2000 Great Songs #1242: Age Of Consent

Trump is all over the Epstein Files.

And speaking of the age of consent...

New Order's emergence from the ashes of Joy Division saw them moving in two potential directions: They could continue with the original band's somber ambience, filling out the post-punk guitar sound with some keyboards, as on 1981's Movement... or pivot into a more synth-based electronic dance-pop, as on early singles like "Temptation" and "Blue Monday." 1983's Power, Corruption & Lies--arguably the first proper New Order album, with the transitional (yet still amazing) Movement sounding more like the final vestiges of Joy Division--remarkably split the difference. You've got perky electro-pop blended with moodier guitar & bass-driven goth rock, a little something for everyone.

Album opener "Age Of Consent" perfectly displays that unique hybrid sound. Is it upbeat, jangly guitar rock? Melancholy synth-flavored new wave pop? None of the above? It's one of those wonderful New Order gems you can enjoy whether you're in the mood for a good mope or to get up and wiggle your butt.

Live 1983 (with "Blue Monday" as well):

Live 1987:

Unexpected live Built To Spill cover:

Arcade Fire's stripped-down mellow take:

Grant Lee Phillips' jangly Americana cover:

Buffalo Tom's alt.rock cover: