#80/100 – New Order – Substance 1987

Another grab from a sale at a library, this one is a true gem but one that I was already familiar with, having owned the dual tape version in the 80s and listening to it constantly. It’s a slightly unusual 2xLP, but given the number of tracks even on this abbreviated vinyl release, it needed it. I picked Side A because it’s lacking any really popular tracks that got radio play, but represents the oldest cuts on the compilation.

Ceremony, my pick on this listen, was actually written and credited to Joy Division, the precursor to New Order, and it really feels it. Sumner’s vocals are treated very much in the Joy Division manner, Hook’s bass is midrange as every, the drums are snappy and it feels like a halfway track between two worlds, but completely devoted to being great.

#100VinylSides

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