Sound: By far one of the most influencial bands ever to grace the world, Joy Division had a sound that was unique, but still familiar enough to draw in new listeners. This boxset contains nearly every song the band had recorded, and the best quality live versions of the best songs. For the new listeners, the iconic "Love Will Tear Us Apart" will no doubt fuel the ambition to listen to the bands more beautiful, yet heart breaking songs, such as the 5 minute plus glory that is "The Eternal" and the brilliantly simple "Transmission". This record contains the first use I had found of sythesisers that weren't all "dancy", and as a result, fueled my ambition to learn to play this kind of music. I'm sure that Joy Division were responsible for the Rock bands turning "electronic" that happened all too much in the '80s. For some people, the music may be too intense on the first few listens, but discs 1 & 2 has all the tracks in the order of which they were released, so you can see the bands progression from seedy post-punk, to the frightenly amazing narrators of the human condition they would eventually evolve into upon the "Closer" album. However, for most Joy Division newbies, they may be dissapointed by the live songs. Please remember that they were recorded in 1978-80, and were pretty well preserved considering the time. Beggers can't be chosers mind you. // 9
Lyrics and Singing: The lyrical genious of the later songs really add to the wonder of the music. Ian Curtis was definately a talented poet and songwriter. His vocal range, however, leaves much to be desired. Most of the songs are in a monotonal voice that would annoy that who aren't dedicated or are used to it, but the rare moments where he lets his emotion flow out (mostly on the live version on discs 3 & 4) really shows off his stage presence and way of keeping you captivated. The lyrics blend in really well with the instruments, although in some songs are mixed a bit low. // 10
Impression: The most impressive songs are the later ones. No one can really understand just how impressive the lyrics and innovations are until they are right infront of you. I hate nothing about this album, and mostly love the Rarities CD (3). Highlight songs on this album include the debut of "Love Will Tear Us Apart" on a Peel session, and the 2 different version of "Atmotshpere", which only just peek through the rest of the impressive lineup. I would definately buy this rare album again if it were stolen. // 10
![Heart And Soul [Box Set]](/reviews/images/10_747_15015.jpg)
