Closer cover

Closer

Released

The second and last formal studio album by Joy Division, Closer may have slightly less of a visual subcultural impact compared to the iconic cover design of Unknown Pleasures, but musically it found the band taking on new strengths and approaches more than ever. From the rumbling Can-like groove of “Atrocity Exhibition” to the solemn piano-led ballad “The Eternal” and the stark, slow descent of “Decades,” the quartet translated its earlier intensity into a mysterious, murky realm, Ian Curtis’s compelling vocals and lyrics remaining a key constant.

Ned Raggett

Recommended by

Suggestions
In Debt cover

In Debt

Disco Inferno
Back Home cover

Back Home

Big Joanie
Legião Urbana cover

Legião Urbana

Legião Urbana
Insularia cover

Insularia

Faith & Disease
Emergency & I cover

Emergency & I

The Dismemberment Plan
Wish cover

Wish

The Cure
On Any Normal Monday cover

On Any Normal Monday

Cleaners from Venus
Curse cover

Curse

The Legendary Pink Dots