11 Underrated New Order Songs: Order’s Rare Tracks

Hey there, fellow music enthusiasts and DJs! It’s TBone here, your go-to guide at Level Tunes. Today, I’m thrilled to share a special treat with you all – a list of 11 underrated New Order songs that deserve way more attention.

As a passionate DJ and music lover, nothing excites me more than uncovering hidden gems, especially from a band as influential as New Order.

These tracks, often overshadowed by their more famous hits, showcase the band’s exceptional range and creativity. I’ve spent countless hours digging through their discography, and I’m convinced these songs are not only brilliant but also pivotal in understanding the depth of New Order’s artistry.

So, whether you’re a die-hard fan or just dipping your toes into their music, get ready for an auditory journey that promises to surprise and delight. Let’s dive in and explore the lesser-known yet equally captivating side of New Order!

Here are the underrated New Order songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated New Order Songs

Underrated New Order songs in a list format:

1. “Age of Consent” – Power, Corruption & Lies (1983, Factory Records)

“Age of Consent,” from New Order’s 1983 album “Power, Corruption & Lies,” is a track that truly stands out, yet often gets overlooked. This song showcases the band’s transition from their post-punk roots to a more synth-driven sound. Bernard Sumner’s distinctive guitar work melds seamlessly with Peter Hook’s melodic basslines, while Stephen Morris provides a steady, danceable beat. Released under Factory Records, this song captures the essence of the early ’80s alternative scene. I chose it for its energetic vibe and the way it bridges the gap between punk and dance music, a hallmark of New Order’s sound.

2. “Your Silent Face” – Power, Corruption & Lies (1983, Factory Records)

Another gem from “Power, Corruption & Lies,” “Your Silent Face” is a synth-pop masterpiece characterized by its melodic simplicity and emotional depth. The song features an almost classical synth line that complements Sumner’s introspective lyrics. It’s a testament to New Order’s ability to blend electronic music with a sense of human vulnerability. Released in 1983 under Factory Records, this track is a perfect example of the band’s early experimentation with electronic sounds. I included it for its haunting beauty and the way it reflects the band’s artistic growth.

3. “Ecstasy” – Power, Corruption & Lies (1983, Factory Records)

“Ecstasy” is an often-overlooked track from the same album. This instrumental piece is a deep dive into New Order’s electronic explorations, featuring an upbeat tempo and an infectious groove. The song is a showcase of their skill in creating a soundscape that’s both hypnotic and danceable. Released in 1983 by Factory Records, it’s a hidden gem that captures the essence of the band’s innovative spirit. I chose “Ecstasy” for its pure, unadulterated energy and its ability to transport listeners to a different headspace.

4. “Love Vigilantes” – Low-Life (1985, Factory Records)

From their 1985 album “Low-Life,” “Love Vigilantes” offers a surprising blend of electronic and folk elements. The song tells a poignant story through its lyrics, set against a backdrop of upbeat, synth-driven music. Bernard Sumner’s vocal delivery adds a layer of emotional depth. This track, released under Factory Records, showcases New Order’s versatility and willingness to experiment with different genres. I selected it for its narrative strength and its unique position in New Order’s discography as a fusion of folk storytelling and electronic music.

5. “This Time of Night” – Low-Life (1985, Factory Records)

“This Time of Night,” also from “Low-Life,” is a haunting track that blends moody synths with introspective lyrics. The song creates an atmosphere that’s both melancholic and ethereal, showcasing New Order’s ability to evoke deep emotions through their music. Released in 1985 by Factory Records, it’s a testament to the band’s skill in crafting songs that are as contemplative as they are sonically rich. I chose it for its emotional resonance and the way it showcases the band’s more introspective side.

6. “Sooner Than You Think” – Low-Life (1985, Factory Records)

“Sooner Than You Think” is a lively track from “Low-Life” that combines a catchy melody with thought-provoking lyrics. The song has an upbeat tempo that’s characteristic of New Order’s dance-oriented tracks, yet it also offers a reflective look at life’s rapid changes. Released in 1985 under Factory Records, it’s a song that resonates with listeners for its relatable themes and infectious energy. I included it for its blend of introspection and danceability, a combination that New Order masters like no other.

7. “Elegia” – Low-Life (1985, Factory Records)

“Elegia” is a stunning instrumental track from “Low-Life.” This haunting composition serves as a tribute to Ian Curtis, the late lead singer of Joy Division, New Order’s predecessor. The song’s melancholic melody and atmospheric soundscapes create a sense of mourning and reflection. Released in 1985 by Factory Records, it’s a powerful piece that showcases the band’s ability to convey deep emotions without words. I chose “Elegia” for its emotional depth and its significance as a tribute to a fallen friend and bandmate.

8. “All the Way” – Technique (1989, Factory Records)

From their 1989 album “Technique,” “All the Way” is a track that blends New Order’s signature electronic sound with a more guitar-oriented approach. The song features insightful lyrics about the complexities of relationships, set to a melodic and rhythmic backdrop. Released under Factory Records, it’s a track that captures the band’s evolving sound in the late ’80s. I included “All the Way” for its lyrical depth and the seamless integration of electronic and traditional rock elements.

9. “Vanishing Point” – Technique (1989, Factory Records)

“Vanishing Point,” another standout from “Technique,” is a song that perfectly encapsulates the blend of electronic and alternative rock that New Order is known for. The track features an infectious beat, synth lines, and introspective lyrics, creating a sound that’s both reflective and danceable. Released in 1989 by Factory Records, it’s a song that exemplifies the band’s ability to evolve while staying true to their roots. I chose it for its energetic rhythm and its representation of the band’s late ’80s era.

10. “Dream Attack” – Technique (1989, Factory Records)

“Dream Attack,” from “Technique,” is a dreamy, guitar-driven track that showcases a different side of New Order’s musical palette. The song combines a relaxed tempo with lush soundscapes, creating a soothing and introspective listening experience. Released in 1989 under Factory Records, it’s a track that demonstrates the band’s versatility and skill in creating diverse soundscapes. I included “Dream Attack” for its soothing qualities and its ability to showcase the band’s softer, more melodic side.

11. “Run” – Technique (1989, Factory Records)

Lastly, “Run” from “Technique” is a song that combines energetic beats with catchy guitar riffs. The track features upbeat rhythms and positive lyrics, making it a standout in New Order’s catalog. Released in 1989 by Factory Records, it’s a song that captures the band’s ability to create music that’s both uplifting and deeply engaging. I chose “Run” for its invigorating energy and its representation of New Order’s knack for creating music that’s as thought-provoking as it is enjoyable to listen to.

Fun Facts: Underrated New Order Songs

1. “Age of Consent” – Fun Fact

“Age of Consent” is renowned for Peter Hook’s distinctively melodic bassline, which has become one of the most iconic and influential basslines in post-punk and alternative music. The song’s upbeat tempo and vibrant energy have made it a favorite in live performances, often sparking an enthusiastic response from the audience.

2. “Your Silent Face” – Fun Fact

“Your Silent Face” features a rare instance of New Order using a synthesizer to mimic the sound of a classical string instrument, creating a unique blend of electronic and classical music elements. The song’s hauntingly beautiful melody is often cited by fans as a perfect example of New Order’s ability to fuse emotional depth with electronic music.

3. “Ecstasy” – Fun Fact

Interestingly, “Ecstasy” showcases New Order’s early experimentation with house music influences, a genre that was just emerging at the time. This track laid the groundwork for the band’s later forays into dance music and is considered a precursor to the rave and electronic music movements of the late ’80s and early ’90s.

4. “Love Vigilantes” – Fun Fact

“Love Vigilantes” is unique in New Order’s catalog for its use of harmonica, an instrument rarely featured in their music. The song’s narrative storytelling style, which is more akin to folk music, also sets it apart from the band’s typically abstract lyrical approach, offering a glimpse into their versatility as songwriters.

5. “This Time of Night” – Fun Fact

“This Time of Night” is noted for its atmospheric production, which creates a sense of late-night introspection and solitude. The song is often praised for its ability to evoke a specific mood and time of day, demonstrating New Order’s skill in creating immersive and emotionally resonant soundscapes.

6. “Sooner Than You Think” – Fun Fact

“Sooner Than You Think” is interesting for its inclusion of a rare, direct address to the listener in its lyrics, which is not common in New Order’s music. The song’s conversational tone and catchy chorus make it an engaging and relatable track, despite its relative obscurity in the band’s discography.

7. “Elegia” – Fun Fact

“Elegia” is a five-minute edit of a much longer piece, originally lasting over 17 minutes. The full-length version was eventually released on a compilation album, revealing the song’s expansive and meditative quality. Its dedication to Ian Curtis adds a layer of emotional depth and historical significance to the track.

8. “All the Way” – Fun Fact

“All the Way” is notable for its optimistic and uplifting lyrics, a departure from the often melancholic and introspective themes typical of New Order’s music. The song’s positive message and catchy melody have made it a hidden favorite among fans, showcasing the band’s ability to craft uplifting songs.

9. “Vanishing Point” – Fun Fact

“Vanishing Point” gained additional fame when it was used as the theme song for the British TV series “Making Out” in the late 1980s. This exposure introduced New Order’s music to a broader audience and highlighted the band’s influence on the popular culture of the era.

10. “Dream Attack” – Fun Fact

“Dream Attack” is celebrated for its dream-like, ethereal quality, which is achieved through the use of reverb and layered guitar tracks. The song’s lush soundscapes have made it a favorite among fans who appreciate New Order’s ability to create rich, immersive audio experiences.

11. “Run” – Fun Fact

“Run” was later remixed by American musician and producer Scott Litt, known for his work with R.E.M., and this version appeared on some versions of the “Technique” album. The remix brought a different dimension to the track, highlighting New Order’s openness to collaboration and experimentation with different music production styles.

And that’s a wrap on our journey through New Order’s underrated tracks! From the danceable beats to the introspective lyrics, these songs showcase the band’s diverse talents. Thanks for joining me, TBone, on this musical exploration. Keep digging, and you’ll always find hidden treasures in music.

Thanks for reading.

TBone