Following the release of their 20th studio album, Erasure members Andy Bell and Vince Clarke have opened up about the challenges of the past few years, the depth of their four-decade friendship, and Clarke’s recent decision to end his touring career.
During a video conversation from his home in San Diego, Clarke remained notably reserved compared to his bandmate. When pressed by Bell, he explained that his silence stemmed from simply enjoying the opportunity to listen. “I just love listening to you, man. I’m really enjoying this,” Clarke said with a smile.
Bell, conversely, covered a wide array of topics, starting with his life on a Mallorca farm shared with his husband, Stephen Moss. He described a successful harvest season that yielded pomegranates, kiwis, and lemons. The conversation also touched on Bell’s fascination with clown makeup as a method for avoiding facial recognition technology, nostalgic memories of the unregulated nightlife of the 1990s, and his self-deprecating concern that he is becoming “a fussy old grandpa.”
Beyond lighthearted anecdotes, the pair addressed the heavier themes underlying their latest work, including how their bond has helped them survive recent periods of grief. They also discussed their longstanding commitment to synthpop, embracing their status as “happily uncool” artists while confronting a resurgence of homophobia in contemporary culture.
The bond between these two is rare. Sad they had to navigate grief together, but glad they made it.
Are they really ‘uncool’ though? Their fanbase is massive. This feels like playful humility to me.
I’m just surprised Vince finally stopped touring. I always assumed he’d never retire from the road completely.
Clown makeup to avoid facial recognition? Andy Bell is truly one of a kind. Genius and chaos combined.
Forty years is an incredible run. Love seeing them enjoy each other’s company so much.