Without a doubt, 1978's The Album is the Swedish pop demigods' finest moment. (Forgive them the film.) From the opening stanzas of the visionary "Eagle" (a "Born Free" for the late '70s) to the pure joyous rush of "Take a Chance on Me" (has a cappella ever sounded so irresistible?) to the drop-dead perfect chorus on "The Name of the Game," not a heartstring is left untouched. The melodies are matchless, the production virtually defining the era. The final three tracks, subtitled "Three Scenes from a Mini-Musical"--the celebratory and often copied "Thank You for the Music," "I Wonder," and the self-deprecating "I'm a Marionette"--merely confirmed what ABBA's fans knew all along: this was pure showtime and Bjorn, Benny, Agnetha, and Frida were masters of the form. --Everett True
Product Description
Exclusive import limited edition digipak is remastered, has extensive liner notes and lyrics, and includes one bonus song, 'Thank You For The Music'(Doris Day Version)'. 10 tracks in all.
Abba - The Album [Extra tracks] [Original recording remastered]
Abba - The Album,ABBA,Polydor / Pgd,Dance-Pop,Euro-Dance,Euro-Pop,Pop,Pop Vocals,Pop/Rock,Popular Music,Rock/Pop,Swedish Pop/Rock
Average customer rating:
|
Abba - The Album
ABBA Manufacturer: Polydor / Umgd ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Similar Items:
ASIN: B00005CDNH Release Date: 2001-10-16 |
Tracks:
- Eagle
- Take A Chance On Me
- One Man, One Woman
- The Name Of The Game
- Move On
- Hole In Your Soul
- 'The Girl With The Golden Hair' 3 Scenes From A Mini Musical: Thank You For The Music
- 'The Girl With The Golden Hair' 3 Scenes From A Mini Musical: I Wonder (Departure)
- 'The Girl With The Golden Hair' 3 Scenes From A Mini Musical: I'm A Marionette
- Thank You For The Music (Doris Day Version)
Amazon.com essential recording
Without a doubt, 1978's The Album is the Swedish pop demigods' finest moment. (Forgive them the film.) From the opening stanzas of the visionary "Eagle" (a "Born Free" for the late '70s) to the pure joyous rush of "Take a Chance on Me" (has a cappella ever sounded so irresistible?) to the drop-dead perfect chorus on "The Name of the Game," not a heartstring is left untouched. The melodies are matchless, the production virtually defining the era. The final three tracks, subtitled "Three Scenes from a Mini-Musical"--the celebratory and often copied "Thank You for the Music," "I Wonder," and the self-deprecating "I'm a Marionette"--merely confirmed what ABBA's fans knew all along: this was pure showtime and Bjorn, Benny, Agnetha, and Frida were masters of the form. --Everett TrueAmazon.com
The Album's closing trilogy, "The Girl with the Golden Hair: 3 Scenes from a Mini Musical," was Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus's most ambitious work yet. But despite "Thank You for the Music," a more humble "I Write the Songs," and the barely veiled complaint "I'm a Marionette," it wasn't the 1977 LP's best stuff. That came in two great singles: "Take a Chance on Me" and "The Name of the Game," which continued the two Abba couples' string of growing-up-in-public heartache songs. ("Knowing Me, Knowing You," from the previous Arrival, inaugurated the tradition.) "The Girl," though, hinted that the Bjorn-and-Benny writing team was bent on storming the musical stage, as it did by the mid-'80s with Chess. --Rickey WrightAlbum Description
Exclusive import limited edition digipak is remastered, has extensive liner notes and lyrics, and includes one bonus song, 'Thank You For The Music'(Doris Day Version)'. 10 tracks in all.Album Details
24-bit digital remaster with new liner notes, complete lyrics and a bonus track: 'Thank You for the Music' (Doris Day Mix).Customer Reviews:
Good album...but bad re-mastering.......2007-04-30
On the other hand, these 24-bit discs sound slightly muddy and the high end (which includes acoustic guitars and cymbals) are flat or dead sounding thanks to the no-noise solution. My advice, is to save your money and keep your old discs.
Abba's Glorious Achievement........2007-02-28
1. EAGLE (5.51): I was wowed by this song when I first heard it and it is still very inventive today. An epic song which probably should have closed the album. It does conjure up images of soaring high in the skies. The production is amazing. Great shared vocals, great guitar work and the synthesizers are used to wondrous effect. Very atmospheric.
2. TAKE A CHANCE ON ME (4.04): Very popular and deservedly so. Great pop song. Enough said!
3. ONE MAN ONE WOMAN (4.31): Frida sings this song with a depressing start but ultimately ends in reconciliation. This would be a rather maudlin song but her vocals do sound full of vulnerability and then joy.
4. THE NAME OF THE GAME (4.54): Probably my favourite single ever released by Abba. This is the full length version of the song with the second verse included. It is a long way from WATERLOO and RING RING. Very complex issues dealt with here but the sharing of vocals by Agnetha and Frida works very well and the chorus is sublime with all the members contributing exquisite harmnonies. Still one of my favourite songs from the Seventies and I am mainly a rock fan!
5. MOVE ON (4.41). Not a bad song but the spoken intro by Bjorn is not necessary. Catchy chorus but the la la las in the chorus could also have benn left out.
6. HOLE IN YOUR SOUL (3.39). More of a rocker. Lyrics are a little cliched but it is nice hear them belt it out. Again the chorus is very catchy.
7. THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC (3.50). The first of three songs from the mini-musical THE GIRL WITH THE GOLDEN HAIR. One of my least favourite Abba songs. I really wish it was on another album of theirs. I know it was part of a musical but the lyrics are self indulgent and self glorifying. Have to admit I really hate this song. Technically I should only give this album 4 stars because of this song but I do enjoy the other eight tracks very much.
