, after a monkey. Then, when it came time to name the EP, I remembered reading the book ‘The Rise and Fall of the Third Chimpanzee.’ It all made sense to call it that, as the EP was made by one of the third chimpanzees.”

It’s been five years since Martin released the acclaimed instrumental album MG. “Mandrill” follows the 2017 release of Depeche Mode’s global monster Spirit. Recently the band were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Martin Gore
The Third Chimpanzee EP
Tracklisting
Mute Records

1. Howler
2. Mandrill
3. Capuchin
4. Vervet
5. Howler’s End

The Third Chimpanzee EP is available for pre-order now on CD, limited edition 12” Azure Blue vinyl (which includes an art print), and digital platforms. Artwork is by Pockets Warhol. Pre-order The Third Chimpanzee here.