Summary

Step into the 1980s groove with Heaven 17’s iconic vinyl record, “Temptation.” Released in 1982 and cataloged under Virgin VS 570, this record encapsulates the era’s eclectic mix of new wave and synth-pop. Heaven 17, a band birthed from the synth-heavy landscape of Sheffield, England, delivered an album that captures both the exuberance and angst of the early ’80s. “Temptation” isn’t just a musical collection; it’s a cultural snapshot, an infectious blend of rhythm, social commentary, and artistic innovation.

About the Artist

Heaven 17 was formed in 1980 by Martyn Ware and Ian Craig Marsh, who were former members of The Human League, along with vocalist Glenn Gregory. Their departure from The Human League was marked by a desire to experiment with electronic sounds and socially conscious lyrics, setting the stage for multiple groundbreaking releases. The band’s influences range from Kraftwerk’s mechanized beats to the soulfulness of Roxy Music, creating a distinct identity in the new wave scene. By the time “Temptation” was released in 1982, Heaven 17 had already charted new territory with their debut album “Penthouse and Pavement,” and they were well on their way to redefining the sound of the decade.

About the Record

“Temptation” stands as a testament to the creative genius of Heaven 17. By blending synth-pop with a deep dive into themes of desire, ambition, and societal change, the album marked a pivotal shift in their sound. Unlike their debut, which balanced between the corporate and the rebellious, “Temptation” focuses more on the layered complexity of human emotion. This record showcases the band’s evolution, with tracks that tell compelling stories through catchy hooks and melodies innovatively crafted with the era’s cutting-edge technology. This is a 7″ inches, RPM single, stereo.

About the Cover

The cover is a generic one.

About the Lyrics & Music

Diving into the music, “Temptation” features a blend of up-tempo tracks and introspective ballads, maintaining a delicate balance between driving beats and lyrical depth. The standout track, aptly titled “Temptation,” is an alluring mix of lush orchestration and Gregory’s compelling vocals. The music is characterized by its polished production and innovative use of analog synthesizers, a hallmark of the track’s distinctive sound.

Conclusion

Heaven 17’s “Temptation” is a vinyl record that’s both timeless and timely, resonating across generations with its unique blend of style and substance. It not only captures the spirit of the 1980s but also holds relevance with its unerring exploration of human experience. Whether you’re an enthusiast of the era or new to the genre, this record offers a vibrant listening experience filled with mood and melody.

Other Recommendations

If “Temptation” leaves you yearning for more, consider delving into Heaven 17’s earlier work with “Penthouse and Pavement,” or explore the soundscape of contemporaries like The Human League’s “Dare” and Ultravox’s “Vienna.” Each record holds its unique place in music history, complementing the innovation and influence found in “Temptation.”