Heaven 17

The Profile

Formed in Sheffield in 1980 by Martyn Ware and Ian Craig Marsh with Glenn Gregory as vocalist, Heaven 17 are an English synth-pop band known for Penthouse and Pavement and The Luxury Gap.

Formed after Ware and Marsh left the original Human League line-up, the group were central to early-1980s British synth-pop. They are associated with the British Electric Foundation (BEF). Their single "Temptation" (1983) was a commercial hit.

The review of Penthouse and Pavement highlights Heaven 17's fusion of funk rhythms, cutting-edge electronics, and Glenn Gregory's baritone voice. Bowie influences and the BEF concept are noted; the album's first side is praised while the second side is seen as less inspired. Overall a measured, admiring critique with reservations.