9. I WONDER (DEPARTURE) (4.32). Sometimes we tend to miss the lyrics of their songs because the melodies are so memorable. I moved from Ireland to the USA in 1988 and this song does capture the mood I felt leaving a lot of familiar things behind for a new daunting life. Again Frida does a great job on vocal.
9. I'M A MARIONETTE (4.03). A great way to end the album. It is a fast rocker with bitter, jaded lyrics but they pull it off very well. Includes a great guitar solo and great string arrangement. Powerful stuff!!
I know personal issues started to seep into the band at this time. It was predictable that this would take its toll on the members. They did go on to record some great songs like THE WINNER TAKES IT ALL, LAY ALL YOUR LOVE ON ME, THE VISITORS and SLIPPING THROUGH MY FINGERS. But there were too many songs that were just sub-standard. The album VOULEZ VOUS has no brilliance to it at all and was just a second rate disco album. SUPER TROUPER was a hit and miss affair and the album THE VISITORS was an aural picture of four band members fed up with each other just waiting to go their separate ways ("And now they've come to take me, come to break me and yet it isn't unexpected"). ABBA-THE ALBUM showed their vocal, melodic and musical arrangement capabilities at their best.
A True Pop Gem.......2006-11-14
Benny & Bjorn again handle all of the writing & arranging, setting up the pop landscapes for Agnetha & Frida to navigate through. It was stated that ABBA was very inspired by the California rock/pop of acts such as Steve Miller Band & Fleetwood Mac amongst others, & wanted to incorporate that sound into their own. Already the premiere pop group of the 1970's, it came as no surprise that they wanted to continue to add different sounds, & add they did.
The driving, hypontic "Eagle" opens the record on a very strong note, with beautiful blended harmonies from Agnetha & Frida. "Take A Chance On Me" takes its time with a chorus that will stick in your mind long after the song has finished. "The Name of the Game" probably ABBA's first stab at what could be called "soul" is a melancholic & melodically succesful number.
"Hole In Your Soul" is a an over-the-top ode to cheerfulness in the face of adversity, something the Beach Boys might've come up with. Here the synthesis of the "California sound" with the inescapable Swedish pop hooks, harmonies, & melody makes this cut one of the most successful songs on "The Album".
Also during this period, ABBA was working on the musical "The Girl With the Golden Hair", which featured "I Wonder (Departure)" & "I'm A Marionette", which fit in well with the theme of "The Album". The best song from these sessions, one that would become ABBA's theme & best loved song, "Thank You For the Music" was left off the original pressings of "The Album". It is included here on this record for the first time, along with the "Doris Day" version of that song. "Thank You For the Music" ranks as one of the best written songs about having passion for music today, in all its lovable schmaltz. Agnetha shines here vocally, proving that while Benny & Bjorn set the music up, it was Agnetha & Frida who captivated the audience with their unique vocal work.
From a remastering perspective, "The Album" is a great collector's piece. Released in digi-pak format, with exhaustive liner notes, & full color pictures, lyrics, added songs, & a sharper sound? An ABBA fan couldn't ask for more.
Either way, "The Album" is still one of the most well loved & accomplished records of ABBA's career. It would also be one of the last one's that was totally "carefree", since ABBA would begin to look inward for song inspiration, resulting in some of their most captivating, if dark, music ever. But "take a chance" on this one, it is pure pop perfection. Highly recommended!
ABBA on Top of Their Form. One of Their Best Studio Albums........2006-10-14
By the time ABBA released their 3rd album in 1975, Bjorn and Benny had finally decided to let the 2 girls take centre stage since they were the better singers. This turned out to be a great move because a large part of the "ABBA sound" and their success was due to the combination of Agnetha's and Frida's contrasting voices. By 1976, Bjorn and Benny had perfected their sound, their technique and the use of their 2 most powerful weapons; Agnetha and Frida. The end result was one of their most polished original albums- "Arrival". "ABBA-The Album" takes it one step further. It pretty much follows the typical ABBA formula; beautiful melodies, strong harmony singing, and attention to detail but this time around the majority of the songs are longer with meaningful lyrics. The opening track is the under-rated "Eagle" which boasts a soaring melody, interesting lyrics, outstanding vocals and exquisite guitar work. This song has appeared on several other compilation albums but in edited form. This is one of the few albums where you can hear it the way it was intended- uncut. "Eagle" is followed by "Take a Chance on Me" which features yet again, extraordinary vocals and intricate harmonies (Agnetha is especially delightful during her 2 solos in this song). Frida is given her moments to shine as well in "One Man One Woman" and "I Wonder (Departure)". The latter song showcases her talents as a vocalist proving what us ABBA fans knew all along, that these women were more than just eye candy, they had great vocal talent. "I Wonder" doesn't sound like a typical pop song. It sounds more like a theatre piece and that's the way it was intended to sound since it was part of Bjorn and Benny's mini-musical "The Girl with the Golden Hair" which was performed during their 1977 concerts.
Pop soprano Agnetha takes the lead in the interesting, undeniably lovely "Move On" and "Thank You for the Music" (also from the mini-musical). "Move On" is an interesting piece because it has a brief introduction by Bjorn and the inspirational lyrics are very poetic. The song comes to life however, when Agnetha takes the lead in the verses and her "La-la-la-la-la-la-la's" during the song's climax is riveting. "Thank You for the Music" is another famous ABBA tune with a gorgeous melody that is enhanced by Agnetha's powerful voice.
