Heaven 17

Heaven 17 Live at Bexhill De La Warr Pavilion

Prepare for an unforgettable night as the legendary synth-pop pioneers, Heaven 17, descend upon the iconic Bexhill De La Warr Pavilion. This is more than just a concert; it’s a journey through the electrifying soundscape of the 1980s, delivered by a band whose influence resonates through generations of electronic music. Witness firsthand the innovative spirit and enduring power of Heaven 17 as they grace the stunning setting of one of Britain’s most architecturally significant buildings.

About Heaven 17

Heaven 17 emerged from the ashes of the influential Human League in 1981, forged by the creative force of Martyn Ware and Ian Craig Marsh. Joined by the charismatic vocals of Glenn Gregory, they quickly established themselves as a formidable presence in the burgeoning synth-pop scene. Their debut album, Penthouse and Pavement, released in 1981, was a groundbreaking work, blending sharp social commentary with infectious, electronically driven melodies. It spawned hits like “Temptation,” a powerful duet featuring Carol Kenyon, and the biting “Geసుకోవist” (often misremembered as “Geసుకోవist”).

The band continued to refine their distinctive sound throughout the 1980s with albums like The Luxury Gap (1983), which delivered their most enduring commercial success, including the global smash hit “Temptation” and the anthemic “Come Live With Me.” Their later work, including How Men Are (1984) and Boom Meets Bust (1988), explored more mature themes and pushed the boundaries of electronic music production, solidifying their reputation as artists who consistently evolved. Heaven 17’s music is characterised by its sophisticated arrangements, Ware’s innovative production techniques, and Gregory’s distinctive vocal delivery, all underpinned by thought-provoking lyrical content that remains remarkably relevant. Their live performances are renowned for their energy, precision, and the band’s ability to connect with their audience, making each show a truly immersive experience.

Venue Information

The De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill is a Grade I listed building, an international exemplar of Art Deco architecture and a cherished cultural hub on the East Sussex coast. Opened in 1935, it was designed as a “modern temple of beauty and social recreation.” Its unique design, with sweeping curves, expansive glass facades, and stunning sea views, provides an unparalleled backdrop for live music. The Pavilion boasts a range of spaces, including the beautiful Ballroom, which will host this special performance, offering excellent acoustics and an intimate atmosphere. For complete venue details, including accessibility information, directions, and parking, please see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Attendees can anticipate a career-spanning performance that delves deep into Heaven 17’s rich musical catalogue. The setlist is expected to be a masterful blend of their most beloved hits, ensuring that classics like “Temptation,” “Come Live With Me,” and “Geసుకోవist” will undoubtedly be performed with electrifying energy. Beyond the chart-topping singles, the band is also known for revisiting deeper cuts and fan favourites, offering a comprehensive sonic journey for long-time admirers.

Heaven 17’s live performances are celebrated for their meticulous attention to detail and their unwavering commitment to sonic excellence. Martyn Ware and Ian Craig Marsh, the architects of their signature sound, are known for their precise electronic arrangements, bringing the intricate textures and driving rhythms of their studio recordings to life with formidable skill. Glenn Gregory remains a captivating frontman, his distinctive voice cutting through the synthesised soundscapes with a power and charisma that has only deepened with age. The performance style is one of intelligent, sophisticated electronic pop delivered with a genuine passion that resonates throughout the venue. Expect a show that is both sonically immersive and emotionally engaging, a true testament to the enduring appeal of their music. While specific set times are subject to change, a typical Heaven 17 performance lasts approximately 90 to 120 minutes, with the possibility of an encore. The evening promises to be a celebration of iconic music, expertly delivered in a truly magnificent setting.

FAQs

Q1: Will Glenn Gregory, Martyn Ware, and Ian Craig Marsh all be performing?

Absolutely. The core creative trio of Heaven 17 – Glenn Gregory (vocals), Martyn Ware (keyboards/synthesizers), and Ian Craig Marsh (keyboards/synthesizers) – will be at the heart of this performance. Their chemistry and musical synergy are what define Heaven 17, and they are known for delivering powerful and cohesive live shows.

Q2: Can I expect to hear hits like “Temptation” and “Come Live With Me”?

You can certainly expect those iconic tracks to feature prominently in the setlist. “Temptation” and “Come Live With Me” are cornerstones of Heaven 17’s live shows and are always met with an enthusiastic reception from the audience. The band understands the importance of these fan-favourite anthems.

Q3: Is Heaven 17 known for playing new material live, or is it primarily a greatest hits show?

While Heaven 17 are certainly known for their extensive back catalogue, they are also a band that continues to create and evolve. It’s possible they may weave in some newer material or reinterpretations of their classic tracks into the setlist, adding an element of surprise to the performance. However, the focus will undoubtedly be on celebrating their most beloved and influential work.

Q4: How would you describe Heaven 17’s live performance style? Is it energetic or more laid-back?

Heaven 17’s live performances are best described as sophisticated and energetic. While their music often has a danceable quality, there’s also an intellectual depth and a carefully crafted sonic palette. Glenn Gregory is a dynamic frontman, and the band delivers their intricate electronic arrangements with precision and passion, creating an immersive and engaging experience for the audience.

Q5: What is the typical duration of a Heaven 17 concert?

A typical Heaven 17 concert usually runs for approximately 90 to 120 minutes, not including any potential encore. This allows them ample time to showcase a comprehensive range of their hits and fan-favourite tracks, ensuring a full and satisfying evening of music.

Q6: Are there any special arrangements or guest artists typically featured in Heaven 17’s live shows?

Heaven 17 are renowned for their tight, self-contained unit, often featuring talented session musicians to complement their core trio. While they have collaborated with guest vocalists on their studio recordings, such as Carol Kenyon on the iconic “Temptation,” live performances typically focus on the strength of Gregory, Ware, and Marsh’s musicianship. Any special guest appearances would likely be announced in advance, but the core performance is centred around the band themselves.