What makes State of the Nation by New Order notable?

The album's lead track reached No. 3 on the UK Singles Chart, reinforcing New Order's influence in the synth-pop genre. Its exploration of societal issues resonated amid the political climate of the time, further establishing the band's reputation for blending dance music with deeper lyrical content. Released on August 1, 1986, 'State of the Nation' marked New Order's first single after their commercial peak with 'Blue Monday'. This period saw the band exploring more politically charged themes while solidifying their status in the post-punk and electronic dance music scenes.

How many songs are on State of the Nation?

State of the Nation has 2 tracks, running approximately 7 minutes.

Released 40 years ago

State of the Nation

New Order · 1986

7 min · 2 tracks · new wave

A pulsating blend of synth-pop and new wave, capturing the tension of a divided society through electronic grooves.

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Top tracks — play these first

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State of the Nation (edit) — This track embodies the album's theme with its urgent rhythms and poignant lyrics about national identity, making it a quintessential New Order anthem.
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Shame of the Nation (edit) — This song contrasts upbeat melodies with introspective lyrics, showcasing New Order's ability to tackle complex social themes while maintaining a danceable sound.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong electronic elements and thematic depth, characteristic of New Order's style during this era.

What we noticed

The lead track features a driving electronic beat that maintains a steady tempo throughout its duration, creating an infectious groove.
Both tracks utilize layered synth melodies that build tension, with the second track introducing a more subdued vocal delivery.
The arrangement includes repetitive hooks and rhythmic bass lines that emphasize the song's themes of societal division.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Reinforced New Order's influence post-commercial peak, marking a significant moment in their career.
Themes: national identity crisis· political disillusionment· divided society tension
Career context: Released on August 1, 1986, 'State of the Nation' marked New Order's first single after their commercial peak with 'Blue Monday'. This period saw the band exploring more politically charged themes while solidifying their status in the post-punk and electronic dance music scenes.
Stylistic neighbors: Depeche Mode· Pet Shop Boys· The Cure