To me, this was New Order as professional, mature artists. I thought this, having only started listening to NO with Substance, and reflecting back on the material they had already released. I thought it was very well written, tame and un-risky. Little did I know. Now, looking back, I still see this album as an artistic example of professionalism and maturity, but I also see this album setting a gold standard for bands before and after to be measured by. Every track is a classic Post Punk song.
Surprisingly, this is not my favorite NO album, though. I still see Technique as their BEST album. But, this one comes in... I think third? Not bad, considering.
I did what was right and had to be done by squeezing Confusion, Thieves Like Us and Lonesome Tonight on here, as it's almost a requirement. This is where those songs belong. Maybe, one day, I'll make a remix disc for this one.
One reason why I am not a huge fan of this album centers on Blue Monday. YES, I respect the fact that most Techno, House and Electronica are influenced by it. Yes, it was the #1 selling 12-single for many years. Yes, it is a great song. BUT, it is by far the most overplayed and worn out New Order song in existance (followed closely by Bizarre Love Triangle.) I have heard Blue Monday played SO MANY times, I would choke someone if I hear it again.
