The “Substance 2024” tour, headlined by Peter Hook and the Light, offers an unprecedented experience by bringing together two iconic albums from the legendary bands New Order and Joy Division. This tour promises to be a spectacular event, celebrating the rich musical heritage of these influential groups from Manchester, who left an indelible mark on the music scene in the late 1970s and 1980s.
Fans in Glasgow, eager to witness this musical journey, showed up early, despite the absence of any opening acts. The anticipation was electric, as the audience prepared themselves for an evening dedicated solely to reliving the classic hits that have become anthems for generations. With no supporting acts to precede them, Peter Hook and the Light were the sole focus of the night, ensuring an intense and immersive experience.
This tour not only revisits the pivotal music that shaped an era but also serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Manchester’s two most celebrated bands. It’s a rare opportunity for fans to experience live performances of tracks from both “Substance” albums, each a compilation of seminal works by New Order and Joy Division respectively. This convergence of musical giants in one tour is a tribute to the vibrant and revolutionary spirit of the music that continues to resonate with fans old and new.
The evening began with New Order’s Substance album, starting off with the fantastic track “Regret,” setting the stage for a grand celebration. Hooky was in top form, proudly displaying his signature bass playing style to the crowd in Glasgow. The Substance album served as an ideal representation of New Order, featuring popular hits and several fan favourites.
The audience in Glasgow, composed of various age groups, demonstrated that the music of both bands continues to influence current audiences and other bands. Hooky diverged from the usual track listing during the performance. Highlights from the New Order set included tracks like “Crystal,” “Ceremony,” and the outstanding “Shellshock.
Glasgow was alive with jubilation, resonating with the melodies and cheers as the band delivered a mesmerizing performance. The audience was thoroughly captivated, revelling in each moment. The smiles on the band members’ faces were evident, showing their sheer delight while performing at the O2 Academy. They concluded their New Order performance with the iconic “True Faith,” which electrified the atmosphere before Hooky and his bandmates briefly exited the stage.
The band made a triumphant return to the stage, captivating the Glasgow crowd with their rendition of Joy Division’s “Substance.” The concert kicked off with “Exercise One,” immediately gripping the audience’s attention and drawing them into the nostalgic embrace of the music. Peter Hook, affectionately known as Hooky, had the crowd hanging on every note, demonstrating the enduring allure and impact of Joy Division’s sound. Even decades after the band’s inception in 1978, the power and intensity of their music remain as resonant and influential as ever, continuing to inspire and move both old fans and new listeners alike.
The performance featured some standout moments, particularly with the crowd favourites, yet it was tracks like Leaders of Men, Heart and Soul, and Dead Souls that truly resonated, showcasing the immense talent that defined the band in their heyday. The energy in the room reached new heights as the Glasgow audience passionately sang along to She’s Lost Control, Warsaw, and Transmission.
The vitality of the music, complemented by Peter Hook’s vocals, encapsulated the band’s powerful sound. This music defined a generation, which over time, is shaping a new one. The concert concluded fittingly with their iconic anthem, “Love Will Tear Us Apart.
As the band members lined up for their final bow on stage, the evening was destined to be etched in the memories of both longtime enthusiasts and new admirers. This memorable night would prompt fans to delve into their music collections in the days to come, eager to relive the exhilarating experience of ‘Substance 2024: The Music of New Order and Joy Division.’ The concert, a vibrant homage to the influential sounds of both iconic groups, not only celebrated their legendary tracks but also reignited the passion for post-punk and new wave music among the audience. It was an evening that transcended time, connecting past hits with present listeners, all bound by the universal language of music.
Don’t miss out on a spectacular performance! Catch Peter Hook and the Light at a nearby venue as they bring the music of a generation to life.
Review and Photographs by James Edmond Photography
