Friday, November 20, 2009

Waiting for the Sirens' Call



Effectively New Order's definitively final studio album (especially in light of the statements made by Bernard Sumner and Peter Hook regarding the band's termination), 2005's 'Waiting for the Sirens' Call' constituted one hell of a swan song for the British rock legends. The record managed to blend all of New Order's essential aesthetics, i.e. the innovative fusion of post-punk sensibilities and alternative-dance grooves, the eminently accessible melodic substance of the songs, and, perhaps most importantly, the band members’ individual instrumental skills, still peerless after decades of abuse.

A particular highlight on 'Waiting for the Sirens' Call' is the title track itself, a track that practically defines the term "frosted-glass elegance", and a classic single in the making that consciously acknowledges several important stages of prime-era New Order: a 'Power, Corruption and Lies'-informed synth-string overlay, 'Low Life'-approved melodic-guitar riffs, and a 'Technique'-styled rhythmic backdrop. Combine all these elements together, and an instant masterpiece that is already becoming a confirmed fan favourite is effortlessly conjured. Check out a typically virtuosic performance of the song on the venerated British music programme 'Later With Jools Holland'.

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