Another major highlight in "The Album" is "The Name of the Game". This song may not grab the listener immediately like ABBA's earlier hits but repeated listening (with good quality earphones) will convince you this is one of the finest songs ABBA ever produced. Several have called it a "masterpiece". It offers beautiful vocals by the girls. They start off singing in unison then they branch off with Agnetha having the first solo in the song which perfectly showcases the texture and delicacy of her instrument. Then all members dig into the chorus in perfect harmony before Frida takes the lead. They adorn this part of the song with some creative orchestrations, vocal tricks and harmonies. This song also clearly showcases the differences between the 2 vocalists. Agnetha's solos are always in a much higher register since it's her upper notes that hold her magic while Frida's sultry lower register is her trademark. One of Bjorn and Benny biggest talents (aside from writing perfect pop songs) was how they skillfully used these womens instruments. They really knew how to display their vocal beauty.
"ABBA-The Album" was a commercial hit world-wide. The album reached #1 in the UK, the Top 10 in Canada and the Top 20 in the US achieving platinum status. The 2 singles that were released in these territories were also major hits. It has been said that "Dancing Queen" was ABBA's biggest selling single in the US since it was certified Gold and it reached #1 on the charts but it has since been stated that "Take a Chance on Me" actually sold more copies in America. Whether this is true or not it was still a big hit climbing to #3 and achieving Gold status in the US. The single also reached #1 in the UK and #7 in Canada. "The Name of the Game" reached #1 in the UK, #12 in the US and #15 in Canada. "Thank You for the Music" has always been regarded as one of ABBA's hits and it was even included in their "ABBA Gold" CD. The song was never released as a single in the UK until 1983 after the groups' breakup peaking just outside the Top Thirty.
"ABBA-The Album" was the turning point in ABBA's career. From this point forward, their albums would mature both musically and lyrically. They would become more sophisticated offering not just pretty melodies but emotional depth as well. Their wonderful sound, remarkable vocal harmonies and powerful ballads would continue to grace their future albums and immortalize their talents that went unrecognized during the groups' hey-day when they were considered by many as just a "flash in the pan". Several decades later the four Swedes' music continues to sell in the millions. To date they have sold between 360-400 million records world-wide (Only The Beatles and Elvis Presley have sold more). That only confirms that ABBA's music is more than just "bubble-gum". ABBA's musical legacy will continue to endure for years to come because music this perfectly crafted only gets better with age. We can now fully appreciate them for their beauty and brilliance and when hardened music critics jump on the ABBA band-wagon and admit the radiance of their tunes only solidifies our claims that several of these songs are masterpieces.
So for the uninitiated, forget about the platforms and those silly, form-fitting costumes. It's all about the music; the timeless melodies, the intricate harmonies, the wonderful sound created when combining Agnetha and Frida's glorious voices. All of these elements helped make ABBA's music transcendent. Enjoy.
Pretty Good.......2006-06-24
Overall, the Album is pretty good.
Average customer rating:
|
The Album
ABBA Manufacturer: Universal ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Similar Items:
ASIN: B00005KKC5 Release Date: 2001-07-02 |
Tracks:
- Eagle
- Take A Chance On Me
- One Man, One Woman
- The Name Of The Game
- Move On
- Hole In Your Soul
- Thank You For The Music
- I Wonder (Departure)
- I'm A Marionette
- Thank You For The Music (Doris Day Version)
Album Details
24bit Digital Remaster with New Liner Notes, Complete Lyrics and Bonus Track: 'thank You for the Music (Doris Day Mix)'.Customer Reviews:
Wait for the 30th anniversdary release in 2008.......2007-06-24
This CD looks like a CDR........2003-11-03
Average customer rating:
|
The Album
ABBA Manufacturer: Polygram Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Similar Items:
ASIN: B000002GMY Release Date: 1995-08-22 |
Tracks:
- Eagle
- Take A Chance On Me
- One Man, One Woman
- The Name Of The Game
- Move On
- Hole In Your Soul
- Thank You For The Music
- I Wonder (Departure)
- I'm A Marionette
Amazon.com essential recording
Without a doubt, 1978's The Album is the Swedish pop demigods' finest moment. (Forgive them the film.) From the opening stanzas of the visionary "Eagle" (a "Born Free" for the late '70s) to the pure joyous rush of "Take a Chance on Me" (has a cappella ever sounded so irresistible?) to the drop-dead perfect chorus on "The Name of the Game," not a heartstring is left untouched. The melodies are matchless, the production virtually defining the era. The final three tracks, subtitled "Three Scenes from a Mini-Musical"--the celebratory and often copied "Thank You for the Music," "I Wonder," and the self-deprecating "I'm a Marionette"--merely confirmed what ABBA's fans knew all along: this was pure showtime and Bjorn, Benny, Agnetha, and Frida were masters of the form. --Everett TrueAmazon.com
The Album's closing trilogy, "The Girl with the Golden Hair: 3 Scenes from a Mini Musical," was Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus's most ambitious work yet. But despite "Thank You for the Music," a more humble "I Write the Songs," and the barely veiled complaint "I'm a Marionette," it wasn't the 1977 LP's best stuff. That came in two great singles: "Take a Chance on Me" and "The Name of the Game," which continued the two Abba couples' string of growing-up-in-public heartache songs. ("Knowing Me, Knowing You," from the previous Arrival, inaugurated the tradition.) "The Girl," though, hinted that the Bjorn-and-Benny writing team was bent on storming the musical stage, as it did by the mid-'80s with Chess. --Rickey WrightAlbum Description
Exclusive import limited edition digipak is remastered, has extensive liner notes and lyrics, and includes one bonus song, 'Thank You For The Music'(Doris Day Version)'. 10 tracks in all.Album Details
24-bit digital remaster with new liner notes, complete lyrics and a bonus track: 'Thank You for the Music' (Doris Day Mix).Customer Reviews:
Good album...but bad re-mastering.......2007-04-30
On the other hand, these 24-bit discs sound slightly muddy and the high end (which includes acoustic guitars and cymbals) are flat or dead sounding thanks to the no-noise solution. My advice, is to save your money and keep your old discs.
