In the aftermath of 1993' 'Republic' New Order seemed to have finally lost their innovative streak; it had a few highlights but it truly lacked the unique qualities which made the group so great. 8 years later another 'comeback' album arrives with the three male protagonists delivering a new set of tracks full to the brim with ideas and rediscovered energy. Opener 'Crystal' and the following '60 Miles An Hour' reveal a harder guitar-based sound; a formula built on still further on mid-album workouts such as 'Primitive Notion' and 'Slow Jam'. Keyboards return on 'Vicious Streak' and 'Someone Like You' but there is still an underlying tension and sense of urgency underneath it all. In fact all the essential elements are in place which means that Peter Hook's bass still resonates like no other and Bernard Sumner's emotionally charged voice of youth is still in full working order even in its mid forties. The guest appearances are of variable quality; the Primal Scream collaboration on 'Rock The Shack' is forgettable but Billy Corgan (whose later work with the Smashing Pumpkins demonstrated a working knowledge of New Order's material) assists in making 'Turn My Way' one of the best songs on 'Get Ready'. This is the sound of a band still setting high-quality standards in rock music and long may it continue.