Depeche Mode have returned to the live stage for the first time since the passing of group co-founder Andy Fletcher.

The band played at Italy’s SanRemo Song Festival on 11th February, and used the set to perform brand new single ‘Ghosts Again’ live for the first time. The performance was the band’s first live outing since July 2018, and also included a rendition of their classic single ‘Personal Jesus’.

The band shared new single ‘Ghosts Again’ last week, and also announced full details of their new album, ‘Memento Mori’, which is out on 24th March. Speaking about the new single last week, frontman Dave Gahan said: “To me, ‘Ghosts Again’ just captures this perfect balance of melancholy and joy.”

Martin Gore added: “It’s not often that we record a song that I just don’t get sick of listening to – I’m excited to be able to share it.”

The group kick off a world tour next month, with live shows across North America and Europe, starting in Sacramento, California, on 23rd March.  An arena tour will take place across Europe this summer, with the band also headlining Primavera Sound 2023 in Barcelona and Madrid as part of the run of shows.

Founding member and keyboardist of Depeche Mode, Andy Fletcher passed away last May at the age of 60. In a statement at the time, the band said: “Fletch had a true heart of gold and was always there when you needed a support, a lively conversation, a good laugh, or a cold pint.”

Watch footage of the band’s live debut of ‘Ghosts Again’ below.