http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/tracks/05-02-01.shtml
New Order: "Krafty" genre: synth-pop
"Krafty" begins on a decidedly electronic tack, with synthesizer, drum machine, and faux-string presets introducing a reverb-drenched bassline from the inimitable Peter Hook. There's nothing wrong with the verses, they're catchy enough and could potentially build up to something stunning; but the chorus is underwhelming, relying heavily on guitar and live drums for impact. The hooks are laid on pretty thick during the bridge, replete with bell chimes and a loopy synth riff to echo the vocal, which almost salvages this otherwise dull track. I expect those bells and whistles in a pop song, but I can't forgive a "grand return" single that's without a strong melody or any dynamics. "Krafty" is a far cry from New Order's more club-oriented 80s work, kind of a watered-down Republic track that uses electronic elements for color rather than as a foundation. Come to think of it, none of New Order's best songs have such a rigid structure; they usually ebb and flow amorphously like dance tracks do, so maybe that's where "Krafty" falls flat. The ingredients are there: The melody's downright summery, Bernard Sumner's vocals are as light and indifferent as a British man's can be, and Hook's bass anchors it all. This is a tough call to make, because New Order are often at their best when they're impossibly aloof, but there's a fine line between effortless and tuneless, and "Krafty" isn't the former. [Jason Crock]
