Heaven 17

The Profile

Heaven 17 are an English synth-pop group formed in Sheffield in 1980 by Martyn Ware and Ian Craig Marsh after leaving The Human League, with Glenn Gregory on lead vocals. Known for sleek electronic production and funk influences, they scored major UK hits including Temptation (1983), Let Me Go, and Come Live With Me, and released influential albums such as Penthouse and Pavement and The Luxury Gap.

Associated with the British Electric Foundation (BEF); name inspired by A Clockwork Orange; core members: Martyn Ware, Ian Craig Marsh, Glenn Gregory; notable UK hit Temptation reached No. 2 in 1983.

A single review digs into Heaven 17’s debut Penthouse and Pavement, framing it against Fripp/Eno’s ideas, the BEF concept, and post–Human League history. It praises the album’s white‑hot funk rhythms, cutting‑edge electronics, and Glenn Gregory’s controlled baritone, while noting a more reflective, less inspired side B with a highlight in The Height of the Fighting. Influences like Bowie and socio‑political themes are stressed. Overall tone: informed and moderately enthusiastic.