Transmissions: The Definitive Story of Joy Division & New Order

S1E4: Love Will Tear Us Apart

Nov 19, 2020
In this riveting discussion, graphic designer Peter Saville unveils the haunting choices behind Joy Division's iconic album art. Founding member Bernard Sumner shares first-hand stories of the band's intense studio sessions, revealing tensions over mixing 'Love Will Tear Us Apart'. Bassist Peter Hook reflects on Ian Curtis's battle with epilepsy and the emotional turmoil leading up to his tragic death, as well as how the band navigated their grief and guilt. The complexities of their creative process and the enduring power of their music are explored, making this a poignant reflection on legacy.
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ANECDOTE

Obsessive Late-Night Reworks

  • Martin Hannett repeatedly remixed "Love Will Tear Us Apart," forcing the band to re-record and return to the studio at odd hours.
  • Peter Hook and Stephen Morris describe tense late-night sessions and a snare drum overdub that escalated tempers.
ADVICE

Push For Involvement In Mixing

  • Bands should insist on creative input during mixing to protect their live sound and vision.
  • Bernard Sumner and Peter Hook pushed to be involved after feeling misrepresented by the producer's mixes.
ANECDOTE

Unexpected Visit From U2

  • U2 members, including Bono, unexpectedly visited Britannia Row during Joy Division's sessions and praised a drum part.
  • Stephen Morris recalls Bono complimenting his playing, which Martin then dismissed by cutting the part.
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