Abba's Glorious Achievement........2007-02-28
1. EAGLE (5.51): I was wowed by this song when I first heard it and it is still very inventive today. An epic song which probably should have closed the album. It does conjure up images of soaring high in the skies. The production is amazing. Great shared vocals, great guitar work and the synthesizers are used to wondrous effect. Very atmospheric.
2. TAKE A CHANCE ON ME (4.04): Very popular and deservedly so. Great pop song. Enough said!
3. ONE MAN ONE WOMAN (4.31): Frida sings this song with a depressing start but ultimately ends in reconciliation. This would be a rather maudlin song but her vocals do sound full of vulnerability and then joy.
4. THE NAME OF THE GAME (4.54): Probably my favourite single ever released by Abba. This is the full length version of the song with the second verse included. It is a long way from WATERLOO and RING RING. Very complex issues dealt with here but the sharing of vocals by Agnetha and Frida works very well and the chorus is sublime with all the members contributing exquisite harmnonies. Still one of my favourite songs from the Seventies and I am mainly a rock fan!
5. MOVE ON (4.41). Not a bad song but the spoken intro by Bjorn is not necessary. Catchy chorus but the la la las in the chorus could also have benn left out.
6. HOLE IN YOUR SOUL (3.39). More of a rocker. Lyrics are a little cliched but it is nice hear them belt it out. Again the chorus is very catchy.
7. THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC (3.50). The first of three songs from the mini-musical THE GIRL WITH THE GOLDEN HAIR. One of my least favourite Abba songs. I really wish it was on another album of theirs. I know it was part of a musical but the lyrics are self indulgent and self glorifying. Have to admit I really hate this song. Technically I should only give this album 4 stars because of this song but I do enjoy the other eight tracks very much.
9. I WONDER (DEPARTURE) (4.32). Sometimes we tend to miss the lyrics of their songs because the melodies are so memorable. I moved from Ireland to the USA in 1988 and this song does capture the mood I felt leaving a lot of familiar things behind for a new daunting life. Again Frida does a great job on vocal.
9. I'M A MARIONETTE (4.03). A great way to end the album. It is a fast rocker with bitter, jaded lyrics but they pull it off very well. Includes a great guitar solo and great string arrangement. Powerful stuff!!
I know personal issues started to seep into the band at this time. It was predictable that this would take its toll on the members. They did go on to record some great songs like THE WINNER TAKES IT ALL, LAY ALL YOUR LOVE ON ME, THE VISITORS and SLIPPING THROUGH MY FINGERS. But there were too many songs that were just sub-standard. The album VOULEZ VOUS has no brilliance to it at all and was just a second rate disco album. SUPER TROUPER was a hit and miss affair and the album THE VISITORS was an aural picture of four band members fed up with each other just waiting to go their separate ways ("And now they've come to take me, come to break me and yet it isn't unexpected"). ABBA-THE ALBUM showed their vocal, melodic and musical arrangement capabilities at their best.
A True Pop Gem.......2006-11-14
Benny & Bjorn again handle all of the writing & arranging, setting up the pop landscapes for Agnetha & Frida to navigate through. It was stated that ABBA was very inspired by the California rock/pop of acts such as Steve Miller Band & Fleetwood Mac amongst others, & wanted to incorporate that sound into their own. Already the premiere pop group of the 1970's, it came as no surprise that they wanted to continue to add different sounds, & add they did.
The driving, hypontic "Eagle" opens the record on a very strong note, with beautiful blended harmonies from Agnetha & Frida. "Take A Chance On Me" takes its time with a chorus that will stick in your mind long after the song has finished. "The Name of the Game" probably ABBA's first stab at what could be called "soul" is a melancholic & melodically succesful number.
"Hole In Your Soul" is a an over-the-top ode to cheerfulness in the face of adversity, something the Beach Boys might've come up with. Here the synthesis of the "California sound" with the inescapable Swedish pop hooks, harmonies, & melody makes this cut one of the most successful songs on "The Album".
Also during this period, ABBA was working on the musical "The Girl With the Golden Hair", which featured "I Wonder (Departure)" & "I'm A Marionette", which fit in well with the theme of "The Album". The best song from these sessions, one that would become ABBA's theme & best loved song, "Thank You For the Music" was left off the original pressings of "The Album". It is included here on this record for the first time, along with the "Doris Day" version of that song. "Thank You For the Music" ranks as one of the best written songs about having passion for music today, in all its lovable schmaltz. Agnetha shines here vocally, proving that while Benny & Bjorn set the music up, it was Agnetha & Frida who captivated the audience with their unique vocal work.
From a remastering perspective, "The Album" is a great collector's piece. Released in digi-pak format, with exhaustive liner notes, & full color pictures, lyrics, added songs, & a sharper sound? An ABBA fan couldn't ask for more.
Either way, "The Album" is still one of the most well loved & accomplished records of ABBA's career. It would also be one of the last one's that was totally "carefree", since ABBA would begin to look inward for song inspiration, resulting in some of their most captivating, if dark, music ever. But "take a chance" on this one, it is pure pop perfection. Highly recommended!
