New Order is a British post-punk and alternative rock band that emerged from the ashes of Joy Division following the tragic suicide of lead singer Ian Curtis in 1980. With their unique blend of electronic dance music and rock, the band went on to become one of the most influential and groundbreaking acts of the 80s and beyond. Over the years, New Order has produced an impressive discography of iconic songs, including “Blue Monday,” “Bizarre Love Triangle,” “True Faith,” and many more.
In this article, we will be counting down the 10 best New Order songs of all time. From their early post-punk sound to their later synth-pop hits, we will explore the band’s most memorable and enduring tracks. We’ll take a closer look at the stories behind the songs, the creative process, and the impact they had on the music scene. Whether you’re a die-hard New Order fan or simply a music enthusiast, this list is sure to spark some nostalgia and appreciation for one of the most innovative bands of the past few decades. So sit back, turn up the volume, and join us as we revisit the best of New Order.
1. “The Perfect Kiss” (from Low-Life, 1985)
“The Perfect Kiss” is a synth-pop classic and one of New Order’s most beloved tracks. Released in 1985 as part of their album “Low-Life,” the song is a perfect example of the band’s signature sound, blending electronic beats, guitar riffs, and memorable melodies. The track features an infectious bassline that drives the song forward, while the vocals of lead singer Bernard Sumner provide a sense of emotional depth and vulnerability. The lyrics themselves are a meditation on the idea of perfection and the search for meaning and connection in a world that often seems chaotic and confusing. The song’s catchy chorus and danceable rhythm make it a favorite among fans and a staple of New Order’s live performances. With its unique blend of electronic and rock elements, “The Perfect Kiss” remains an essential track in the band’s discography and a testament to their enduring influence on the music world.
2. “Bizarre Love Triangle” (from Brotherhood, 1986)
“Bizarre Love Triangle” is a synth-pop classic and one of New Order’s most iconic songs. Released in 1986 as part of their album “Brotherhood,” the track is instantly recognizable thanks to its memorable melody and catchy chorus. The song’s upbeat tempo and pulsing synth sounds make it an irresistible dancefloor anthem, while the lyrics speak to the complexities of love and the struggle to find meaning and connection in relationships. Lead singer Bernard Sumner’s vocals are particularly poignant, conveying a sense of yearning and vulnerability that resonates with listeners. “Bizarre Love Triangle” has since become a cultural touchstone, appearing in movies, TV shows, and commercials, and inspiring countless covers and remixes. With its timeless sound and universal themes, the song remains one of New Order’s most enduring and beloved tracks, and a testament to their enduring impact on the music world.
3. “Age Of Consent” (from Power, Corruption, & Lies, 1983)
“Age of Consent” is a standout track from New Order’s seminal 1983 album “Power, Corruption, & Lies.” The song is a perfect example of the band’s signature blend of post-punk and electronic dance music, featuring a driving bassline, propulsive drumbeat, and shimmering synth sounds. Lead singer Bernard Sumner’s vocals are particularly emotive, conveying a sense of youthful optimism and energy. The lyrics speak to the idea of personal agency and the importance of taking control of one’s life, even in the face of adversity. The song’s memorable chorus and infectious melody make it an instant classic, and it remains a favorite among fans and critics alike. “Age of Consent” is a testament to New Order’s enduring influence on the music world, and a reminder of their innovative approach to blending genres and pushing boundaries.
4. “True Faith” (single, 1987)
“True Faith” is a synth-pop masterpiece and one of New Order’s most iconic singles. Released in 1987, the song features a lush, cinematic sound that perfectly captures the band’s unique blend of electronic and rock music. Lead singer Bernard Sumner’s vocals are particularly affecting, conveying a sense of emotional intensity and longing. The lyrics themselves are a meditation on the search for meaning and purpose in life, and the need for connection and hope in the face of uncertainty. The song’s soaring chorus and memorable melody make it an instant classic, and it has since become a cultural touchstone, appearing in movies, TV shows, and commercials, and inspiring countless covers and remixes. “True Faith” remains one of New Order’s most enduring and beloved tracks, and a testament to their enduring influence on the music world.
