CD Review: New Order – “Waiting for the Sirens’ Call” (Warner Brothers)

Thanks to the influence of New Order, we’d never know what would have become of today’s bands like Interpol, Bloc Party and The Killers. Twenty-five years since their first release after the disbanding of their original Joy Division, the influences remain intact and shine a light on how post-punk music should be done.

Opening with the track “Who’s Joe,” the band bring out a clear return that sends them back to their basics with Peter Hook’s unique bass technique, Bernard Sumner’s boyish voice and guitar hooks, and Stephen Morris’ electronic-yet-live drumming.

“Waiting for the Sirens’ Call” is a good showcase for the still-unconvinced fan that wavers between their electronic classics like “Blue Monday” or their pop gems like “Love Vigilantes.” The original “Manchester Band” still moves on strong with their original dance-rock on songs like “Krafty”, “Dracula’s Castle” and “Jetstream” (featuring Ana Matronic from The Scissor Sisters). Almost every song is a lesson in blending electronics, alternative pop and rock star attitude.

New Order has released some great, inspiring albums in their long career. Fortunately, their latest public offering shows them back in their best form they could possibly craft.