[VIDEO] Alan Wilder Joins Depeche Mode on Stage in London for First Time in 16 Years

Alan Wilder performs with Depeche Mode's Martin Gore

Alan Wilder shocked Depeche Mode fans around the world tonight, joining his former band onstage for the first time in 16 years to accompany Martin Gore on piano during a performance of “Somebody” at a Teenage Cancer Trust charity concert at London’s Royal Albert Hall.

We’ve got several different videos of the brief reunion posted below — one of them is actually a two parter, strung together — as well as clips of several other songs from the Royal Albert Hall show, plus the full setlist. (See video after the jump.)

Wilder explains the reunion on his official site:

“Dave (Gahan) contacted me a few weeks back and asked if I’d be willing to join them on-stage. He assured me that everyone in the band was into the idea. I was very happy to accept, especially as it was all in a good cause and we were long overdue some kind of reunion of this sort. It was great to see everyone again and catch up a bit, and it was also the first time I have actually ’seen’ Depeche Mode perform!”

Be sure to visit the link for all the details. This is so cool. I wonder if it will lead to any future collaborations with Wilder? We can only hope. I also found this official soundcheck video in glorious 1080p on YouTube thanks to Helen Sventitsky for sharing this.