Private View by Blancmange

Neil Arthur and Stephen Luscombe started experimenting with tape loops and kitchen utensils, before discovering electronics and developing into one of the definitive chart-topping British electronic pop acts of the 1980s.

Since reforming in 2011 (Luscombe left shortly after for health reasons) Arthur has harnessed a duality of experimentation and seamless pop melody to release a staggering 10 albums in the last decade. “I don't know whether I'm on a roll but I feel something in me has been released,” he says.

Private View captures an artist who is potently in the moment while also being able to draw on 40 years’ worth of knowledge, experience and built-in intuition. “I'm really lucky to be able to make music completely on my own terms,” Arthur says. “Within myself, there are no limits, there’s a massive palette inside and I will try anything.

Private View is set for release on London Records almost exactly 40 years to the day since they released their debut, Happy Families. This neat, full circle is also reflected in the album itself, being the perfect crystallisation of four decades of Arthur’s creativity.

blancmange.co.uk