Search - New Order :: Technique

Ah yes, back when New Order was still good

S. Kosloske | Milwaukee, WI USA | 07/09/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"It seems like lately they're little more than a tribute band of themselves, but Technique belongs in any serious New Order fan's collection."

A captivating mixture.

Camilo Rueda Lopez | San Sebastian de Los Reyes, MADRID Spain | 09/12/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Might not be the best album out there from New Order's discography for both the critics and specialized media but, however, it is definitely one of the most recommended and enjoyable for any newbie and loyal fan indeed, as it defines what this band is all about by blending the best from their both styles which result a captivating mixture: alternative guitar pop over an acid techno base, spiced up with Bernard Sumner's engaging voice.



It just brings back the best electronic atmosphere from Substance revamped up with the guitars from Republic, making it the perfect link between both albums.



Excellent."

Their second masterpiece

H. Jin | Melbourne, Australia | 09/12/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"After the fairly ordinary 'Brotherhood', New Order changed direction once again for their next album. Written and recorded in Ibiza, 'Technique' is clearly influenced by the acid house scene that was emerging at the time. The clearest examples of this can be heard on the highly danceable 'Fine Time', 'Round and Round' and 'Mr Disco'. But even the rock tracks and ballads have house-influenced keyboard lines popping up: good examples include 'All the Way', 'Guilty Partner' and the closer 'Dream Attack'. And there are still odd twists and turns such as the folky 'Run'.



It works perfectly, mainly because New Order are still able to integrate key elements of their sound into even the most frenetic dance tracks. It's a departure of sorts, but still recognisably New Order. The other important point is that 'Technique' is their most consistent album since 'Power Corruption and Lies', so there are no weak songs or awkward moments to bog the album down. The guitar and bass obviously take more of a back seat here than on 'Low Life' or 'Brotherhood', but Morris and especially Gilbert are in top form. Bernard Sumner seems to have put a bit more thought into his lyrics as well, and his often reflective themes provide an interesting contrast to the upbeat, danceable music.



Oddly for such an artistic breakthrough, New Order didn't really continue with this direction, so 'Technique' is a somewhat unique album in their catalogue. Combined with the fact that it's also one of their strongest, this is an essential album even for casual New Order fans. A classic.





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