Music Complete cover

Music Complete

New Order · 2015

64 min · 11 tracks · new wave

A vibrant fusion of electronic textures and melodic hooks that channels both nostalgia and modernity in equal measure.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Restless Start here — The album opener sets the stage with a pulsing beat and introspective lyrics that reflect themes of longing and uncertainty, showcasing New Order's signature blend of dance and emotion.
  • →
    People on the High Line — This track captures the essence of urban life with its infectious groove and reflective lyrics about connection and community, embodying the band's ability to merge social commentary with catchy melodies.
  • →
    Superheated — Featuring guest vocals from Brandon Flowers of The Killers, this track combines an energetic rhythm with lyrical content that explores themes of love and desire, making it a standout collaboration that bridges generational gaps.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

63 /100
Treeline
Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album blends electronic textures with melodic hooks, maintaining energy while exploring varied tempos.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a driving beat in 'Restless', establishing an energetic tone that persists through the first half.
  • Several tracks feature layered synths and vocal harmonies, creating a rich texture that evolves throughout the record.
  • The last three tracks slow down the tempo, allowing for a reflective conclusion that contrasts with the earlier energy.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • gradual build to emotional climax
  • nostalgic dance floor vibes
  • late-night reflective energy
  • poignant lyrics with vibrant textures

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek standalone singles only

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Revitalized New Order's sound and affirmed their influence in electronic music.
Themes
nostalgic dance floors· post-hiatus creativity
Career context
Released on January 1, 2015, Music Complete is New Order's first studio album in a decade, following the 2005 release Waiting for the Sirens' Call. The album arrives during a period of renewed creative energy for the band, marked by their return to the studio as a quartet after years of lineup changes and hiatus.
Stylistic neighbors
Depeche Mode· Pet Shop Boys· The Cure

Tracklist

  • 1 Restless Start here 5:28
  • 2 Singularity 5:37
  • 3 Plastic 6:55
  • 4 Tutti Frutti 6:22
  • 5 People on the High Line 5:41
  • 6 Stray Dog 6:17
  • 7 Academic 5:54
  • 8 Nothing but a Fool 7:43
  • 9 Unlearn This Hatred 4:19
  • 10 The Game 5:06
  • 11 Superheated 5:04

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata