In the late 80s, Factory Records was at the height of its success thanks to two bands – Joy Division and New Order – and the single-minded company director, Anthony H. Wilson. This is the fascinating story of the rise and fall of this influential independent UK record company. Drawing on exclusive interviews, Mike Middles uncovers the real story behind the company that fell so dramatically from unprecedented global success to an all-time low by 1992, when the back catalogue had been sold off and its key bands were in disarray. The classic warts-and-all history of Factory Records, told by one of Manchester's leading music writers.
At the start, I felt Mick was a bit of a sycophant. And he may well be. As things progress, I was able to put that aside and was quite fascinated with this slice of British music history. And really, being sycphantic is not a bad thing in context. Anyone who was around when the music came out, or anyone who loves electro pop, dance and DJ culture should enjoy this. Me, I always love the Brits and their writing. I enjoy the quiet humour. Does that sound sycophantic???
Monaco only proves that Peter Hook was/is much more than New Order's bass player. Clearly, Monaco establishes the fact that Hook was/is one of the primary songwriters in the band. He might be THE songwriting force behind the band. These songs echo New Order (especially when a certain and most distinct bass dances it way through every song). Any fan will instantly recognize the melodies, beats, arrangements, and overall feel of NO. Even the vocals could have been lifted right off of a recent NO release. And that is no bad thing. If it helps, think of this as another great New Order offering.
Song-wise, one could easily believe this is just a slight trip down a new path for the band. However, knowing this is Hook's post-Revenge side project, there are some creative twists and turns. Some hear an Oasis hook or two amongst Hook's hooks (sorry!) and I am no exception. There are moments when I imagine Peter and Noel Gallagher sitting in a room together (with bass and guitar in hand, respectively) banging out some very catchy tunes. Again, this is no bad thing. Both are master songwriters.
There are even hints of the Pet Shop Boys' pop-genius here. Certainly, Monaco has sprinkles of other-greatness flavoring every song. No doubt, David Potts (with Hook's Revenge) contributes no small part to this masterpiece. Blending what's best of the 80's with what's best of the 90's, this is one unique breed of sound.
This all happens in a context that is way past Hook's Revenge stage. No longer is he feeling the need to escape that New Order sound- his sound (that persistent, driving, melodic bass). Here, Hook embraces all that he is, all that New Order is, and ultimately, all that Monaco is. This is a mature, expansive, emotional, danceable, and beautiful thing. This is music for the sake of music. In one word... PURE.
Monaco is, in retrospect, after hearing NO's Get Ready and Waiting for the Sirens' Call, the fulcrum at which NO's past meets and welcomes the future. It is a seminal moment in New Order's timeline, and a completely unique thing unto itself as the transient but evolutionary Monaco. But it is truly impossible to deny that Monaco plays a pivotal role in the New Order story.
This cd oozes with melody. There's nothing here that will offend any New Order fan. Think of it as New Order bonus material. Really good bonus material. It is both transitional and original. It is certainly good and New. Inspirational and... music for pleasure, indeed!
