Substance 1977-1980
Joy Division

Worth the money just for 'Atmosphere' alone.

It's notable how Joy Division change through the years, from basic New Wave, in the shape of 'Warsaw', to the more brooding sound of 'Leaders Of Men' - which is more indicative of the sound to follow - with more trad. Joy stuff - à la 'Digital', 'Autosuggestion', 'Transmission' and 'She's Lost Control'. The latter two, with that slow, tantalising build up, and then into the crescendo - the hallmark of Joy Division's sound.

Trax like 'Atmosphere' just indicate what would have happened had not Ian Curtis taken his own life months later. It is such an awesomely beautiful, majestic piece - made all the more poignant by Ian's demise. 'Love Will Tear Us Apart' is another gem, and that softer, bass/electric guitar sound is taking shape in what we see in New Order's work today.

- Paul Rance/booksmusicfilmstv.com.

This review originally appeared in Peace & Freedom in 1989.