Monaco

by Michael SuttonWhen New Order went on hiatus after 1993s Republic, bassist Peter Hook took the groups sound and spirit with him. After his previous side project Revenge was shredded by critics and snubbed by record buyers, Hook returned to the New Order formula — one he helped shape — when he collaborated with David Potts (guitar, vocals) as Monaco in 1996. Potts was originally hired by Hook to be the tape operator of his studio in 1989; three years later, Hook asked him to contribute riffs to Revenges Gun World Porn EP. Playing his bass with the brooding intensity that characterized his work with Joy Division and New Order, Hook no longer distanced himself from his past on Monacos 1997 debut album Music for Pleasure. The critically acclaimed LP unabashedly resembled a New Order record. Hooks distinctive pulsating bass lines united New Orders marriage of post-punk and pop, creating an identity so recognizable that Monacos first single, What Do You Want From Me?, was often mistaken for a New Order track. Even Potts voice recalled the chilly detachment of New Order frontman Bernard Sumner. What Do You Want From Me? was a minor hit on alternative stations and Music for Pleasure sold more than 500,000 copies. Since New Orders future remained uncertain, Monaco filled the dance-rock void created by the pioneering bands absence. Although Music for Pleasure didnt revolutionize music, its songs were catchier and more moving than many had predicted, and the albums success had the press speculating if Monaco was going to be a permanent group. However, despite Music for Pleasures surprising popularity, Monaco were dropped by Polydor Records because the band wasnt commercial enough. The label rejected the groups self-titled follow-up, and it was distributed by Papillon instead in 2000. After Monaco split up in the late 90s, Hook reunited with New Order, releasing Get Ready in 2001.