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As Salford legend Peter Hook left the stage of Cardiff’s Tramshed following an explosive encore culminating in Love Will Tear Us Apart, there was a feeling of pure shared bliss between the sold out crowd. It’s hard to articulate it. Misty-eyed fans of all ages seemed frozen in the moment, trying to process what they had just seen and heard. For all of Joy Division’s reputation as being a gloomy band, the response to Hook’s rendition of the 70s post-punk legends’ 2 albums was nothing short of jubilant.
Peter Hook, best known as the bassist for Joy Division and subsequently New Order, is almost always on the road keeping the works of the two enormously influential bands alive. While New Order themselves continue without him, their overpriced shows are lacking in what Hooky consistently brings to the table - genuine heart, and passion for the music and the bands’ legacies. Currently touring Joy Division: A Celebration, the bulk of the gig is dedicated to complete playthroughs of the band’s two seminal albums - Unknown Pleasures, and Closer. An opening set of New Order material and encores of other Joy Division classics is just the icing on the cake, as the albums are worth the price of admission alone.
Peter Hook, along with long-time band The Light, faithfully capture the unique Joy Division sound with an uncanny raw power. Every single track sounds magnificently faithful and yet far more impactful, with Hooky’s powerful vocals proving perfectly suited for the late Ian Curtis’ songs. With his trademark low-hanging bass, Hooky plays flawlessly. It becomes clear throughout the night that the bass was ever so instrumental (if you’ll pardon the pun) to the two bands’ unique sounds, and to be in the presence of this master is surreal. The Light are all impeccable musicians, too, and aid in these stunning renditions of Joy Division and New Order’s celebrated works.
There isn’t a bad word one can say about a Peter Hook gig. The infectious heart and soul that goes into the performances quickly spill into the crowd, resulting in a loving and celebratory energy throughout - while some of the songs may be dark and distressing, the response to each is always joyous. I would even go so far as to say that you can do no better than a Hooky gig; everything about them is perfect and unlike anything else you’ll find on the live music scene.
Peter Hook cements the iconic reputation and legacy of Joy Division and New Order, and also himself, with his live performances - and there’s still time to catch him on his current tour. Be prepared to beg, barter, or steal, though, as it’s looking pretty sold out across the board…There’s always his October tour!
Upcoming dates and more info: https://peterhookandthelight.live/