Unfurnished Rooms is the new title of the ten-piece record from electronica pioneers Blancmange, making for their ninth studio release and the fith since their reformation back in 2011. Despite being formed back in ’79, Blancmange are still going strong and have proven that their technological sound still holds a very homely place in 2017. They’re still at the forefront of experimental synth music and are showing no signs of stopping anytime soon.

The record begins with the hollowing self-titled ‘Unfurnished Rooms’ and we’re introduced to Neil Arthur’s fantastically sobering vocals. In true Blancmange fashion, the track holds a level of dark eeriness to it and, through a multitude of various layers from keyboardist Stephen Luscombe, Neil’s vocals act as the glue that keeps the piece pulsing along smoothly whilst Stephen’s synthetic intricacies keep the track feeling remarkably fresh. The song is a sublime opening to the record, capturing the theme of finding comfort within the uncomfortable beautifully.

The production behind this album is undoubtedly its very bread and butter, it’s clear that since forming almost four decades ago that Blancmange have learnt more than a few things about production values. With assistance from Benge (co-producer for Wrangler/John Foxx and The Maths etc), the band have managed to create tones which are filled to the brim with new wave creativity whilst simultaneously holding a sense of nostalgia for their older material. The sparks within the wonderfully paradoxical ‘Anna Dine’ and eldritch bubbling effects from ‘Share It Out’ are fantastic to their very core and have managed to transform what could have been a rather dull listen into one of the best electronic records I’ve heard this year.

Ten-piece records sometimes have a tendency to fall short of capturing their fully intended sound, however, Blancmange have managed to incorporate a great deal of variety and diversity within Unfurnished Rooms. The duo have produced a record that you’ll not only be able to relish but, while listening to it over and over again, each time coming out with a new lease of meaning behind each track. This gives the album an immense level of personalisation, as it is clear that Neil is singing about some very large demons he has faced and he's meeting them head on, a very respectful trait for any artist to attempt, let alone execute so well.

A clever album, not only in terms of its message but its sheer level of experimentalism. Neil and Stephen have crafted yet another record which makes you delve into their consciences but also makes you question some of the larger problems and subconscious fears within your own mind. Unfurnished Rooms is definitely a warmly welcomed addition to Blancmange’s discography and, I hope, will not be the last release of new wave experimental music from these electronica legends. When Blancmange visit Brighton at the start of October, I for one cannot wait to see how these tracks transcribe into a live performance as I’m sure it will be a truly otherworldly sound to behold.

Ben Walker

Website: blancmange.co.uk
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