Description
New Order – Lost Sirens – Vinyl Record and CD Set
New Order’s Lost Sirens, released on January 14, 2013, is a collection of previously unreleased tracks that emerged from the recording sessions for their 2005 album Waiting for the Sirens’ Call. Featuring eight songs, the album showcases the band’s signature blend of post-punk and electronic dance music, with introspective lyrics, driving beats, and melodic synth work. Although not conceived as a cohesive album, Lost Sirens provides an intriguing look at New Order’s creative process during a transitional period.
The album is notable for being one of the last to feature bassist Peter Hook before his departure from the band, making it a bittersweet moment for fans. While it doesn’t contain chart-topping hits, Lost Sirens captures the essence of New Order’s sound, offering both experimental moments and glimpses of their classic style.
Lost Sirens was born out of the Waiting for the Sirens’ Call sessions, a productive period that yielded more material than could fit on a single album. While Waiting for the Sirens’ Call was released in 2005, internal tensions within the band delayed the release of the additional tracks. Peter Hook’s departure in 2007 and subsequent legal disputes further complicated matters, leaving Lost Sirens in limbo for years.
In 2013, the band finally released the tracks, giving fans a chance to hear the material that had been shelved. The album serves as a snapshot of New Order’s creative process during a period of both productivity and upheaval.
The songs on Lost Sirens reflect the eclectic nature of New Order’s music, combining elements of electronic dance, alternative rock, and synth-pop. The production is polished and dynamic, with infectious rhythms, shimmering guitar work, and Bernard Sumner’s introspective lyrics and vocals. The tracks maintain New Order’s ability to balance melancholy and euphoria, though the album feels more like a collection of B-sides than a fully realized project.
Track Highlights
‘I’ll Stay with You’
An upbeat, melodic track that reflects New Order’s pop sensibilities, featuring a bright and driving rhythm. The lyrics convey themes of loyalty and perseverance.
‘Sugarcane’
A groovy, danceable song with a funky bassline and playful energy. Its vibrant arrangement contrasts with its introspective lyrics.
‘Recoil’
A darker, more atmospheric track with a haunting melody and layered production. Its brooding tone harks back to the band’s post-punk roots.
‘Californian Grass’
A reflective, mid-tempo song with shimmering guitar work and wistful lyrics. It has a dreamy quality that captures a sense of longing.
‘Hellbent’
One of the standout tracks, ‘Hellbent’ features a driving beat and anthemic chorus. Originally included on the 2011 Total: From Joy Division to New Order compilation, it’s a powerful example of the band’s knack for blending rock and electronic elements.
‘Shake It Up’
A lively, energetic track with a playful groove. Its upbeat tempo and lighthearted vibe provide a contrast to some of the album’s moodier moments.
‘I’ve Got a Feeling’
This track has a raw, rock-oriented sound, with distorted guitars and a sense of urgency. It’s a departure from the band’s usual polished electronic aesthetic.
‘Untitled’
Closing the album, this instrumental piece is both atmospheric and experimental, showcasing the band’s ability to craft evocative soundscapes.
The themes on Lost Sirens align with much of New Order’s work, exploring love, loss, introspection, and resilience. The lyrics often juxtapose emotional vulnerability with the driving rhythms and uplifting melodies that define their sound. While some tracks feel experimental and less polished, they offer insight into the band’s creative process during the mid-2000s.
Reception and Legacy
Lost Sirens received mixed to positive reviews upon its release. Critics noted that the album lacked the cohesion of New Order’s main studio albums but praised individual tracks for their quality and charm. Fans appreciated the opportunity to hear previously unreleased material, though the album’s delayed release and connection to internal band tensions added a bittersweet element.
Despite its nature as a supplemental release, Lost Sirens serves as an important document of New Order’s history and creative output, particularly as it captures the end of the Peter Hook era.
While not as influential as New Order’s major releases, Lost Sirens holds value as a glimpse into the band’s evolution and their ability to blend genres. It demonstrates their enduring ability to craft engaging music even during periods of turbulence, reinforcing their legacy as pioneers of post-punk and electronic music.
Lost Sirens may not be a groundbreaking entry in New Order’s catalog, but it is a fascinating and worthwhile listen for fans. Its mix of polished tracks and experimental moments highlights the band’s creativity and versatility, offering a window into a complex and transitional period. For those who appreciate New Order’s unique blend of introspection and infectious energy, Lost Sirens provides a rewarding and reflective experience.
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
Warner Brother
Track Listing
Vinyl
I’ll Stay With You
Sugarcane
Recoil
Californian Grass
Hellbent
Shake It Up
I’ve Got A Feeling
I Told You So (Crazy World Mix)
Compact Disc
I’ll Stay With You
Sugarcane
Recoil
Californian Grass
Hellbent
Shake It Up
I’ve Got A Feeling
I Told You So (Crazy World Mix)