ABBA on Top of Their Form. One of Their Best Studio Albums........2006-10-14
By the time ABBA released their 3rd album in 1975, Bjorn and Benny had finally decided to let the 2 girls take centre stage since they were the better singers. This turned out to be a great move because a large part of the "ABBA sound" and their success was due to the combination of Agnetha's and Frida's contrasting voices. By 1976, Bjorn and Benny had perfected their sound, their technique and the use of their 2 most powerful weapons; Agnetha and Frida. The end result was one of their most polished original albums- "Arrival". "ABBA-The Album" takes it one step further. It pretty much follows the typical ABBA formula; beautiful melodies, strong harmony singing, and attention to detail but this time around the majority of the songs are longer with meaningful lyrics. The opening track is the under-rated "Eagle" which boasts a soaring melody, interesting lyrics, outstanding vocals and exquisite guitar work. This song has appeared on several other compilation albums but in edited form. This is one of the few albums where you can hear it the way it was intended- uncut. "Eagle" is followed by "Take a Chance on Me" which features yet again, extraordinary vocals and intricate harmonies (Agnetha is especially delightful during her 2 solos in this song). Frida is given her moments to shine as well in "One Man One Woman" and "I Wonder (Departure)". The latter song showcases her talents as a vocalist proving what us ABBA fans knew all along, that these women were more than just eye candy, they had great vocal talent. "I Wonder" doesn't sound like a typical pop song. It sounds more like a theatre piece and that's the way it was intended to sound since it was part of Bjorn and Benny's mini-musical "The Girl with the Golden Hair" which was performed during their 1977 concerts.
Pop soprano Agnetha takes the lead in the interesting, undeniably lovely "Move On" and "Thank You for the Music" (also from the mini-musical). "Move On" is an interesting piece because it has a brief introduction by Bjorn and the inspirational lyrics are very poetic. The song comes to life however, when Agnetha takes the lead in the verses and her "La-la-la-la-la-la-la's" during the song's climax is riveting. "Thank You for the Music" is another famous ABBA tune with a gorgeous melody that is enhanced by Agnetha's powerful voice.
Another major highlight in "The Album" is "The Name of the Game". This song may not grab the listener immediately like ABBA's earlier hits but repeated listening (with good quality earphones) will convince you this is one of the finest songs ABBA ever produced. Several have called it a "masterpiece". It offers beautiful vocals by the girls. They start off singing in unison then they branch off with Agnetha having the first solo in the song which perfectly showcases the texture and delicacy of her instrument. Then all members dig into the chorus in perfect harmony before Frida takes the lead. They adorn this part of the song with some creative orchestrations, vocal tricks and harmonies. This song also clearly showcases the differences between the 2 vocalists. Agnetha's solos are always in a much higher register since it's her upper notes that hold her magic while Frida's sultry lower register is her trademark. One of Bjorn and Benny biggest talents (aside from writing perfect pop songs) was how they skillfully used these womens instruments. They really knew how to display their vocal beauty.
"ABBA-The Album" was a commercial hit world-wide. The album reached #1 in the UK, the Top 10 in Canada and the Top 20 in the US achieving platinum status. The 2 singles that were released in these territories were also major hits. It has been said that "Dancing Queen" was ABBA's biggest selling single in the US since it was certified Gold and it reached #1 on the charts but it has since been stated that "Take a Chance on Me" actually sold more copies in America. Whether this is true or not it was still a big hit climbing to #3 and achieving Gold status in the US. The single also reached #1 in the UK and #7 in Canada. "The Name of the Game" reached #1 in the UK, #12 in the US and #15 in Canada. "Thank You for the Music" has always been regarded as one of ABBA's hits and it was even included in their "ABBA Gold" CD. The song was never released as a single in the UK until 1983 after the groups' breakup peaking just outside the Top Thirty.
"ABBA-The Album" was the turning point in ABBA's career. From this point forward, their albums would mature both musically and lyrically. They would become more sophisticated offering not just pretty melodies but emotional depth as well. Their wonderful sound, remarkable vocal harmonies and powerful ballads would continue to grace their future albums and immortalize their talents that went unrecognized during the groups' hey-day when they were considered by many as just a "flash in the pan". Several decades later the four Swedes' music continues to sell in the millions. To date they have sold between 360-400 million records world-wide (Only The Beatles and Elvis Presley have sold more). That only confirms that ABBA's music is more than just "bubble-gum". ABBA's musical legacy will continue to endure for years to come because music this perfectly crafted only gets better with age. We can now fully appreciate them for their beauty and brilliance and when hardened music critics jump on the ABBA band-wagon and admit the radiance of their tunes only solidifies our claims that several of these songs are masterpieces.
So for the uninitiated, forget about the platforms and those silly, form-fitting costumes. It's all about the music; the timeless melodies, the intricate harmonies, the wonderful sound created when combining Agnetha and Frida's glorious voices. All of these elements helped make ABBA's music transcendent. Enjoy.
Pretty Good.......2006-06-24
Overall, the Album is pretty good.
