Just as Nirvana in the 1990s but on a more underground level, Joy Division left its indelible mark on the alt music world.
Disco and punk were all the rage when a small group from a working class neighbourhood in Manchester drew its energy from the punk movement to create a different sound.
The post-punk band Joy Division attracted the attention of Tony Wilson, a Manchester television personality, and he signed them on the spot. They rapidly won over the critics. Singer Ian Curtis helped direct the group into music history.
Depressed, stuck in a failing marriage, this slight civil servant stepped out of himself when he got behind a mic and started singing about his despair. He was later diagnosed with epilepsy. He spiralled deeper into depression and a few days before the group was leaving on its first U.S. tour, Ian Curtis hung himself, on May 18, 1980. He became an instant tragic legend in the music world.
The remaining members of Joy Division renamed themselves New Order. This group has been highly successfully but with a more electronic sound.
On the 30th anniversary of his death, a school in Ian Curtis’ hometown, Macclesfield, 30 kilometres south of Manchester, is praying tribute to the late singer. Students will perform several of the group’s songs with the help of a symphony orchestra.
Helen Quayle, education co-ordinator for the Manchester-based ensemble. She says: "[Joy Division’s] style of music is quite sparse and simple. The kids can understand and take elements of that and write for a string quartet using the same technique."
The ensemble will perform between July 29 and August 7.