Covering an iconic song is always risky. It is often difficult to bring something new to the mix. Joe Cocker’s version of the Beatles’ ‘With A Little Help From My Friends’ stands out as probably the most successful example of the genre. It is to be noted that after he realeased his version the Beatles sent him a note saying ‘Thank You’
Blue Monday by New Order is a seminal track from the height of 1980’s synth pop. Running to seven and half minutes it is one of the longest recordings ever to grace the UK Top 20. It was released as a 12″ single and also holds the distinction of being the biggest selling disc in that format with sales over 700,000. The song has been widely championed, and is ranked by ‘Acclaimed Music’ as the 38th most acclaimed song of all time. Indeed it is instantly recognisable.
But what would it have sounded like if it had been made 50 years earlier? In a special film, using only instruments available in the 1930s – from the theremin and musical saw to the harmonium and prepared piano – the mysterious Orkestra Obsolete present this classic track as you’ve never heard it before.
