New Order

Definition

New Order was a British band formed in 1980 that emerged from the post-punk scene and became one of the most influential acts in the New Wave and synthpop genres. The band is known for its innovative use of technology, merging electronic music with traditional rock elements, which helped define the sound of the 1980s and laid the groundwork for future pop and electronic music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. New Order's music combined rock elements with synthesizers and drum machines, creating a danceable yet introspective sound that resonated with audiences.
2. Their breakthrough album, 'Power, Corruption & Lies,' released in 1983, showcased their ability to blend catchy melodies with electronic production techniques.
3. The band is also known for their hit singles such as 'Blue Monday,' which became the best-selling 12-inch single of all time, showcasing their influence on dance music.
4. New Order played a crucial role in the evolution of the music video as an art form, using visually striking imagery to enhance their music's themes.
5. The band's unique sound and style not only defined an era but also inspired countless artists across multiple genres, solidifying their legacy in popular music history.

Review Questions

• How did New Order’s sound reflect the characteristics of both post-punk and new wave genres?
  • New Order's sound embodies elements of both post-punk and new wave through its innovative integration of electronic instrumentation with traditional rock structures. Emerging from the post-punk scene, they maintained a sense of introspection and complexity while adopting the upbeat, accessible melodies typical of new wave. This blend allowed them to create music that was both thought-provoking and highly danceable, appealing to a broad audience.
• Discuss the impact of technology on New Order's musical style and production techniques.
  • Technology played a significant role in shaping New Order's musical style. The band's use of synthesizers and drum machines allowed them to explore new sounds that were not possible with traditional instruments. Their pioneering approach to production led to innovative recording techniques that set them apart from their contemporaries. This technological experimentation not only defined their unique sound but also influenced the broader development of synthpop and electronic music in general.
• Evaluate New Order’s contributions to popular music in relation to their lasting influence on subsequent genres like EDM.
  • New Order's contributions to popular music are profound, as they bridged the gap between rock and electronic genres, influencing future styles such as electronic dance music (EDM). Their use of synthesizers and emphasis on rhythm paved the way for EDM's rise in popularity during the late 20th century. By successfully blending emotional depth with danceable beats, New Order set a precedent for countless artists who followed, highlighting their significant role in shaping the landscape of contemporary popular music.

Related terms

Synthesizer: An electronic musical instrument that generates audio signals through various methods, allowing musicians to create unique sounds and textures pivotal in the development of synthpop.

Post-Punk: A genre that emerged after punk rock, characterized by a more experimental approach to music and a focus on incorporating diverse styles and influences, paving the way for bands like New Order.

Electronic Dance Music (EDM): A broad range of percussive electronic music genres that became popular in the late 20th century, heavily influenced by the innovations of bands like New Order.