Visage Members, Gear & Sound

Visage was a pioneering English band central to the New Romantic movement, blending elements of New Wave, Synthpop, and New Romantic styles. Formed in 1978 in London, the group emerged from the influential Blitz club scene. The core lineup included Steve Strange (vocals), Midge Ure (guitar, keyboards), Rusty Egan (drums), Billy Currie (keyboards), and John McGeoch (guitar), with contributions from various members of notable bands like Ultravox and Magazine. Visage became iconic for their sleek and innovative use of synthesizers, producing hits like "Fade to Grey," which became a staple of early synthpop and club music.

Visage's sound is a futuristic blend of lush synthesizer textures and driving electronic rhythms, characterized by crisp, melodic synth lines and a pulsating rhythmic backbone. Their music often features the expressive use of synthesizers like the E-Mu Emulator II, which provided a rich palette of sounds that defined their style. The rhythm section, powered by the iconic Roland TR-808 Rhythm Composer, offers a precise and punchy foundation that complements the atmospheric layers. Visage's guitar work, notably from John McGeoch, incorporates elements of flanger and chorus effects—as seen with his use of the MXR M117R Flanger—to add depth and dimension to their soundscapes. This combination of synth-driven melodies and intricate textural layers creates a distinct auditory experience that is both dreamy and dynamic, capturing the essence of the New Romantic era.