Movement is New Order‘s debut album, released in 1981. It was recorded in the wake of Joy Division singer Ian Curtis‘ suicide, with the remaining members of the band choosing to carry on on under a new moniker. The sound is definitely a bit darker than the synth-pop that New Order would later cultivate, and there are certainly traces of their old band sprinkled throughout the tracks (some of that, assuredly, is owed to the fact that Martin Hannett, who worked frequently with Joy Division, produced the album). Check “Dreams Never End,” “Truth,” “ICB” (rumored to stand for “Ian Curtis Buried”) and “Doubts Even Here” for some examples. Even though many fans weren’t happy with this LP when it was released, it’s certainly regarded as a classic now.

• black vinyl pressing
• original release year: 1981
• music label: London Records 2025

reviewed by Hires 05/2010