‘First Light’ marks the start of an intriguing partnership between Blancmange frontman Neil Arthur and keyboard / synth wizard Benge, who has already racked up an impressive CV with John Foxx and the Maths, Gazelle Twin and Wrangler. The results are invigorating, a collection of modern day electronic music that enjoys its 1980s influences but uses them for something far more meaningful. ‘Check The Power’ is a masterpiece, an edgy piece of paranoia where Arthur insists you return to the home you’ve just left to check the doors are locked and the power off. It nearly had me turning back every morning! ‘Guilt, Doubt and Fear’ is similarly good, while ‘I Prefer Solitude’ celebrates the solo existence and the fact that not everybody needs to be paired off. Benge adds some masterly touches to the production, while Arthur’s vocals continue in the rich vein of form he hit with Blancmange last year. A thought provoking and sonically rewarding piece of work, which bodes well for future collaborations between the pair.
Ben Hogwood
5 out of 5
