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Review: Heaven 17's 1981 classic Penthouse and Pavement has been remastered at half speed for an even more fulsome listening experience. It blends synth-pop with socio-political commentary and effortlessly captures the essence of the early '80s sound. The album juxtaposes corporate greed and working-class struggles, with tracks like 'We Don't Need This Fascist Groove Thang' addressing political themes through catchy, danceable beats. Comprised of former Human League members Martyn Ware and Ian Craig Marsh, along with Glenn Gregory, Heaven 17 crafted a distinctive sound characterised by lush synthesisers and sharp lyrics. Penthouse and Pavement therefore remains a seminal work, reflecting the era's tensions and innovations while maintaining a timeless appeal.

Review: A pivotal moment in the band's career. The album opens with 'Crushed by the Wheels of Industry,' a mix of industrial sounds and soulful vocals that sets the tone for the record's unique blend of artistry and social commentary. Tracks like 'Let Me Go' and 'Temptation' showcase the band's ability to craft catchy, poignant songs that transcend time, while 'Come Live with Me' stands out as a highlight, with memorable lyrics and infectious melodies. The album's closing track, 'The Best Kept Secret,' provides a fitting conclusion, echoing themes from earlier tracks and leaving a lasting impression. Overall, The Luxury Gap is a strong album for fans of 80s synth-pop. The reissue, with its half-speed mastering process, offers optimal fidelity and a chance to rediscover this classic album.

Review: First released in October 1983, a stunning debut that shows Heyward's songwriting finesse and pop sensibility post-Haircut 100. Produced by the legendary Geoff Emerick, the album merges bright melodies with sophisticated arrangements, resulting in a collection of timeless tracks that solidified Heyward as a solo force. Featuring hits like 'Take That Situation', 'Whistle Down the Wind', 'Blue Hat for a Blue Day' and 'On a Sunday', the album exudes charm and emotional depth. Heyward's knack for combining upbeat rhythms with introspective lyrics shines throughout, creating a balance of warmth and wistfulness that resonates decades later. This new edition, mastered by Barry Grint at AIR Mastering, benefits from the precision of half-speed mastering. The process enhances groove detail and stereo imaging, bringing a natural clarity and vibrancy to every note. Pressed on 180-gram heavyweight vinyl, the reissue is presented in its original gatefold sleeve, complete with an obi strip, a poly-lined inner sleeve and a two-page insert. North of a Miracle is more than a nostalgic revisitithis beautifully remastered edition breathes new life into a classic.