#neworder #joydivision #peterhook
In September 2016, I went to my first ever gig. Nervous and alone, I stood among the Manchester crowd comprising all different ages and subcultures. Bringing it together was Peter Hook, co-founder and bassist of Joy Division and New Order. That night, Hook smashed through an extensive setlist covering both bands, concluding with ‘Love Will Tear Us Apart’. Thereafter, I was initiated; this particular show would set the precedent for every gig to follow.
True to name, Peter Hook & The Light (formed in 2010) illuminates a catalogue left to collect dust. With the colourful electronics of New Order came resistance to the band’s past life as Manchester’s finest post-punks. Upon splitting for good in 2007, Hook sought to reverse this trajectory through The Light. Consequently, the atmosphere of their shows is one of pure celebration; from Ian Curtis to Tony Wilson, Rob Gretton to Martin Hannett, Factory folklore comes positively to life.
Eight years after that night in Manchester, I have the pleasure of interviewing Hook for his current Substance tour. Through the window in front of me I can spot the higher echelons of York Barbican where The Light will play in October. More immediately, however, my laptop screen is hit with the dreaded notification:
‘Peter Hook has joined the waiting room.’
Sh*t.
More here: https://www.soundspheremag.com/