Peter Hook

Peter Hook & The Light: A Night of Joy Division and New Order Anthems at O2 Academy Bournemouth

Prepare for an unforgettable evening as legendary bassist, vocalist, and songwriter Peter Hook, alongside his acclaimed band The Light, descends upon Bournemouth’s iconic O2 Academy on Friday, 7 November 2025. This isn’t just another gig; it’s a pilgrimage for fans of seminal post-punk and synth-pop, a chance to witness a true musical architect revisit the defining works of two of the most influential bands in British music history: Joy Division and New Order. This promises to be a night where raw emotion meets pulsating electronic beats, delivering a cathartic and exhilarating experience that will resonate long after the final note fades.

About Peter Hook

Peter Hook is a name synonymous with the groundbreaking sounds that emerged from Manchester in the late 1970s and early 1980s. As a founding member of Joy Division, Hook’s distinctive, melodic, and often driving basslines were a cornerstone of the band’s dark, atmospheric sound. Alongside Ian Curtis’s haunting vocals, Bernard Sumner’s guitar textures, and Stephen Morris’s intricate drumming, Joy Division crafted a legacy that, despite their short existence, continues to inspire. Hits like the intense and brooding “Atmosphere”, the urgent and iconic “Love Will Tear Us Apart”, and the powerful “She’s Lost Control” remain touchstones of alternative music.

Following the tragic death of Ian Curtis, Hook, Sumner, and Morris, along with Gillian Gilbert, formed New Order. This transition saw them embrace synthesizers and dance music, forging a new path that blended their post-punk roots with electronic innovation. New Order became pioneers of the dance-rock fusion, achieving global superstardom with anthems that bridged the gap between the underground and the mainstream. Their catalogue boasts an incredible array of enduring hits, including the euphoric “Blue Monday”, a track that remains the best-selling 12-inch single of all time, the shimmering “Bizarre Love Triangle”, the anthemic “True Faith”, and the dancefloor classic “Temptation”. Hook’s distinctive vocal contributions on tracks like “The Perfect Kiss” and “Touched by the Hand of God” further cemented his multifaceted talent.

Throughout his career, Peter Hook has consistently demonstrated a restless creative spirit, both within these legendary bands and through his subsequent solo projects. His commitment to performing the seminal works of Joy Division and New Order with his band, The Light, is a testament to his dedication to his legacy and his desire to share these timeless songs with new generations of fans. This upcoming performance at the O2 Academy Bournemouth is a rare opportunity to experience these iconic tracks performed with the passion and authenticity only one of the architects himself can deliver.

Venue Information

The O2 Academy Bournemouth, situated in the heart of this vibrant coastal city, is a renowned live music venue with a history of hosting world-class artists. Its intimate yet energetic atmosphere provides the perfect setting for an evening of powerful live music. With a capacity that ensures a lively crowd while maintaining a sense of connection between the artist and the audience, the O2 Academy Bournemouth consistently delivers memorable concert experiences. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a meticulously curated setlist that will transport you through the essential eras of both Joy Division and New Order. Peter Hook & The Light are celebrated for their unwavering dedication to faithfully reproducing the sonic textures and emotional depth of these seminal recordings. You can expect a powerful and passionate performance, delivered with the raw energy that characterized Joy Division and the infectious, electronic pulse that defined New Order’s greatest hits.

The band typically performs in two distinct halves, allowing for a comprehensive journey through Hook’s remarkable discography. The first half is often dedicated to a full performance of a specific Joy Division album, bringing to life the intense atmosphere and lyrical poignancy of their landmark releases. This is followed by a second half that dives deep into the expansive catalogue of New Order, showcasing their evolution into synth-pop pioneers and chart-topping titans.

Expect to hear anthems that have soundtracked countless lives. From the chilling intensity of “Disorder” and “Shadowplay” to the soaring ambition of “Blue Monday” and “Bizarre Love Triangle,” every note will be delivered with precision and heartfelt commitment. Hook’s distinctive vocal style, a blend of gruff passion and melodic insight, will be front and centre, complemented by the tight musicianship of The Light. Their performance style is known for its infectious energy, engaging the audience throughout, creating a shared experience of musical discovery and celebration. While the exact setlist is always a thrilling surprise, the promise of hearing songs like “Ceremony,” “Transmission,” “Age of Consent,” “Regret,” and “Round & Round” performed live is enough to set any music fan’s pulse racing. The show is typically a substantial affair, often running for over two hours, ensuring a comprehensive and deeply satisfying evening of live music.

FAQs

1. Will Peter Hook be singing the lead vocals for all the songs?

Peter Hook will be taking on the lead vocal duties for many of the songs, particularly those where his original vocal contributions were prominent in New Order, such as “The Perfect Kiss” and “Touched by the Hand of God.” For the Joy Division material, while his distinctive basslines are ever-present, the band has a talented vocalist who captures the essence of Ian Curtis’s powerful and emotive delivery, ensuring the integrity and atmosphere of these iconic tracks are maintained with immense respect.

2. How long has Peter Hook been performing these Joy Division and New Order albums live?

Peter Hook began touring extensively with Peter Hook & The Light, performing full Joy Division and New Order albums, in the early 2010s. This began with performances of Unknown Pleasures and Closer, followed by New Order’s Power, Corruption & Lies and Low-Life, among others. This dedicated approach allows fans to experience these seminal works in their entirety, as intended by the artists.

3. Is this a chance to hear lesser-known tracks as well as the hits?

Absolutely. While Peter Hook & The Light are renowned for delivering the crowd-pleasing anthems, their commitment to performing entire albums means that fans will also have the opportunity to hear many of the deeper cuts and album tracks that are cherished by dedicated followers of Joy Division and New Order. This provides a comprehensive and immersive experience of the bands’ artistic output.

4. What is the typical age range of attendees at a Peter Hook & The Light concert?

Concerts by Peter Hook & The Light attract a wonderfully diverse audience. You’ll find long-time fans who grew up with Joy Division and New Order, reliving memories and introducing these incredible bands to younger generations. The appeal of this music transcends age, and the atmosphere is usually a vibrant mix of seasoned music aficionados and enthusiastic newcomers.

5. Will there be merchandise available at the venue?

Yes, it is standard practice for Peter Hook & The Light to have a merchandise stand at their concerts. Attendees can typically expect to find a range of items including band t-shirts, posters, and potentially other exclusive merchandise, allowing fans to take home a memento of the evening.

6. Is there a strict policy on photography and videography during the performance?

Generally, venues like the O2 Academy Bournemouth have a policy that prohibits professional cameras and flash photography for personal use. However, small personal cameras or smartphones are usually permitted for capturing memories. It’s always advisable to check the specific venue’s policy on their website closer to the event date for the most accurate information.