The early 1980s were a time of great change for me and for music in general. Punk had given way to new wave, which was being overrun by synthesizers and crazy hairdos and clothing. Remember Flock Of Seagulls or Culture Club?
Being a fan of guitar-based music, I had a hard time coming to a grips with this. But there was a band that was able to bridge the gap for me between guitars and synthesizers. This band was New Order.
Yesterday, we took a look at Joy Division. After the death of Joy Division lead singer Ian Curtis, the remaining three members (Bernard Sumner, Peter Hook and Stephen Morris), along with the addition of Gillian Gilbert, decided to continue as New Order.
The post-punk of Joy Division soon began to change with the addition of dance and electronic influences. A new style of music was born; one that in future years propelled Manchester to the forefront of the music world.
My favourite song to come out of this was "Age Of Consent" from 1983's Power, Corruption & Lies record. It's a great song in every manner from lyrics to beat to melody.
The version we are featuring today was recorded live at BBC Radio 1 studios in 1984. Check out Morris' amazing drumming, Sumner's gym shorts, and is that really Peter Hook? Enjoy!
[video:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VcGJZpfl1c]
- Don’t Look Back (In Anger): “Warsaw” By Joy Division
- Former New Order Frontman Bernard Sumner Attacked By Shark
- New Order, Blur Members Form Bad Lieutenant
- New Order Still New Order Despite Being Off The Hook
- New Order Become No Order
