Ceremony by New Order ... how does this song feel so alive?

[endserenading81]

Hello old school peeps,
I love the song "Ceremony" by New Order. Not only because of the notes and it's history .... but it's sound is so full and alive with only 3-4 instruments.
Other songs I recall are so full with so little ..... "Melt With You" by Modern English. "Vacation" the Go Gos. "Dancing with Myself" by Billy Idol.

I am trying to record my next album the same way. I am not into a billion instruments to make a full sound ... just a few, with catchy as hell notes and vocals.

So, is this because of the "genius" of Martin Hannett, or the like? The "genius" of New Order, or the like? Or is it just basic mixing know how?

What are the secrets? Ducking? Automation? Mixing?

R

 

[White Elephant]

Use huge vocal reverb and make sure you place the instruments well in the stereo field. Also, use reverb and delay to subtly move each instrument forward or backward. With lots of sounds in the left, right, middle, front, and back, things will open up. Great song, btw!

 

[White Elephant]

Also, and this one's pretty important, make sure you are an awesome songwriter.