New Order Album: “Before & After: The BBC Sessions”

Let's start by saying that both discs are the same BBC Sessions cds as the Joy Division Complete BBC and the New Order BBC Radio cds, so unless you want the special packaging, this is not necessary unless you happen to be a Joy Division or New Order completist. However if you have neither of the aformentioned cds this is an absolutely wonderful purchase.

The music contained on both of these discs is nothing short of fantastic, if not very unpolished. The versions of 'Love Will Tear Us Apart' and 'Colony' on the Joy Division disc sound like complete departures from their in studio counterparts, but the overall sound quality is very accessible. The New Order live set could've been better but it does showcase the essence of New Order live; a sloppy, unpredictable show, but fun nonetheless. The version of 'True Faith' on here is definitely the highlight of the show, though it doesn't match the studio track it is definitely played with a lot of energy, as is the manic 'Age Of Consent' with guitars turned up and Bernard Sumner even shouting a few lines (dreadfully out of key nonetheless). The version of Bizarre Live Triangle is slightly faster an even in a different key (and it sounded like someone forgot to tell Mr. Sumner that too). Though both discs showcase the music in its most under-produced form, they are no doubt essential to fans of Joy Division and New Order. This set, however, does basically make the separate releases somewhat obsolete.

This set is worth it just for the Joy Division disk. It's a great recording of an important band. Joy Division was recorded here for the John Peel Show. It's sound quality is excellent as are most of Peel's recordings. The New Order disk on the other hand was recorded live at a large festival and isn't comprised of their best material or their best live recording. Get this one but also get New Order's "The Peel Sessions". That live recording of New Order is amazing.

This buy that i pick up beacause in U.S.A. version of (new order international) did not have the bonus 5 tracks.

But have listen to this 2-cd set it AMAZING SET disc 1 joy division WOW i have all the hook's from stepehen in my head and ian vocal stressing is great to hear do RAW and the pain is there.

DISC 2 some of the review of this disc are very hard on the boys this is great stuff SISTER RAY is to die for i would love to see these guys in U.S.A. but for now it the cd's that will do-it for me. love and peace to all....