The much-anticipated second season of Transmissions: The Definitive Story of Joy Division & New Order has finally arrived, promising a deeper exploration into the history and evolution of these iconic bands. Following the resounding success of the first season, fans can now look forward to more exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and an in-depth look at how Joy Division transitioned into New Order, ultimately becoming one of the most influential bands in music history.
Exclusive Interviews and Special Guests
This season is packed with new and exclusive interviews that provide unprecedented insights into the band’s journey. Key members, including Bernard Sumner, Stephen Morris, Gillian Gilbert, and Peter Hook, share their personal experiences and perspectives. In addition to the core band members, a variety of special guests contribute their thoughts and stories, adding rich context to the narrative.
Notable Contributors:
- Johnny Marr: Guitarist of The Smiths, who shares his admiration for the band.
- Billy Corgan: Frontman of The Smashing Pumpkins, discusses the influence of New Order on his music.
- Christine and The Queens: Delves into how Joy Division and New Order have impacted modern pop music.
- The Chemical Brothers’ Tom Rowlands: Offers insights into the band’s influence on electronic music.
These contributions from a wide array of artists and producers underscore the lasting impact of Joy Division and New Order across multiple genres.
Transitioning from Joy Division to New Order
Narrated by BBC Radio’s Elizabeth Alker, this season delves into the transformative period when Joy Division evolved into New Order. After the tragic loss of Ian Curtis, the band was faced with the challenge of continuing under a new identity. The surprise global success of “Blue Monday” marked a turning point, catapulting New Order to international stardom.
Key Highlights:
- Global Success of “Blue Monday”: This track became a defining moment, as it not only solidified New Order’s place in the music industry but also influenced the direction of electronic music globally.
- Quincy Jones’s Record Deal Offer: The podcast reveals how Quincy Jones approached the band with a US record deal, showcasing their rising influence.
- John Hughes’s Soundtrack Request: New Order was sought after for movie soundtracks, further establishing their versatility and appeal.
As New Order’s fame grew, so did the pressures and challenges. The band members share candid reflections on how they navigated these new demands while staying true to their creative vision.
The Rise of New Order in America
One of the intriguing aspects of this season is the exploration of New Order’s success in the United States. Unlike in Europe, where audiences were still attached to Joy Division’s legacy, American listeners embraced New Order with fresh ears.
Insights from the Band:
- Stephen Morris on American Audiences: “In America, they approached us with an open mind. The fact that the audiences did get bigger justified our bloody-mindedness with not being Joy Division.”
- Gillian Gilbert’s Experience: “They used to turn up in suits. That was the main thing you’d see. All really smart record guys in suits.”
This fresh reception allowed New Order to carve out a new identity and solidify their place as pioneers in the music industry.
The Hacienda and the Birth of Rave Culture
Another focal point of the season is the exploration of The Hacienda, New Order’s iconic nightclub, and its role in the birth of rave culture. The podcast provides a behind-the-scenes look at the chaotic yet creative environment that defined The Hacienda.
Peter Hook on The Hacienda’s Legacy:
- “Watching The Hacienda and Rob and Mike Pickering’s belief in Detroit and Chicago House… They believed in the music long before Ecstasy swept it along in its tidal wave.”
The Hacienda became a breeding ground for new music and cultural movements, with New Order at the heart of it all.
The Band’s Evolution: Albums and Achievements
This season also covers the creation of New Order’s classic albums, Brotherhood, Technique, and Republic, along with their contributions to popular culture, such as the timeless World Cup anthem “World In Motion.”
Albums Covered:
- Brotherhood (1986): Known for its mix of rock and electronic music, this album reflects the band’s experimental phase.
- Technique (1989): A fusion of acid house and electronic dance music, this album marked a significant shift in New Order’s sound.
- Republic (1993): This album captures the band at a crossroads, dealing with internal conflicts while still producing hits.
Each of these albums represents a different phase in New Order’s evolution, showcasing their ability to innovate and adapt to changing musical landscapes.
The Reissue of Brotherhood and Other Releases
Coinciding with the release of this new podcast season, New Order has announced a remastered set of formats for their album Brotherhood, to be released by Warner Music on 22 November. This reissue includes not only the original album but also previously unreleased tracks and live performances, offering fans a comprehensive look at this pivotal period in the band’s history.
Reissue Details:
- 2CD Set: Includes the remastered album and nine unreleased tracks from a recording session in Japan in 1985.
- 2DVD Set: Features live performances from Brixton Academy (1987), G-Mex Manchester (1986), and Glastonbury, along with TV appearances.
- 1LP Vinyl: Remastered version of the original album.
In addition to Brotherhood, reissues of the respective 12” singles Bizarre Love Triangle, State Of The Nation, and Touched By The Hand Of God will also be available, making this a must-have collection for fans and collectors alike.
Conclusion: A Journey Through Music History
The second season of Transmissions: The Definitive Story of Joy Division & New Order is more than just a podcast; it’s a journey through the history of one of the most influential bands in modern music. From their early days as Joy Division to their rise as New Order, this season captures the essence of their evolution and enduring legacy. With exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and deep dives into their most iconic albums and moments, this season is a must-listen for any music fan.
