"Blanc Burn" is the fourth studio album by British synth-pop band Blancmange. This album was released on 7 March 2011, marking the band's return to original, new music after a gap of 26 years, with the previous album "Believe You Me" released way back in 1985. The intervening years saw the band members, Neil Arthur and Stephen Luscombe, pursue their solo careers until they decided to reunite and bring Blancmange back to life.
The album showcases the band's unique mix of synthpop and New Wave, with familiar electro sounds blended with thought-provoking, introspective lyrics. It still carries their signature style that their fans knew and loved but also shows an evident evolution of their music. The "Blanc Burn" album generally received positive reviews from critics, who praised its contemplative lyrics and innovative sounds.
Apart from the band's typical synth-pop style, the album also incorporates several other genres, like world music and experimental music, thus expanding the band's sound and keeping up with the developments in the music scene since their hiatus. Their comeback is marked by Neil Arthur's distinct vocals and evocative lyrics, along with a contemporary production style.
One of the most notable tracks in this album includes "Drive Me," which was chosen to be the lead single from "Blanc Burn". It stands out significantly as a highly energetic electronic track, while other songs, like "The Western" and "Radio Therapy," are more melancholic and reflective in their approach.
This album shows a matured and evolved Blancmange, bringing them back into the music scene with a stronger and more expressive sound. "Blanc Burn" is the band's affirmation that they are back, ready to continue their music journey and explore new dimensions of their musical capability.