Joy Division, the influential post-punk band, has always been synonymous with their masterpiece album, “Unknown Pleasures.” Now, drummer Stephen Morris and Peter Saville from Factory Records have come together to create a groundbreaking NFT that pays homage to the band’s iconic album. This collaboration, titled CP1919, is set to be unveiled next month through Pace Verso, and it promises to be a digital archive collection that combines the mesmerizing album art with unreleased tracks.
The heart of the CP1919 project lies in the animated rendition of Joy Division’s famed album sleeve. Two distinct monochromatic artworks, named CP1919: Sweeping Sun White 2023 and CP1919: Sweeping Sun Black 2023, take center stage in this collection. The White edition, openly available, offers a fresh experience by showcasing previously unreleased vocal snippets and sounds from Joy Division. On the other hand, the Black edition, a unique piece, enriches the visual artistry with an ambient soundtrack that includes previously unheard vocal fragments from the band. This exclusive edition is physically embodied in a specially designed case housing a hard drive.
This collaboration holds a special treat for Joy Division’s fans. Stephen Morris, driven by his desire to provide a deeper insight into the celebrated album, introduces newly discovered vocal takes from the late Ian Curtis. These unearthed vocal recordings serve as a poignant tribute to Curtis’s artistic contribution and offer fans a rare glimpse into the band’s creative process.
Bill Holding from Morph U.K. played an integral role in transforming the album’s iconic image into a 3D version for the NFT. Meanwhile, Stephen Morris himself crafted the music for this project, drawing inspiration from the radio signals of CP1919 and merging them with altered sounds from the band’s archival material. This unique blend of elements ensures a captivating auditory and visual experience for enthusiasts of both Joy Division and digital art.
Beyond the artistic endeavor, the CP1919 collaboration also aims to make a positive impact. A portion of the revenue generated from the NFT sales will be donated to CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably), a UK-based organization dedicated to suicide prevention. By supporting this cause, Joy Division’s legacy extends beyond the realm of music and into the realm of making a difference in the lives of others.
Joy Division, formed in 1976, emerged as a defining figure in the post-punk and gothic rock scenes. Their dark and reflective lyrics, combined with minimalist instrumentation, captured the hearts of many. In their brief yet impactful journey, they released two studio albums: “Unknown Pleasures” in 1979 and “Closer” in 1980. Tragically, the band faced an abrupt end with Ian Curtis’s suicide in May 1980. However, the remaining members went on to form the band New Order and continued to shape the music industry. Over the years, Joy Division’s influence has remained palpable, with bands like The Cure, U2, and Radiohead citing them as a significant source of inspiration in their own musical journeys.
As the CP1919 collection prepares to step into the limelight next month, it serves as a testament to Joy Division’s enduring legacy in the modern digital era. This collaboration not only revitalizes the band’s impact but also introduces a new generation to the fusion of music and digital artistry. The CP1919 NFT collection bridges the gap between the past and the present, ensuring that the powerful and evocative spirit of Joy Division continues to resonate with music enthusiasts far and wide.
The CP1919 NFT collection is a remarkable endeavor that brings together the artistic brilliance of Joy Division with the possibilities of digital innovation. As fans eagerly await its unveiling, they can anticipate a captivating experience that pays tribute to the band’s groundbreaking album while propelling their legacy forward into the digital era.