Strangelove Depeche Mode Tribute Band Sells Out at Longshadow Ranch Winery in Temecula Valley Wine Country

Frontman “Devontional Dave” rocks Strangelove in Temecula (c) Crispin Courtenay

Over 300 Strangelove fans were on hand at Hey Day Production’s outdoor concert, Friday, October 18, 2013 at Longshadow Ranch Winery.

Under the enormous harvest full moon, Robert Walker’s Hey Day Productions brought out the Temecula masses, drawing crowds from San Diego and beyond to Temecula Valley.

Robert Walker of Hey Day Productions warms up the Strangelove crowd with signature style (c) Crispin Courtenay

“We’re sold out and then some,” Walker said. A Temecula musical favorite in his own rite, Walker took the stage with his guitar, in between DJ sets of classic 80s alternative tunes. Walker continued, “Hey Day puts these tribute shows on for a great cause, supporting Salvation International adoption charity, and their cause that every child deserves a family.”

Walker opened the show with his signature acoustic style, engaging the crowd as they showed up for the event under the stars.

Robert Walker opened the night for Strangelove Depeche Mode Tribute Band (c) Crispin Courtenay

Strangelove, a 4-member, true to Depeche Mode tribute band adheres to the real deal in both sound, electronic vibe, and each musical arrangement.

“We’re all fans, here. We just took it to the next level.” Freddie Morales (c) Crispin Courtenay

Through the eighties, nineties, and present, Depeche Mode has continued to inspire audiences around the globe. None more, than the tribute band Strangelove, who descended on Temecula Valley Wine Country with a show that instantly transported fans with memorable covers easily handled by front man, Freddie Morales. “We’re all fans, here. We just took it to the next level.” Morales said, during the show.

Morales appeared as his alter-ego, “Devotional Dave,” along with Brent Meyer “Counterfeit Martin” on keyboards, David Sepe “Alan Wildest” and Jake Jordan as “IntheFletch.”

Opening with “World in My Eyes,” Morales showed his vocal range that mirrors front-man Dave Gahan from vocal chops, down to the last tattoo.

Strangelove commanded the stage from start to finish at Longshadow Ranch Winery (c) Crispin Courtenay

Commanding the stage with the electronic-bravado, spinning mike stand, and engaging the crowd, Morales captured the moments, bringing songs both from the hit-list, such as “People are People” and “Behind the Wheel/Route 66,” which the band handled with triumphant flare. From that moment, the crowd didn’t sit down, and only continued to rush the dance floor.

True Strangelove and Depeche Mode fans enjoyed early eighties tunes, and b-list favorites at Longshadow Ranch Winery

True fans enjoyed the lesser known b-side album songs, such as “Fly on the Windscreen,” that even Depeche Mode doesn’t play live anymore, according to fans in the crowd. “It’s a mix from the whole Mode catalog,” said fan Mike Helmantoler, “(Strangelove) is playing real Depeche Mode, from their earliest catalog. It’s a great show.”

Morales played his role to perfection at Strangelove Hey Day Production in Temecula (c) Crispin Courtenay

The true heart of this tribute band shows with the epic light show, the video screen, and electronic arrangements that mirror original songs from countless hours in post production. Dark purple, fuchsia, and neon green gels lit the crowd who enjoyed not only music, dancing, but the fine wines of Longshadow Ranch. Bass Ale, and Stella were also available for sale, as was Wahoo’s Temecula for a la carte fare. And all for a good cause.

The Hey Day Productions crowd at Longshadow Ranch Winery enjoyed the evening, wine, beer, Wahoos fish Tacos, and Strangelove (c) Crispin Courtenay

Salvation International reaped the benefits for their adoption funds charity, selling raffle baskets, and tickets to all in attendance. “We’re really grateful for all that Hey Day Productions does for us, and are looking forward to our big Adoption Month Celebration Dinner, on November 10, 2013.” Sandy Kordick, Salvation International Director of Fundraising said.

Artist Avalone Skye showed her unique art and style at Strangelove event (c) Crispin Courtenay

Artists and artisans set up booths to display their work, in sponsorship of the evening, including young artist Avalone Skye.

“Lie to Me” brought the crowd to their feet at Longshadow Ranch Winery (c) Crispin Courtenay

Following the break, where raffle baskets were awarded, Strangelove returned with gusto. Sexy-ing it up a bit for the ladies, “Devotional Dave” kicked things up a notch with a stellar rendition of “Lie to Me,” and “Master and Servant.”

Going on with the guitar and drum pounding “Personal Jesus,” the crowd jammed the floor to finish up with “Just Can’t Get Enough,” and encore, “But Not Tonight.”

“Thanks to Robert Rankin Walker, Longshadow Ranch Vineyard & Winery, and all the Temecula devotees for coming out under the stars, beautiful full moon, and the MODE in full effect.” Morales said.

Were you there? Tell us about it. If you missed it, stay tuned for Bauhaus music and Love and Rockets sensation David J live, on Friday, Nov. 22nd 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.

David J will perform the music from his band, “Love and Rockets” at Mount Palomar Winery in the beautiful Temecula Valley. Prior to the show, Hey Day Productions will DJ Bauhaus music–David J’s first band–from 6 – 7 p.m. with a silent Bela Lugosi movie on the big screen. Join Hey Day’s Friends list on Facebook for discounted tickets and further updates on the November 22 show.

For more information on Strangelove, visit: http://www.DepecheTribute.com

For more information on Salvation International Adoption Charity, visit: http://salvationinternational.org/

For more information on Hey Day Productions, visit: http://heyday.com/

For more information on Longshadow Ranch Winery, visit: http://www.longshadowranchwinery.com/