Marc Almond has reflected on the bittersweet release of Soft Cell’s forthcoming album Danceteria, revealing that he and late bandmate Dave Ball had finished approving the record just two days before Ball’s death.
Speaking on The Chris Moyles Show on Radio X, Almond recalled the moment he and Ball listened through the completed album together and agreed they were both happy with the finished work.
“We just listened to the album through and we just finished it, and ticked it off and said we were both really happy with it. Two days later, somebody came into the room and said, ‘I’ve got some really bad news for you, Dave has passed away.’”
Soft Cell completed danceteria before Dave Ball’s death
Almond described the timing of Ball’s death as both heartbreaking and strangely fitting, given that the pair had just completed a record they were proud of.
“That was literally two days after we’d ticked off the album and said we were really happy with it. I thought this timing, you’ve left me holding the baby, thanks very much!”
The comment reflected the affection and humour that remained part of Almond’s relationship with Ball, even as the singer acknowledged the sadness surrounding the album’s release.
For Almond, the fact that both musicians had heard and approved the finished record provides some comfort.
Marc Almond and Dave Ball reconnected during the album
Almond also explained that working on Danceteria brought the two Soft Cell members into closer contact during Ball’s final months.
“I think the great thing is towards the end, Dave and I had more contact with each other than we had for quite a while.”
Ball had experienced serious health problems in recent years, including a broken back that left him using a motorised chair. Despite those difficulties, Almond said his bandmate remained committed to making music and performing.
Ball was reportedly in good spirits as the album was completed and had been enthusiastic about the possibility of playing upcoming shows with Almond.
Danceteria becomes part of Soft Cell’s legacy
Soft Cell emerged from the UK post-punk and electronic music scene in the late 1970s and became one of the most influential synth-pop acts of the early 1980s.
The duo’s breakthrough came with “Tainted Love”, which became an international hit and remains their signature song.
Danceteria now carries an added significance for fans as a record completed by Almond and Ball shortly before Ball’s death.
The album’s release will allow listeners to hear the pair’s final completed work together, while Almond’s memories of the recording process offer a glimpse into their relationship during Ball’s final period of creativity.
Where to hear Marc Almond’s interview
Almond discussed Danceteria during an appearance on The Chris Moyles Show, which airs on Radio X from 06:30 to 10:00 on weekdays and 08:00 to 11:00 on Saturdays.
The interview is also available through Radio X’s digital channels and YouTube.
