Monday, 15 September 2025

Waves And Then Goodbye

Celebrating Stephen Luscombe, 29th October 1954 to 13th September 2025.

I was very sad to read on Sunday of Stephen's passing after a long illness. Although Stephen had been unable to continue beyond Blancmange's spectacular comeback album Blanc Burn in 2011, he remained a fervent supporter of Neil Arhur's continuing journey with the band they formed in 1979.

And what a legacy, not just as Blancmange, but also as West India Company with Pandit Dinesh and Asha Bhosle. Andrew Weatherall was an early adopter.

There is an informative tribute by Chi Ming Lai over at the Electricity Club blog. I've picked a single/video from each of the four Blancmange albums that Stephen recorded with Neil, in reverse chronological order, ending inevitably with Waves.

1) The Western (2011)
2) What's Your Problem? (1985)
3) That's Love That It Is (1983)
4) Waves (1982)

I've also reactivated links to a two Blancmange compilations that I've previously posted, focusing on their 12" singles and remixes.


Thank you for the music, Stephen, rest easy.

 
 
 

4 comments:

  1. Sad news. I have a theory that some bands never get taken that seriously as most of the public can't get past the perceived 'silly name'. Two bands I'd put in this category are Super Furry Animals and Blancmange. Of all the early electronic 80's bands Blancmange never got the credit that they deserved - RIP Stephen.

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  2. sad to read, and when the old heroes leave, the idea of ​​one's own transience also comes closer. Alex(BTG)

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  3. Missed this departure. Good tribute, K.

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