5. “Blue Monday” (single, 1983)
“Blue Monday” is a landmark single that helped define the sound of electronic dance music. Released in 1983, the song features a driving, propulsive beat and iconic synth melody that has become instantly recognizable to fans around the world. The lyrics themselves are a meditation on the pain and uncertainty of heartbreak, conveyed through lead singer Bernard Sumner’s emotive vocals. The song’s unique sound and infectious rhythm made it an instant classic, and it has since become one of New Order’s most iconic and enduring tracks. “Blue Monday” remains a cultural touchstone, inspiring countless covers, remixes, and homages, and continuing to influence the worlds of dance and electronic music to this day.
6. “Temptation” (single, 1982)
“Temptation” is a synth-pop classic and one of New Order’s most beloved singles. Originally released in 1982, the song features a driving bassline and infectious synth melody that perfectly capture the band’s signature sound. Lead singer Bernard Sumner’s vocals are particularly emotive, conveying a sense of longing and desire that speaks to the universal themes of love and connection. The song’s memorable chorus and danceable rhythm make it an instant classic, and it has since become a staple of New Order’s live shows. “Temptation” remains one of the band’s most enduring and beloved tracks, and a testament to their innovative approach to blending genres and pushing boundaries in the world of electronic and rock music.
7. “Regret” (from Republic, 1993)
“Regret” is a synth-pop gem from New Order’s 1993 album “Republic.” The song features a soaring, anthemic sound that perfectly captures the band’s unique blend of electronic and rock music. Lead singer Bernard Sumner’s vocals are particularly emotive, conveying a sense of regret and longing that speaks to the universal themes of loss and heartbreak. The lyrics themselves are a reflection on the choices we make in life and the consequences that follow, conveyed through a powerful chorus and memorable melody. “Regret” remains one of New Order’s most enduring and beloved tracks, and a testament to their ability to create timeless music that speaks to the human experience.
8. “Elegia” (from Low-Life, 1985)
“Elegia” is an instrumental masterpiece and one of New Order’s most haunting and emotive tracks. Originally released on their 1985 album “Low-Life,” the song features a sweeping, cinematic sound that perfectly captures the band’s innovative approach to blending electronic and rock music. The song’s lush instrumentation and atmospheric soundscapes evoke a sense of melancholy and introspection, conveying a powerful sense of emotion without the need for lyrics. “Elegia” remains one of New Order’s most powerful and memorable tracks, and a testament to their ability to push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of music.
9. “Dreams Never End” (from Movement, 1981)
“Dreams Never End” is a standout track from New Order’s debut album, “Movement,” released in 1981. The song features a driving bassline, propulsive drumbeat, and shimmering guitar riffs that perfectly capture the band’s early post-punk sound. Lead singer Bernard Sumner’s vocals are particularly affecting, conveying a sense of longing and uncertainty that speaks to the universal themes of love and connection. The lyrics themselves are a reflection on the fleeting nature of youth and the importance of holding onto our dreams and aspirations. “Dreams Never End” remains one of New Order’s most enduring and beloved tracks, and a testament to their ability to create music that speaks to the human experience.
10. “Crystal” (from Get Ready, 2001)
“Crystal” is a standout track from New Order’s 2001 album “Get Ready.” The song features a pulsing, upbeat sound that perfectly captures the band’s ability to evolve and adapt to changing musical trends. Lead singer Bernard Sumner’s vocals are particularly strong, conveying a sense of optimism and energy that speaks to the universal themes of hope and possibility. The lyrics themselves are a reflection on the power of love and connection to overcome adversity and the challenges of life. “Crystal” remains one of New Order’s most beloved and enduring tracks, and a testament to their ability to continue pushing boundaries and creating innovative music more than two decades into their career.
Erica Henderson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
