Jia Lissa
Manchester’s iconic indie-electronic pioneers, New Order, have officially announced the impending release of an expansive, remastered compilation suite titled ‘The Best & The Rest Of’, slated for global distribution on July 17th via Warner Music. This comprehensive collection aims to celebrate the band’s unparalleled legacy by bringing together two seminal compilations from the mid-1990s, alongside a wealth of additional material, including previously unreleased remixes and long-sought-after rarities, presented in multiple deluxe formats.
A Deep Dive into the Compilation’s Offerings
The cornerstone of this forthcoming release is the four-CD deluxe edition, which meticulously consolidates the band’s classic 1994 compilation, ‘The Best of New Order’, with its 1995 counterpart, ‘The Rest of New Order’. These two original collections served as definitive snapshots of the band’s career at the time, with ‘The Best of New Order’ focusing on their most commercially successful and critically acclaimed singles, while ‘The Rest of New Order’ delved into the rich tapestry of their B-sides, album tracks, and deeper cuts. The new four-CD set elevates this offering by including a crucial third disc exclusively dedicated to remixes, featuring both unveiled versions and highly anticipated rarities that have been elusive to fans for years.
Beyond the multi-disc editions, ‘The Best & The Rest Of’ will also be available in its original compact disc configurations, allowing purists to revisit the compilations as they were first presented. For vinyl enthusiasts and collectors, both ‘The Best of New Order’ and ‘The Rest of New Order’ will be available individually as double and triple vinyl box sets, respectively. These vinyl editions are further enhanced by the inclusion of exclusive limited-edition pressings in striking pink and blue hues, adding a tangible element of collectibility for dedicated fans. The range of formats underscores Warner Music’s commitment to catering to diverse audiophile preferences, from digital streaming to high-fidelity physical media.
New Order’s Enduring Legacy: From Joy Division to Global Influence
The announcement of ‘The Best & The Rest Of’ arrives at a point where New Order’s influence remains as potent as ever, underscoring their unique position in music history. Formed in 1980 from the ashes of the highly influential post-punk band Joy Division, following the tragic death of vocalist Ian Curtis, New Order embarked on a transformative journey. Founding members Bernard Sumner (vocals, guitar, synthesizers), Peter Hook (bass), and Stephen Morris (drums, synthesizers) were soon joined by Gillian Gilbert (synthesizers, guitar), solidifying a lineup that would redefine the boundaries between rock, electronic music, and dance culture.
Their early sound, characterized by a blend of raw post-punk energy and nascent electronic textures, quickly evolved into a sophisticated fusion that embraced synthesizers, sequencers, and drum machines, particularly under the influence of New York’s nascent club scene. This innovative approach gave birth to seminal tracks like "Blue Monday" (1983), which remains the best-selling 12-inch single of all time, and "Temptation" (1982), both instrumental in shaping the sound of the 1980s and beyond. New Order, alongside their associated label Factory Records and the legendary Hacienda nightclub in Manchester, became synonymous with the ‘Madchester’ scene and the broader acid house movement, demonstrating an unparalleled ability to bridge alternative rock aesthetics with pulsating dancefloor rhythms.
The Original Compilations: A Mid-Nineties Retrospective
The original ‘The Best of New Order’ and ‘The Rest of New Order’ compilations were strategically released in 1994 and 1995, respectively, serving as comprehensive career retrospectives during a period of shifting musical landscapes. By the mid-1990s, New Order had firmly established themselves as critical darlings and commercial successes, boasting a discography rich with groundbreaking albums such as ‘Power, Corruption & Lies’ (1983), ‘Low-Life’ (1985), ‘Brotherhood’ (1986), and ‘Technique’ (1989).
‘The Best of New Order’ offered a meticulously curated selection of their most iconic singles, including "Blue Monday," "True Faith," "Bizarre Love Triangle," "Regret," and "World in Motion." It served as an ideal entry point for new listeners while providing long-time fans with a streamlined collection of their hits. The album achieved significant commercial success, cementing New Order’s status as mainstream innovators.
Following closely, ‘The Rest of New Order’ provided a deeper dive into the band’s extensive catalog, showcasing their versatility and experimental spirit. This compilation featured B-sides like "Confusion," "Procession," and "Murder," alongside album tracks and lesser-known gems that highlighted the band’s artistic depth beyond their chart-toppers. Together, these two compilations painted a comprehensive picture of New Order’s first fifteen years, documenting their evolution from post-punk experimentalists to global electronic music pioneers. The current remastering and re-packaging of these collections underline their enduring relevance and the timeless quality of the music contained within.
The Art of the Remix: New Order’s Dance Music Tapestry
A defining characteristic of New Order’s career, and a central theme of ‘The Best & The Rest Of’ compilation, is their longstanding and profound connection to dance music culture, largely expressed through the art of the remix. From their early association with New York’s Paradise Garage and the burgeoning disco scene to their pivotal role in the UK’s rave revolution, New Order consistently embraced and championed the remix as a creative tool, allowing their tracks to transcend genres and reach new audiences on the dancefloor.
