In 1979 a little-known band, who had previously been playing under the name of ‘Warsaw’, released, ‘Unknown Pleasures’. ‘Joy Division’ had been born and their new record was gaining a lot of interest from fans and music critics. It was the end of the Punk era and people wanted a new sound and ‘Unknown pleasures’ delivered it.

Joy Division had all the destructive energy of Punk but they also had a great deal of introspection in their music. This was a time for new styles and new ideas. ‘Unknown Pleasures’ was reminiscent of Punk with some of its guitar, but it also made use of a more industrial sound. Ian Curtis’ tortured voice leant a melancholy feel to the album. Sometimes he sang quietly and on other tracks he shouted, his voice full of anger and dissatisfaction.

‘Unknown Pleasures’ is not an album that is easy listening. It will make you think and it will cause you to tap your feet, but it will not induce a smile. The depression that plagued, and eventually killed, Ian Curtis is evident on every track. Sometimes it is in the words and sometimes it is in the music but, more often than not, it is present in both.

When you hear all this you probably wonder why you would want to listen to such a record in the first place. Well, that is because I forgot to mention the genius involved in it. ‘Unknown Pleasures’ is a dark masterpiece. You may not want to sit and listen to it if you have just split up with your girlfriend, but when you are in the right frame of mind it is actually very enjoyable. Joy Division paved the way for a whole new generation of bands and their work has been incredibly influential in many different areas of music.

The death of the troubled Ian Curtis may have brought an untimely end to them, but when Joy Division created ‘Unknown Pleasures’ they created a classic.

Finally, it is time for my sensational link of the month. I have lately found upon this article called Enigin, not only is this company great at what they do, but I am really loving this article as well. You guys should really look at them!