Monaco (Expanded Edition)

Peter Hook (of New Order/Joy Division fame) returns with the second release from his band Monaco (following 1997's Music for Pleasure), and quite honestly it is one of the best New Order albums they never made. Lead vocalist David Potts is a dead ringer for Bernard Sumner (even Peter Hook sounds like Sumner when he takes over the lead vocals), and the music is pure New Order. This is not necessarily a criticism, as the music on this CD is truly wonderful. Strong melodies, with hooks (absolutely no pun intended) that never leave the listener's head. Lyrically it is a much happier CD than the average New Order CD, full of love songs about pure devotion. This may alarm some fans who have their own ideas about Hook and his musical legacy (remember Hook's first offshoot band, Revenge was a very angry period). But that is overlooked quickly because this music is just so catchy and energetic. Quite simply, this is truly pure pop, with a strong dance beat. It is well produced, and an enjoyable album. ~ Aaron Badgley