Average customer rating:
|
30th Anniversary Original Album Box
ABBA Manufacturer: Universal ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD ASIN: B000657KIO Release Date: 2004-12-27 |
Tracks:
- Ring Ring
- Another Town, Another Train
- Disillusion
- People Need Love
- I Saw It In The Mirror
- Nina, Pretty Ballerina
- Love Isn't Easy (But It Sure Is Hard Enough)
- Me & Bobby & Bobby's Brother
- He Is Your Brother
- Rin, Ring (Engelsk Version)
- I Am Just A Girl
- Rock 'N Roll Band
- Waterloo
- Sitting In The Palmtree
- King Kong Song
- Hasta Manana
- My Mama Said
- Dance (While The Music Still Goes On)
- Honey, Honey
- Watch Out
- What About Livingstone
- Gonna Sing You My Lovesong
- Suzy-Hang-Around
- Ring Ring
- Mamma Mia
- Hey, Hey Helen
- Tropical Loveland
- Sos
- Man In The Middle
- Bang A Boomerang
- I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do
- Rock Me
- Intermezzo No. 1
- I've Been Waiting For You
- So Long
- When I Kissed The Teacher
- Dancing Queen
- My Love, My Life
- Dum Dum Diddle
- Knowing Me, Knowing You
- Money, Money, Money
- That's Me
- Why Did It Have To Be Me
- Tiger
- Arrival
- Eagle
- Take A Chance On Me
- One Man, One Woman
- The Name Of The Game
- Move On
- Hole In Your Soul
- "The Girl With The Golden Hair"
- Thank You For The Music
- I Wonder
- I'ma Marionette
- As Good As New
- Voulez-Vous
- I Have A Dream
- Angel Eyes
- King Has Lost His Crown
- Does Your Mother Know
- If It Wasn't For The Nights
- Chiquitta
- Lovers (Live A Little Longer)
- Kisses Of Fire
- Super Trouper
- Winner Takes It All
- On And On And On
- Andante, Andante
- Me And I
- Happy New Year
- Our Last Summer
- Piper
- Lay All Your Love On Me
- Way Old Friends Do
- Visitors
- Head Over Heels
- When All Is Said And Done
- Soldiers
- I Let The Music Speak
- Two For The Price Of One
- Slipping Through My Fingers
- Like An Angel Passing Through My Room
- Ah, Vilka Tider
- Ring Ring (German Version)
- Wer Im Wartesaal Der Liebe Steht ("Another Town, Another Train" German Version)
- Waterloo (French Version)
- Lovelight (West Germany Single Edit)
- Waterloo (German Version)
- Eagle (Single Edit)
- I Am The City
- I Wonder (Departure) (Live Version)
- You Owe Me One
Album Description
Japan exclusive limited edition nine CD box set includes eight original albums and one exclusive bonus CD. All nine discs are packaged in miniature LP sleeves. UM. 2004.Album Details
Digitally Remastered Limited Edition Nine CD Box Set featuring Japanese Editions of all Eight of the Pop Group's Studio Albums (Bonus Tracks Included) in the LP Sleeve Replica Format. The Ninth Disc Included is a Bonus Disc with Many Non-album Tracks, Some Previously Never Released.Customer Reviews:
for hardcore Abba fans only .much material is in Japanese.......2005-03-21
It was relased in Japan earlier than it was in the US. It sells for 21,000 yen in Japan (about $200) I assume the reason for the higher price in the US is bulk import costs. I am uncertain if there is any difference with the US release but the Japanese release has a lot of materials.
Each disc is in a polyethelyne dust jacket inside a slip case with the original album art and a booklet nearly identical to the ones in the 2001 US release. The bonus disc has no booklet but the set itself includes a large 80 page booklet with album info and lyrics. About 95% of the booklet is in Japanese. There are also facsimilies from the Japanese releases of LP singles of, Hasta Manana/Honey Honey, Fernando/Tropical Loveland, Dancing Queen/Tiger, SOS/I do I do I do..., and The Winner Takes it All/Elaine.
There are also the slips often seen on Japanese releases of albums originally released outside of Japan. The box itself is a weighted slipcase.
ABBA The ultimate box set.......2005-03-20
The bonus cd is everything a true ABBA fan would want. This includes remixes and tracks never before released.
I recommend this as a keeper. This box set is a limited edition from Japan. You won't be disappointed.
Don't Buy It!.......2005-01-28
Average customer rating:
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ABBA: The Album
ABBA Manufacturer: Polygram Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Similar Items:
ASIN: B000007687 Release Date: 1999-03-16 |
Tracks:
- Eagle
- Take A Chance On Me
- One Man, One Woman
- The Name Of The Game
- Move On
- Hole In Your Soul
- Thank You For The Music
- I Wonder (Departure)
- I'm A Marionette
Amazon.com essential recording
Without a doubt, 1978's The Album is the Swedish pop demigods' finest moment. (Forgive them the film.) From the opening stanzas of the visionary "Eagle" (a "Born Free" for the late '70s) to the pure joyous rush of "Take a Chance on Me" (has a cappella ever sounded so irresistible?) to the drop-dead perfect chorus on "The Name of the Game," not a heartstring is left untouched. The melodies are matchless, the production virtually defining the era. The final three tracks, subtitled "Three Scenes from a Mini-Musical"--the celebratory and often copied "Thank You for the Music," "I Wonder," and the self-deprecating "I'm a Marionette"--merely confirmed what ABBA's fans knew all along: this was pure showtime and Bjorn, Benny, Agnetha, and Frida were masters of the form. --Everett TrueAmazon.com
The Album's closing trilogy, "The Girl with the Golden Hair: 3 Scenes from a Mini Musical," was Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus's most ambitious work yet. But despite "Thank You for the Music," a more humble "I Write the Songs," and the barely veiled complaint "I'm a Marionette," it wasn't the 1977 LP's best stuff. That came in two great singles: "Take a Chance on Me" and "The Name of the Game," which continued the two Abba couples' string of growing-up-in-public heartache songs. ("Knowing Me, Knowing You," from the previous Arrival, inaugurated the tradition.) "The Girl," though, hinted that the Bjorn-and-Benny writing team was bent on storming the musical stage, as it did by the mid-'80s with Chess. --Rickey WrightAlbum Description
24 bit digitally remastered reissue of the Swedish pop group's top 20 1977 album, featuring the #3 smash 'Take A Chance On Me' & the #12 hit 'The Name Of The Game'. Nine tracks total. 1997 Polydor release.Album Details
24-bit digital remaster with new liner notes, complete lyrics and a bonus track: 'Thank You for the Music' (Doris Day Mix).Customer Reviews:
Good album...but bad re-mastering.......2007-04-30
On the other hand, these 24-bit discs sound slightly muddy and the high end (which includes acoustic guitars and cymbals) are flat or dead sounding thanks to the no-noise solution. My advice, is to save your money and keep your old discs.