The newly added remix disc within the four-CD edition, as well as the overall emphasis on reworked tracks, highlights this symbiotic relationship. The collection features contributions from an illustrious roster of influential producers and remixers, each bringing their unique sonic signature to New Order’s compositions. These remixes are not merely alternative versions but often re-imaginings that reveal new facets of the original tracks, demonstrating their adaptability and timeless appeal.
Among the standout inclusions are Shep Pettibone’s iconic rework of "True Faith." Pettibone, a legendary New York DJ and producer, was instrumental in shaping the sound of 1980s pop and dance music, notably through his collaborations with Madonna. His "True Faith" remix infused the track with a vibrant, synth-driven energy that made it a staple in clubs worldwide, expanding its reach beyond alternative radio.
Another significant contribution comes from Howie B, whose take on "Age of Consent" offers a distinct sonic interpretation. Howie B, known for his work with artists like Björk and U2, brings a more experimental, trip-hop influenced sensibility, showcasing the track’s potential for atmospheric and textural exploration. CJ Bolland’s version of "Temptation" further emphasizes the collection’s electronic credentials. Bolland, a Belgian techno maestro, injects the classic track with a driving, propulsive techno rhythm, transforming it into a high-octane dancefloor anthem.
The inclusion of Dave Clarke’s remix of "Everything’s Gone Green" is particularly noteworthy. Clarke, often referred to as "The Baron of Techno," is revered for his uncompromising and influential contributions to techno music. His remix likely offers a darker, more industrial edge, demonstrating the breadth of New Order’s appeal across various electronic subgenres.
The tracklist further boasts an array of other seminal figures in electronic music. Hardfloor, the German acid house duo, are known for their distinctive 303 bassline manipulations, promising a dynamic and psychedelic interpretation of their chosen track. Lionrock, the project of revered DJ and producer Justin Robertson, adds a distinct blend of progressive house and breakbeat influences. Richie Hawtin, a titan of minimal techno and electronic music innovation, provides a remix that will undoubtedly showcase his signature meticulous sound design and hypnotic rhythms. Joe T. Vannelli, an Italian house music pioneer, contributes a remix that likely leans into the soulful and uplifting traditions of house.
Perhaps one of the most poignant inclusions is a contribution from Andrew Weatherall’s Sabres of Paradise. Weatherall, a legendary DJ, producer, and cultural icon, who sadly passed away in 2020, was a pivotal figure in British electronic music, known for his eclectic tastes and groundbreaking remixes. His involvement with Sabres of Paradise ensures a remix that is both musically adventurous and deeply rooted in the UK’s rave and alternative dance scene, offering a fitting tribute to his enduring impact.
Broader Impact and Implications for New Order’s Legacy
The release of ‘The Best & The Rest Of’ is more than just a re-packaging of old material; it’s a strategic move that reinforces New Order’s relevance in the contemporary music landscape. In an era dominated by streaming and digital consumption, physical releases, especially deluxe, remastered editions, cater to a dedicated fanbase that values tangible artifacts and superior audio quality. The limited-edition pink and blue vinyl pressings are designed to appeal to collectors, driving engagement and providing a unique incentive for purchase.
For long-time fans, this compilation offers a fresh perspective on beloved tracks through the lens of remastering and the inclusion of rare remixes. It allows for a rediscovery of the band’s evolution and the intricate ways in which their music was interpreted by some of the world’s leading electronic artists. For newer generations of listeners, ‘The Best & The Rest Of’ serves as an authoritative introduction to New Order’s monumental catalog, presenting their most celebrated works and their deep connections to dance culture in a cohesive and comprehensive package.
The timing of this release also aligns with a renewed appreciation for 1980s and 1990s alternative and electronic music, as evidenced by resurgence in vinyl sales and documentary interest in the era. New Order’s sound, which masterfully blended melancholic melodies with pulsating rhythms, continues to inspire countless artists across genres, from indie-rock to techno. This compilation solidifies their position not just as pioneers, but as enduring innovators whose music continues to resonate globally.
Warner Music’s decision to invest in such a comprehensive and high-quality release underscores the commercial and cultural value still inherent in New Order’s intellectual property. It’s a testament to the band’s artistic integrity and their consistent ability to produce music that transcends temporal boundaries. The careful curation of the remix disc, in particular, highlights how New Order’s compositions were not just songs, but canvases for reinterpretation, demonstrating the collaborative spirit that defined much of the electronic music movement.
Ultimately, ‘The Best & The Rest Of’ is poised to be a definitive collection, offering a panoramic view of New Order’s extraordinary career. It celebrates their iconic hits, illuminates their deeper cuts, and crucially, spotlights their pivotal role in shaping modern dance music through the innovative contributions of a stellar lineup of remixers. As July 17th approaches, anticipation will undoubtedly build for what promises to be an essential addition to any music enthusiast’s collection, reaffirming New Order’s indelible mark on popular culture. Fans can secure their copies of ‘(The Best & The Rest Of) New Order’ via the band’s official store.
