New Order’s 1994 compilation, (The Best Of) New Order, brings together key tracks from the British band—songs that defined their signature electronic-rock sound—on a single vinyl record. Released on November 21, 1994, via London Records, it served as the band’s second major compilation, following Substance. The tracklist spans various phases of New Order’s career, ranging from the club-oriented energy of "The Perfect Kiss," "Fine Time," and "Thieves Like Us" to later hits such as "Regret" and "World In Motion."
Of particular interest are the 1994 versions of several tracks: "True Faith ’94," "Bizarre Love Triangle ’94," "1963 ’94," and "Round & Round ’94" all feature updated arrangements. This ensures that the collection functions not merely as an archive of the band’s greatest hits, but as a contemporary reinterpretation of their catalog as it stood in 1994. The release also includes "Blue Monday ’88"—a later iteration of one of the band’s most iconic songs.
Another notable aspect of this release is its chronological scope. It encompasses material from various stages of New Order’s creative journey: "Thieves Like Us" dates back to 1984; "The Perfect Kiss" and "Shellshock" to 1986; "Touched By The Hand Of God" to 1987; "Blue Monday ’88" to 1988; while "Regret" and other tracks represent the early 1990s. In this way, the record provides a coherent look at how the band evolved their unique fusion of post-punk, synth-pop, alternative rock, and dance-oriented electronic music.
The cover features the minimalist aesthetic characteristic of New Order: a white background paired with a simple, abstract blue shape makes the design instantly recognizable. For a collector, this is an appealing piece from the British electronic scene of the 1990s, while for a fan of the band, it offers a convenient way to own a comprehensive selection of iconic tracks on a single double-vinyl set. The Best Of New Order is particularly compelling because it combines time-tested hits, single versions, and updated takes on various tracks, all while preserving the energy and atmosphere of the era.
Tracklist:
- A1 True Faith ’94 - 5:35
- A2 Bizarre Love Triangle ’94 - 3:54
- A3 1963 ’94 - 3:47
- A4 Regret - 4:08
- B1 Fine Time - 3:09
- B2 The Perfect Kiss - 4:48
- B3 Shell Shock - 4:24
- B4 Thieves Like Us - 3:57
- C1 Vanishing Point - 5:17
- C2 Run - 4:30
- C3 Round & Round ’94 - 4:01
- C4 World (Price Of Love) - 3:39
- D1 Ruined In A Day - 4:00
- D2 Touched By The Hand Of God - 3:45
- D3 Blue Monday ’88 - 4:04
- D4 World In Motion - 4:30
