Blancmange formed in London in 1979 behind vocalist Neil Arthur and instrumentalist Stephen Luscombe. On their way to becoming a classic synth-pop duo, they would take a more exotic approach to the music than others in the electropop field. Besides often creating eccentric dance rhythms and a comforting atmosphere, Blancmange would sometimes fuse synth with eastern influences as part of their music.
The band would create three studio albums in the early to mid-80’s before breaking up in 1986. The band would return in the 2000’s with a fourth album in 2011. However, Stephen Luscombe had to step away soon after due to health issues leaving Arthur to continue under the Blancmange name.
Just last month, Stephen Luscombe passed away at the age of 70.
This episode tell the story of how Luscombe and Arthur created the band, their music of the 80's, and the years the followed.
What is Inside the Milky Way - A Look at Early Alternative Music?
A podcast that takes a look at the development of alternative music in the 80's with a focus on post-punk, electronic, dark wave, goth, synth, industrial, and indie genres. The podcast episodes feature stories, background, and discussions of artists, contributors, music, themes, and events of the early alternative era.
The title of our podcast is based on the alternative song from 1988 by The Church, "Under the Milky Way".