An unexpected second chapter in the Haircut 100 story gathered pace last year when their irresistible first single in forever, ‘The Unloving Plum’, became Radio 2’s Record of the Week.
It was a track which showed the magic that inspired their classic ‘80s hits ‘Favourite Shirts (Boy Meets Girl)’, ‘Love Plus One’, ‘Fantastic Day’ and ‘Nobody’s Fool’.
That comeback has now stepped up a gear with the announcement that their new album Boxing The Compass – their first with Nick Heyward in 44 years – will be released on 20 March, followed by a 2026 tour.
Writing and recording sessions for the new album showed that they still share that special something. Their flair for a classic, melody-rich pop song was firmly intact alongside with a host of fresh influences that they had never had the chance to explore together. And despite the passing of four decades, their boyish charm is still luminous – surely because each member is grateful for having a second chance with their old friends.
What they said
“The singles ‘Favourite Shirt’, ‘Fantastic Day’ and ‘Love Plus One’ remain terrific, youthful, breezy pop songs” – Dave Lawrence, The York Press
“During their first tour in 40 years, Haircut 100 wow Cardiff’s Tramshed with a clean-cut performance that was like they had never left. Lead singer Nick Heyward, looking and sounding likewise, was raring to go” – Billy Edwards, Buzzmag.co.uk
British electronic band Blancmange first formed in the post-punk days of 1979, creating tape loops and experimental sounds with kitchen utensils, before developing into one of the definitive chart-topping British electronic pop acts.
Fusing together an inspiring mix of synthesisers and surrealism, they created groundbreaking singles such as ‘Feel Me’, ‘Living on the Ceiling’, ‘Blind Vision’ and ‘Don't Tell Me’. After a long hiatus lasting more than 25 years, they returned to the studio in 2011 and have shown a passion for change and new styles within their electronic framework ever since, including the critically acclaimed Private View album which was released by London Records in 2022.
Not only has Neil Arthur recorded over a dozen Blancmange albums in the last 14 years, he’s also started new projects which share Blancmange’s flair for experimentation and seamless pop melodies, including a new collaboration with Benge and Vince Clarke (Erasure/Yazoo/Depeche Mode).
What they said
“Listening to Blancmange obsessively. Probably the most under-rated electronic act of all time” – Moby
“The atmosphere at the Blancmange concert was electric as the band delivered a perfect blend of old and new songs” – Scottish Music Network
Hampton Pool Trust, the not-for-profit charity that owns Hampton Pool on behalf of the community, is committed that this local gem continues to thrive.
With a major refurbishment project now underway, your continuing support will help ensure this. See more information about the Hampton Pool development plans here and you can further support our plans through the Hampton Pool Trust Just Giving fundraising page here.
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