SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: BLANCMANGE – PRIVATE VIEW

Blancmange
Private View
London Records

Over 40 years ago Neil Arthur and Stephen Luscombe came together to form Blancmange and released their debut album Happy Families of London Records. In 1985, after three albums, the duo split and reunited in 2011. Sadly, Luscombe had to leave the band due to health issues, but Neil Arthur continued on, and in 2022 he has just released Private View, the first Blancmange album on London Records since 1985’s Believe You Me. Private View is also, quite possibly, the best Blancmange album. This is an album full of incredible music and lyrics.

In 2021, Blancmange released the wonderful Commercial Break, and it seemed that Arthur rediscovered the guitar. Blancmange has always utilized guitar in its electronic sound, but since Commercial Break, Arthur has not been afraid to bring the guitar front and centre. David Rhodes has worked with Arthur since their debut album, and on Private View, he is let loose. For example, it is hard to believe that “Some Times These” is Blancmange. Rhodes brings the song in with strong guitar, while Arthur comes in with his vocals. The combination is stellar.

Whereas Commercial Break saw Arthur reflecting on the past, this album focuses on the here and now and plans for future. It is not a depressing album, but it is an album full of personal and interpersonal problems. Musically, the keyboards and guitars set the appropriate mood. From the opening song, “What’s Your Name”, with its  mellow keyboards, until the last piano note of the album, Arthur and company utilize sound uniquely. But with every track, do not get too comfortable, because there are surprises everywhere. Even with “What’s Your Name”, the guitars come in and turn the song sideways.

The album ends with the exquisite “Take Me”. Beautiful piano, keyboards and guitar combine to make one of the best melodies Arthur has ever written. The song is heartbreaking but also a song of survival and strength. Or rather, provides a warning about relationships. It is a remarkable achievement. The sparse music, simple, yet plaintive lyrics. It is the perfect end to the album.

Overall, this is a brilliant album. It is a crowning achievement in a 40-year career. With each album, Arthur gets better and better. Private View is not a confessional album, but rather an album from an artist who knows how to use his art and talent to tell his stories  and explore not only his own emotions, but also the impact of the world around him.

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