ONE of rock’s iconic figures, Peter Hook will bring his celebration of the legacy of Joy Division back to Limerick for a show at the Milk Market. The founding member of the band will perform both Joy Division albums ‘Unknown Pleasures’ and ‘Closer’ in full plus singles and B sides along with an opening set of New Order material.
If you have seen Peter Hook & The Light at one of their three previous visits to Limerick, you know what a class show you are getting, the band faithfully reproduce Joy Division’s music with a punk energy making for a visceral live experience.
These Joy Division album shows have become much less common for The Light as they move through their progression of touring the New Order albums in succession since 2012.
Chatting on the phone to Peter Hook last week, the legendary bass player is looking forward to his return to Limerick playing another show for Mick Dolan.
“We always have an amazing time. it’s one of those places that has a wonderful vibe to it. As soon as you get there you know you’re going to have a great night.”
As these shows are covering Hook’s early days – it gives us a chance to chat about his earliest days – The first record he bought was ‘Ride A White Swan’ (T-Rex).
“The first record I stole was ‘Ruby Don’t Take Your Love to Town’ (Kenny Rogers) because the choice was limited.”
Joy Division was formed by school friends Hook and Barney Sumner joined by Ian Curtis and eventually drummer Stephen Morris.
Hooky wanted to play in a band because he wanted to be exactly like The Sex Pistols after seeing them play in 1976. He ended up playing bass because Barney already had a guitar that he got for Christmas.
The “wannabe Sid Vicious” was a bit miffed initially that his guitar only had four strings but his “lead bass” playing style has influenced generations of musicians, The Cure, Nirvana and Interpol to name just a few.
On many Joy Division tracks such as ‘She’s Lost Control’ and ‘Disorder’ Hooky’s guitar playing leads the song’s groove and melody with distinctive bass-lines.
Has he any concept of the huge influence his playing has had?
“I don’t dwell on it much maybe because let’s face it, you know, we still have to put the bins out, clear up after the dog and do as we are told by the missus.”
“Every time someone comes up to me, and says that I influenced them to do anything, it really is a wonderful compliment.
“And whenever I see Glen Matlock I always go up to him and say – This is all your fault!!
“And he always says exactly the same thing to me ……
“He always goes – F*ck Off Hooky!”
Peter Hook & The Light present Joy Division: A Celebration Live at the Big Top, Limerick Milk Market on Thursday November 10. Tickets www.dolans.ie
Live at the Big Top, Limerick Milk Market on Thursday November 10 Photo: Paul Evens