Abba's Glorious Achievement........2007-02-28
1. EAGLE (5.51): I was wowed by this song when I first heard it and it is still very inventive today. An epic song which probably should have closed the album. It does conjure up images of soaring high in the skies. The production is amazing. Great shared vocals, great guitar work and the synthesizers are used to wondrous effect. Very atmospheric.
2. TAKE A CHANCE ON ME (4.04): Very popular and deservedly so. Great pop song. Enough said!
3. ONE MAN ONE WOMAN (4.31): Frida sings this song with a depressing start but ultimately ends in reconciliation. This would be a rather maudlin song but her vocals do sound full of vulnerability and then joy.
4. THE NAME OF THE GAME (4.54): Probably my favourite single ever released by Abba. This is the full length version of the song with the second verse included. It is a long way from WATERLOO and RING RING. Very complex issues dealt with here but the sharing of vocals by Agnetha and Frida works very well and the chorus is sublime with all the members contributing exquisite harmnonies. Still one of my favourite songs from the Seventies and I am mainly a rock fan!
5. MOVE ON (4.41). Not a bad song but the spoken intro by Bjorn is not necessary. Catchy chorus but the la la las in the chorus could also have benn left out.
6. HOLE IN YOUR SOUL (3.39). More of a rocker. Lyrics are a little cliched but it is nice hear them belt it out. Again the chorus is very catchy.
7. THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC (3.50). The first of three songs from the mini-musical THE GIRL WITH THE GOLDEN HAIR. One of my least favourite Abba songs. I really wish it was on another album of theirs. I know it was part of a musical but the lyrics are self indulgent and self glorifying. Have to admit I really hate this song. Technically I should only give this album 4 stars because of this song but I do enjoy the other eight tracks very much.
9. I WONDER (DEPARTURE) (4.32). Sometimes we tend to miss the lyrics of their songs because the melodies are so memorable. I moved from Ireland to the USA in 1988 and this song does capture the mood I felt leaving a lot of familiar things behind for a new daunting life. Again Frida does a great job on vocal.
9. I'M A MARIONETTE (4.03). A great way to end the album. It is a fast rocker with bitter, jaded lyrics but they pull it off very well. Includes a great guitar solo and great string arrangement. Powerful stuff!!
I know personal issues started to seep into the band at this time. It was predictable that this would take its toll on the members. They did go on to record some great songs like THE WINNER TAKES IT ALL, LAY ALL YOUR LOVE ON ME, THE VISITORS and SLIPPING THROUGH MY FINGERS. But there were too many songs that were just sub-standard. The album VOULEZ VOUS has no brilliance to it at all and was just a second rate disco album. SUPER TROUPER was a hit and miss affair and the album THE VISITORS was an aural picture of four band members fed up with each other just waiting to go their separate ways ("And now they've come to take me, come to break me and yet it isn't unexpected"). ABBA-THE ALBUM showed their vocal, melodic and musical arrangement capabilities at their best.
A True Pop Gem.......2006-11-14
Benny & Bjorn again handle all of the writing & arranging, setting up the pop landscapes for Agnetha & Frida to navigate through. It was stated that ABBA was very inspired by the California rock/pop of acts such as Steve Miller Band & Fleetwood Mac amongst others, & wanted to incorporate that sound into their own. Already the premiere pop group of the 1970's, it came as no surprise that they wanted to continue to add different sounds, & add they did.
The driving, hypontic "Eagle" opens the record on a very strong note, with beautiful blended harmonies from Agnetha & Frida. "Take A Chance On Me" takes its time with a chorus that will stick in your mind long after the song has finished. "The Name of the Game" probably ABBA's first stab at what could be called "soul" is a melancholic & melodically succesful number.
"Hole In Your Soul" is a an over-the-top ode to cheerfulness in the face of adversity, something the Beach Boys might've come up with. Here the synthesis of the "California sound" with the inescapable Swedish pop hooks, harmonies, & melody makes this cut one of the most successful songs on "The Album".
Also during this period, ABBA was working on the musical "The Girl With the Golden Hair", which featured "I Wonder (Departure)" & "I'm A Marionette", which fit in well with the theme of "The Album". The best song from these sessions, one that would become ABBA's theme & best loved song, "Thank You For the Music" was left off the original pressings of "The Album". It is included here on this record for the first time, along with the "Doris Day" version of that song. "Thank You For the Music" ranks as one of the best written songs about having passion for music today, in all its lovable schmaltz. Agnetha shines here vocally, proving that while Benny & Bjorn set the music up, it was Agnetha & Frida who captivated the audience with their unique vocal work.
From a remastering perspective, "The Album" is a great collector's piece. Released in digi-pak format, with exhaustive liner notes, & full color pictures, lyrics, added songs, & a sharper sound? An ABBA fan couldn't ask for more.
Either way, "The Album" is still one of the most well loved & accomplished records of ABBA's career. It would also be one of the last one's that was totally "carefree", since ABBA would begin to look inward for song inspiration, resulting in some of their most captivating, if dark, music ever. But "take a chance" on this one, it is pure pop perfection. Highly recommended!
