Joy Division is the name of a highly influential English rock band from Salford, near Manchester, active primarily from 1976 to 1980. The group is best known for helping to shape the post-punk sound and for its stark, emotionally intense music. Key points about the band:

• Members: Ian Curtis (vocals and lyrics), Bernard Sumner (guitar and keyboards), Peter Hook (bass), and Stephen Morris (drums). Gillian Gilbert joined later, contributing keyboards and guitar after their name change to New Order. [Joy Division overview]
• Style and influence: They began with punk-inspired energy and evolved into a sparse, haunting sound characterized by Curtis’s introspective lyrics and distinctive vocal delivery. Their work is often cited as foundational to the post-punk genre. [Joy Division overview]
• Notable releases: Debut album Unknown Pleasures (1979) and the follow-up Closer (1980) are landmarks in alternative/indie rock, celebrated for their atmosphere and emotional depth. The single Love Will Tear Us Apart (1980) became one of their best-known tracks. [Joy Division overview]
• Ending and afterlife: Ian Curtis died by suicide in May 1980, just before a planned North American tour; after his death the remaining members formed New Order, which blended rock with danceable electronic influences. [Joy Division overview]

If you’d like, I can tailor this further—summaries of their albums, analysis of their lyrics, or a short guide to recommended listening in chronological order.