THE ROUTES Reimagine Joy Division Classics on New Album Surfin’ Pleasures
The unstoppable surf-rock innovators The Routes return with their latest release, Surfin’ Pleasures, out on November 8th via Topsy-Turvy Records. Known for their "beat-you-to-death surf music" (as described by Iggy Pop), the band takes a bold new direction by reimagining the iconic music of Joy Division.
Following their successful surf interpretations of Kraftwerk and Buzzcocks, Surfin’ Pleasures is not a typical tribute album. Instead of straightforward cover versions, The Routes have carefully deconstructed 12 of Joy Division’s classic tracks—drawing subtle inspiration from the original melodies and rhythms to craft something wholly unique. The result? A head-spinning collection of 60s surf guitar instrumentals that pay homage to the post-punk legends while transforming their songs into a sonic wave of reverb-drenched, retro surf rock.
Fans can expect beloved Joy Division tracks like "A Means to an End" and "Ice Age" to get a full-on 60s drag race soundtrack treatment, while "Transmission" channels The Astronauts’ timeless sound, and "Digital" morphs into a beach party anthem. Whether you’re a surf rock aficionado or a die-hard Joy Division fan, Surfin’ Pleasures offers something fresh and exciting for all music lovers.
The album cover is a standout in itself, featuring a reimagined design from British design icons Peter Saville and Malcolm Garrett. A playful take on Saville’s iconic Unknown Pleasures artwork, the pulsar lines are reworked into the sound wave of a reverb tank, echoing the album’s retro surf vibe with a nod to Bridget Riley-inspired op art.
Is this project blasphemy or musical alchemy? You decide. One thing is certain—The Routes have delivered another future cult classic that will either delight or disturb for years to come.