The world of electronic music is in mourning following the announcement that Stephen Luscombe, the pioneering keyboardist and co-founder of the iconic 1980s band Blancmange, has passed away at the age of 68 after a long illness.
Luscombe, alongside vocalist Neil Arthur, formed one of the most distinctive and inventive acts of the post-punk electronic era. Together, they crafted a unique sound that blended synthetic textures with global music influences, leaving an indelible mark on the decade's soundscape.
Defining the Sound of an Era
Blancmange burst onto the scene with their seminal 1982 debut album, 'Happy Families'. The record spawned a series of unforgettable hit singles that have since become synonymous with the era. Tracks like the hypnotic 'Living on the Ceiling', with its iconic sitar riff, and the melancholy 'Waves', showcased the duo's exceptional talent for weaving experimental electronic sounds with accessible pop melodies.
Their innovative approach continued with subsequent albums 'Mange Tout' (1984) and 'Believe You Me' (1985), cementing their status as crucial architects of British synth-pop. Their music was not just popular; it was profoundly influential, demonstrating the vast emotional and commercial potential of electronic instrumentation.
A Lasting Legacy and Influence
After the duo initially parted ways in 1986, Luscombe's passion for music never waned. He pursued a successful career in film and television composition, scoring for the BBC and Channel 4, and continued to explore his deep interest in world music.
The band's reunion in 2011 was met with widespread acclaim from both original fans and a new generation of listeners discovering their work. This triumphant return led to a prolific period of creativity, resulting in several new albums that proved the duo's artistic vision was as sharp and relevant as ever.
Stephen Luscombe's legacy is that of a true sonic innovator. His work with Blancmange helped to shape the sound of modern pop music, proving that electronic music could be both intellectually stimulating and immensely popular. He is survived by his partner, the artist Béatrice Moreau-Jacob, and his brother Philip.
