album · September 1, 1981

Penthouse and Pavement

Heaven 17

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synth-popnew waveelectronic

The debut album from Heaven 17, 'Penthouse and Pavement' is a sharp, satirical commentary on class and consumerism, delivered with immaculate synth-pop precision. The album's dual nature, with side A representing the 'penthouse' and side B the 'pavement,' showcases a conceptual ambition rarely seen in the genre.

• The album was produced by Richard Mainwaring and Heaven 17, with additional production by M.J. Ware.
• The album reached number 42 on the UK Albums Chart in October 1981.
• The track "(We Don't Need That) Fascist Groove Thang" was banned by the BBC due to its political content.

Heaven 17 was formed in Sheffield, England, by Martyn Ware and Ian Craig Marsh after they departed The Human League. The band's initial work explored a more experimental electronic sound before coalescing into the sophisticated synth-pop of their early releases.