Released in 1989, Heart Like A Sky is Spandau Ballet’s sixth studio album; a record that is an often-overlooked gem that encapsulates the band's sophisticated pop and new wave sound. Delivering a mix of introspective lyrics and a highly polished production, Heart Like A Sky showcases that even though it was to be the band’s final studio release, of completely original material, it’s amongst their best recordings with a song selection that plays akin to a greatest hits release. Granted, the album failed to set the charts on fire, but success at the cash register is often a poor indicator of quality.

Speaking of quality, the album artwork is exquisite and while released during the era when the vinyl record was declining in popularity, this is one album deserving of a reissue on the larger vinyl format. Interestingly, the reissue label, Music On CD (the CD counterpart to Music On Vinyl) re-released the album in 2017, yet no vinyl release was forthcoming. This omission was most likely due to the lacklustre sales performance of the album, but I believe that all music should be reissued on both formats as it not only appeases fans but has the potential to deliver the album to an entirely new audience; one that may be experiencing it for the very first time.

Turning our attention to the production values of the record and the lossless Apple Music stream, a CD-equivalent counterpart, it sounds simply exquisite. One can appreciate the recording, mix, and mastering, for 80s-era music is seldom this sonically pleasing. You’ll be met with an encapsulating soundstage, one that is perfectly balanced and allows each musical element space to breathe. Most importantly, however, it screams of Spandau Ballet’s style. With that in mind, dear reader, join me as we take a look at the music that makes up this hidden gem.

Be Free With Your Love opens the album vibrantly with its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus. Tony Hadley’s vocals are, as usual, exceptional but it’s the culmination of all aspects that make Be Free With Your Love such a compelling opening that is also perfectly suited to the sounds of the late 80s.

Crashed Into Love is a melodious number characterised by its lush instrumentation, as well as Hadley’s emotive delivery. It is, however, the bridge and chorus that grab me each time I hear this classic tune for it’s thoroughly pleasing to the senses.

Big Feeling is layered with the synth-driven elements that categorised the 80s. That isn’t a bad thing, unless you’re not interested in 80s nostalgia, but the catchy hook, sleek production, and blend of electronic and traditional rock elements highlight the band's versatility.

A Matter of Time is a slower, more contemplative song with a minimalistic arrangement that allows Hadley’s soulful vocals to take centre stage. It is, subsequently, one of the most beautiful tunes Spandau Ballet ever recorded and one of the very best songs released in the 80s.

Motivator brings the album back to a more upbeat tempo and while it isn’t a jolt to the senses, following the exceptional A Matter Of Time, Motivator is most certainly an album-only tune. That shouldn’t be seen as a negative aspect for songs like Motivator are essential in ensuring the album experience is memorable.

Raw is a standout track with its blending of elements of rock and funk, with a bold and edgy 80s new wave sound. It’s addictively good and you’ll no doubt find yourself toe-tapping and head-bopping along to the song.

Empty Spaces has a melancholic tone with a haunting melody that will resonate with your senses. Hadley’s vocal presentation is, again, flawless and perfectly positioned in the mix and the musical bed is layered beautifully, ensuring that you’ll not only hear each element perfectly, but upon repeat plays, you’ll likely come away from Empty Spaces with a greater appreciation for the tune and Spandau Ballet.

Windy Town is a mid-tempo number with a breezy melody. It’s a standout track and that’s partly due to the addition of The Phantom Horns for their inclusion ensures that Windy Town goes beyond what one would consider to be a Spandau Ballet tune.

A Handful of Dust is a stunning closing song that will not only leave you in a contemplative mood but will encourage you to play the album again. Featuring a rich and layered arrangement, with Hadley’s evocative vocals, A Handful Of Dust is another hidden gem that ensures Heart Like A Sky is the sum of its parts, rather than merely a series of haphazardly thrown-together tunes.

Heart Like A Sky is, truly, a testament to Spandau Ballet's musical prowess and artistic growth. The album blends catchy pop melodies with deeper, more introspective themes, showcasing the band's ability to evolve while staying true to their roots. Each track offers something unique, contributing to a cohesive yet diverse listening experience that is equally memorable. If you’ve yet to experience Heart Like A Sky or have dismissed it over the years, give it a play for you may find, as I have, that this album is one of the most underrated releases of 1989.