Atmosphere

Joy Division

Is this the most New Order sounding Joy Division song? That’s still Ian’s unmistakable voice though. Originally a B-side released after Ian Curtis took his own life…this gorgeous, haunting track feels profound this morning. Somehow the light in this song eclipses the dark shadow cast by suicide.

Don’t walk away in silence.

A very good friend of mine just took his life over the holidays. I am so sad we lost touch. 💔 RIP Brad. I love you and I think about you often. You introduced me to a lot of music back in the day. I wish you were still here.

ATMOSPHERE was re-released as a single in 1988 with this music video that portrait photographer Anton Corbijn directed. Shrouded figures carrying around portraits of Ian and the rest of the band.

Walk in silence
Don't walk away, in silence
See the danger
Always danger
Endless talking
Life rebuilding
Don't walk away
Walk in silence
Don't turn away, in silence
Your confusion
My illusion
Worn like a mask of self-hate
Confronts and then dies
Don't walk away
People like you find it easy
Naked to see
Walking on air
Hunting by the rivers
Through the streets
Every corner abandoned too soon
Set down with due care
Don't walk away, in silence
Don't walk away