Peter Hook’s legacy is formidable as is his rich back catalogue. He was the bassist for Joy Division, one of the most influential post‑punk bands, (despite only releasing two records) and for New Order, pioneers of post‑punk and electronic dance music. After leaving New Order he briefly formed Monaco, and in 2010 he established Peter Hook and the Light.
Tonight is divided into two parts: Set 1 is New Order’s album Get Ready whilst Set 2 is comprised of songs by Joy Division, Monaco and New Order.
As the lights dim. the members of Peter Hook and the light including Hooky make their way onto the stage. The set is minimal with column lights providing the effects for the night and the focus is on the music.
Opening strongly with New Order’s “Crystal” Hooky is on vocals with his bass strung low playing his signature bass sound. For those thinking this will be a seated show, they’re mistaken. The crowd in the stalls are on their feet for the entirety of the show. The energy on stage is electric, playing off that of the crowd. New Order’s album Get Ready is played in order from start to finish.
Guitarist David Potts takes on vocal duties for “60 Miles an Hour,” his voice reminiscent of Bernard Sumner and with the addition of Peter Hook’s signature bass lines, they sound more like New Order than New Order ! That and the fact that at a Peter Hook and the Light show there is an intimacy and connection with the crowd and an emphasis on the music which can be lost at New Order stadium gigs with special effects.
“This is the first place New order played in 1984, and the first place The Light played. For my 50th anniversary I’m looking forward to playing this song,” exclaims Hooky, before launching into fan and band favourite the uptempo “Crafty.” His low bass notes punctuating the song.
“This is dedicated to Ian Curtis, rest his soul,” states Peter Hook ( referring to the frontman of Joy Division who took his own life ; the surviving members formed New Order). The second set kicks off with Joy Division cover “No Love Lost.” “Digital,” follows shortly after, is a highlight of many during tonight’s sets, and sees Hooky perform a small twirl in the middle of the song much to the audience’s delight.
“She’s Lost Control,” is epic as is the melancholy ballad “Atmosphere” featuring gobsmacking drumming courtesy of Paul Kehoe. Peter Hook’s son Jack Bates is keeping fine rhythm on second bass and Martin Rebelski on keyboards, replicating soundscapes perfectly for all three of Hooky’s bands.
“This is special to me,” confesses Hooky, and dedicates “Atmosphere” to late Manchester music fan and Manchester City supporter Nicky Clarke.
“Bizarre Love Triangle” sees the throng dancing with wild abandon. The energy in the Palais is palpable. The high energy beats do not abate, with “Temptation” and the best selling 12 inch single of all time, “Blue Monday” replete with Peter Hook’s signature bass line, blue slim lights ablaze and punters have gone wild.
Hooky says goodbye with Joy Division’s wondrous “Love Will Tear Us Apart,” a fitting end the 25 th anniversary of “Get Ready,” and a celebration of three bands’ timeless music. Peter Hook and The Light live has the missing magic element which made New Order unforgettable and is one of the best shows of the year.
Setlist
Set 1, New Order’s ‘Get Ready’ album
1. Crystal
2. 60 Miles an Hour
3. Turn my Way
4. Vicious Streak
5. Primitive Notion
6. Slow Jam
7. Rock the Shack
8. Someone Like You
9. Close Rage
10. Run Wild
11. Crafty
12. Here to Stay
Set 2 Joy Division, New order and Monaco
Joy Division
13. No Love Lost
14. Digital
15. Warsaw
16. Disorder
17. New Dawn Fades
18.She’s Lost Control
19. Shadowplay
20.Transmission
21.Atmosphere
New Order
22. Your Silent Face
23. Regret
24. What Do you Want From Me (Monaco)
25. Shine (Monaco)
27. Bizarre Love Triangle (New Order)
28. Temptation (New Order)
29. Blue Monday ( New Order)
30.Love Will Tear us Apart ( Joy Division)
