It’s been 30 years since British band Heavenly released their last single, the ultra catchy “Space Manatee”. The band originally dissolved after the suicide of drummer Mathew Fletcher. After playing reunion shows a few years ago, the band recorded their fifth album, Highway To Heavenly. The sound is immediately familiar: jangly guitars, keyboard grooves and Amelia Fletcher’s vocals.
Quick out of the gate is the keyboard ska of “Scene Stealing” and first single, “Portland Town”. The sugar energy rush of “Skep Wax” and “Excuse Me” are a blast of cotton candy air, the latter could easily have been on their 90s albums. “A Different Beat” sounds like two songs mashed together, “The Neverseen” a more mature take on the sound, and album closer “That Last Day” speaks to the tragedy of Mathew. With the signature sound intact, having Heavenly back making music is a big win for the indie pop crowd in 2026.
7.5/10
The Light Appears 