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Jul 19, 2017 Web Exclusive By Matthew Berlyant

The very first thing that readers will notice about Peter Hook’s new book detailing his time in New Order is its length. At 768 pages, it isn’t light summer reading and fans will pore over it for weeks or even months getting through all the little, intricate details that Hook ably provides. Following up on his books detailing the history of Joy Division and The Hacienda (which overlaps with New Order’s history, so he details it here in part, too), Substance starts off detailing New Order’s earliest days in the early ‘80s and ends with Hook leaving the band in 2007. In between, again in exquisite detail (how Hook remembers this stuff given his substance consumption and alcoholism, both of which are dealt with in great detail here, is anyone’s guess) is the complete history of New Order from cult status to worldwide stardom, an initial breakup and an unexpected early ‘00s reunion, albeit all with his distinct point of view. Though much of the rancor that he has is directed at New Order’s lead singer Bernard “Barney” Sumner, Hook is fair in that he criticizes his own behavior and acknowledges Sumner’s immense songwriting talent and his musicianship on synth and guitar. Readers get a sense that the road warrior Hook just didn’t belong in a group that was, over time, ruled more and more by a singer who didn’t like touring and who had less time for Hook’s distinctive and iconic bass playing as New Order’s sound went more and more electronic-heavy. Since his side projects Revenge, Monaco and Freebass also took place during his time in New Order, they are detailed here as well. Overall, Hook is compelling here as an author, narrator and a flawed but likeable human being. (www.deystreetbooks.com)

Author rating: 7.5/10