Stanley In Heaven are a five piece indie rock band from Halifax and they sound like a mature Arctic Monkeys with a sound that is very radio friendly.

http://www.myspace.com/stanleyinheavenmusic

I personally feel that they edge toward very eary Police when Sting knew how to entertain and write great pop songs, and there is nothing wrong with that believe me. I wouldn’t mind a few zeros from his bank balance

Stanley In Heaven are favourites of Vini Reilly from the Durutti Column and also the real Mr. Manchester Bruce Mitchell and if they like them then enough said as far as I’m concerned. I’m listening knowing I’m going to like the music – and I do.

So what about the songs? Well I’m listening to their MySpace player with “Tonight in Las Vegas” on and I love the way the verses have that punctuated guitar and bass playing which then breaks to the lull of the bridge and then the chorus kicks in bringing the whole thing together with a superb melody and hook.

Next up is “Days and Weeks” and it shows consistency in their sound. From the start to the first chorus they build up and up and eventually we reach yet another wonderful melody and hook with some lovely harmonies to the lead.

I love the colour to Joey’s voice and performance. The whole band are pulling in the same direction and seem to know exactly where they’re going. I don’t mean that they’ve rehearsed and know the songs – I’m talking about something deeper, less tangible, but ultimately the most important aspect of any band. They’ve got it.

There are times that I think I’m listening to early Inspiral Carpets too which is a real boon… pardon the pun. There is a retro indie sound here yet a very modern one.

Have a listen to their songs yourself on their MySpace. I think you’ll enjoy them.

http://www.myspace.com/stanleyinheavenmusic