On This Day: May 13, 1985 - New Order Released Their Third Album Low Life

On this day May 13, 1985, New Order released their third studio album Low Life, blending post punk roots with electronic innovation to create one of the most influential albums of the decade. The record marked a creative turning point for the band, as they embraced a fuller synth based sound while still retaining the emotional edge that had defined their earlier work.

Low Life reached number 94 on the Billboard charts and became a critical favorite for its moody textures, minimalist production and groundbreaking use of drum machines and sequencers. Tracks like Love Vigilantes, The Perfect Kiss and Subculture showcased the band’s ability to fuse dance music with introspective lyrics and cold wave aesthetics. The album’s stark black and white cover also became a signature of their visual identity during this era.

Though not a major commercial success in the United States at the time, Low Life played a key role in shaping the alternative and electronic scenes that followed, influencing artists across genres for decades.

Fun fact: Low Life was the first New Order album to feature the band members on the cover and marked the beginning of a long running collaboration with graphic designer Peter Saville.