Just because New Order has been around for a looong time (25 years!), that doesn't mean the band has lost its allure. Rather, they've gracefully evolved from the depress-o-rama goth party that was Joy Division (R.I.P. Ian Curtis) to the era-defining synth-pop that recalls — let's be honest — our collective youth. The release of their latest album Waiting for the Sirens' Call seems to be the perfect chance for us to pick our 10 favorite New Order songs. Check them out, then post your picks.
''Truth'' (Movement, 1981)
The plucked bass and haunting keyboard provide the foundation for ''Truth,'' but it's Bernard Sumner's distant vocals that create the most depressing, yet beautiful of scenes.
''Blue Monday'' (Power, Corruption & Lies, 1983)
The electronic drum beat that begins this classic is one of the most memorable openings to any song from the 80s. And who can forget its lyrical accusation: ''How/does it feel/to treat me like you do?''
''Love Vigilantes'' (Low-Life, 1985)
This deeply sad tale, about a military man who returns home to find out his wife was told he was dead, is ironically upbeat, because of that chirpy melodica (!).
''Bizarre Love Triangle'' (Brotherhood, 1986)
I am convinced that this song singlehandedly began the now-standard ''I dropped my contact lens'' goth dance, thanks to the line ''Every time I see you falling, I get down on my knees and pray.'' The rest is history.
''True Faith'' (Substance, 1987)
This is the song that introduced most Gen-Xers to New Order, with its quirky video, in which colorful figures slap each other, dance frenetically, and use sign language to communicate the song's quixotic lyrics.
''Temptation'' (released as 12-inch in 1982, re-recorded for Substance, 1987)
Remember that scene in Trainspotting when Renton (Ewan McGregor) hallucinates that his jailbait lover Diane (Kelly Macdonald) is eerily serenading him while he detoxes? This is the song she's singing ("So you've got green eyes/so you've got blue eyes...").
''Vanishing Point'' (Technique, 1989)
This song's melancholic refrain (''My life ain't no holiday, I've been through the point of no return'') not only showcases the band members' lyrical prowess but also their gift for layering so many keyboards you'll need the best headphones in town to hear them all.
''Regret'' (Republic, 1993)
This ode to heartache contains the line ''I would like a place I can call my own,'' an especially pertinent sentiment for urban renters. Everybody knows that nothing cures a ''wounded heart'' like owning property.
''Turn My Way'' (Get Ready, 2001)
Who knew that a duet with ex-Smashing Pumpkin Billy Corgan could be so engaging? Fuzzed-out guitars and real drums make this a standout.
''Guilt Is a Useless Emotion'' (Waiting for the Sirens' Call, 2005)
After all these years, the band still knows how to create a single that's genuinely club-ready, complete with thumping bass and female backing vocals. It's already screaming for a remix.
What are your favorite New Order songs? Post them here.
