Sumner: '80s revival is weird for me'

Bernard Sumner has admitted to having mixed feelings about the popularity of 1980s-influenced music.

The former Joy Division and New Order star told The Quietus that he is aware of bands like Delphic, whose debut album Acolyte has been accused of ripping off his former bands' sound and style.

Sumner said: "I've actually met them, they're very nice boys. But I don't know. When we started out, in Joy Division, we were influenced by a lot of stuff. I don't think any young musician starts at year zero.

"We used to listen to Iggy Pop, The Velvet Underground, MC5, Love, Led Zeppelin, even Santana! I don't think anyone should be shot down for having influences, really."

He added: "But this '80s revival is bit weird for me, because if I was to do a track that sounded like it was from that time, I'd get crucified!

"Maybe music's gone as far forward as it possibly can, so you have to start looking back, I'm not sure."

Sumner currently records and peforms with Phil Cunningham and Jake Evans as Bad Lieutenant.