ABBA on Top of Their Form. One of Their Best Studio Albums........2006-10-14
By the time ABBA released their 3rd album in 1975, Bjorn and Benny had finally decided to let the 2 girls take centre stage since they were the better singers. This turned out to be a great move because a large part of the "ABBA sound" and their success was due to the combination of Agnetha's and Frida's contrasting voices. By 1976, Bjorn and Benny had perfected their sound, their technique and the use of their 2 most powerful weapons; Agnetha and Frida. The end result was one of their most polished original albums- "Arrival". "ABBA-The Album" takes it one step further. It pretty much follows the typical ABBA formula; beautiful melodies, strong harmony singing, and attention to detail but this time around the majority of the songs are longer with meaningful lyrics. The opening track is the under-rated "Eagle" which boasts a soaring melody, interesting lyrics, outstanding vocals and exquisite guitar work. This song has appeared on several other compilation albums but in edited form. This is one of the few albums where you can hear it the way it was intended- uncut. "Eagle" is followed by "Take a Chance on Me" which features yet again, extraordinary vocals and intricate harmonies (Agnetha is especially delightful during her 2 solos in this song). Frida is given her moments to shine as well in "One Man One Woman" and "I Wonder (Departure)". The latter song showcases her talents as a vocalist proving what us ABBA fans knew all along, that these women were more than just eye candy, they had great vocal talent. "I Wonder" doesn't sound like a typical pop song. It sounds more like a theatre piece and that's the way it was intended to sound since it was part of Bjorn and Benny's mini-musical "The Girl with the Golden Hair" which was performed during their 1977 concerts.
Pop soprano Agnetha takes the lead in the interesting, undeniably lovely "Move On" and "Thank You for the Music" (also from the mini-musical). "Move On" is an interesting piece because it has a brief introduction by Bjorn and the inspirational lyrics are very poetic. The song comes to life however, when Agnetha takes the lead in the verses and her "La-la-la-la-la-la-la's" during the song's climax is riveting. "Thank You for the Music" is another famous ABBA tune with a gorgeous melody that is enhanced by Agnetha's powerful voice.
Another major highlight in "The Album" is "The Name of the Game". This song may not grab the listener immediately like ABBA's earlier hits but repeated listening (with good quality earphones) will convince you this is one of the finest songs ABBA ever produced. Several have called it a "masterpiece". It offers beautiful vocals by the girls. They start off singing in unison then they branch off with Agnetha having the first solo in the song which perfectly showcases the texture and delicacy of her instrument. Then all members dig into the chorus in perfect harmony before Frida takes the lead. They adorn this part of the song with some creative orchestrations, vocal tricks and harmonies. This song also clearly showcases the differences between the 2 vocalists. Agnetha's solos are always in a much higher register since it's her upper notes that hold her magic while Frida's sultry lower register is her trademark. One of Bjorn and Benny biggest talents (aside from writing perfect pop songs) was how they skillfully used these womens instruments. They really knew how to display their vocal beauty.
"ABBA-The Album" was a commercial hit world-wide. The album reached #1 in the UK, the Top 10 in Canada and the Top 20 in the US achieving platinum status. The 2 singles that were released in these territories were also major hits. It has been said that "Dancing Queen" was ABBA's biggest selling single in the US since it was certified Gold and it reached #1 on the charts but it has since been stated that "Take a Chance on Me" actually sold more copies in America. Whether this is true or not it was still a big hit climbing to #3 and achieving Gold status in the US. The single also reached #1 in the UK and #7 in Canada. "The Name of the Game" reached #1 in the UK, #12 in the US and #15 in Canada. "Thank You for the Music" has always been regarded as one of ABBA's hits and it was even included in their "ABBA Gold" CD. The song was never released as a single in the UK until 1983 after the groups' breakup peaking just outside the Top Thirty.
"ABBA-The Album" was the turning point in ABBA's career. From this point forward, their albums would mature both musically and lyrically. They would become more sophisticated offering not just pretty melodies but emotional depth as well. Their wonderful sound, remarkable vocal harmonies and powerful ballads would continue to grace their future albums and immortalize their talents that went unrecognized during the groups' hey-day when they were considered by many as just a "flash in the pan". Several decades later the four Swedes' music continues to sell in the millions. To date they have sold between 360-400 million records world-wide (Only The Beatles and Elvis Presley have sold more). That only confirms that ABBA's music is more than just "bubble-gum". ABBA's musical legacy will continue to endure for years to come because music this perfectly crafted only gets better with age. We can now fully appreciate them for their beauty and brilliance and when hardened music critics jump on the ABBA band-wagon and admit the radiance of their tunes only solidifies our claims that several of these songs are masterpieces.
So for the uninitiated, forget about the platforms and those silly, form-fitting costumes. It's all about the music; the timeless melodies, the intricate harmonies, the wonderful sound created when combining Agnetha and Frida's glorious voices. All of these elements helped make ABBA's music transcendent. Enjoy.
Pretty Good.......2006-06-24
Overall, the Album is pretty good.
Average customer rating: |
Album/Voulez-Vous
Abba Manufacturer: Universal ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD ASIN: B000MV92U6 Release Date: 2007-04-02 |
Average customer rating: |
30th Anniversary Original Album Box
ABBA Manufacturer: Universal ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD ASIN: B0007W22ES |
Tracks:
- Ring Ring
- Another Town Another Train
- Disillusion
- People Need Love
- I Saw It In The Mirror
- Nina Pretty Ballerina
- Love Isn't Easy
- Me & Bobby & Bobby's Brother
- He Is Your Brother
- Ring Ring (English Version)
- I Am Just A Girl
- Rock'n Roll Band
- Merry-Go Round
- Santa Rosa
- Ring Ring
- Waterloo (English Version)
- Sitting In The Palmtree
- King Kong Song
- Hasta Manana
- My Mama Said
- Dance
- Honey Honey
- Watch Out
- What About Livingstone
- Gonna Sing You My Lovesong
- Suzy-Hang-Around
- Ring Ring
- Waterloo
- Honey Honey (Svensk Version)
- Mamma Mia
- Hey Hey Helen
- Tropical Loveland
- Sos
- Man In The Middle
- Bang-A-Boomerang
- I Do I Do I Do I Do I Do
- Rock Me
- Intermezzo No 1
- I've Been Waiting For You
- So Long
- Crazy World
- Medley: Pick A Bale Of Cotton
- Top Of Old Smokey
- Midnight Special
- When I Kissed The Teacher
- Dancing Queen
- My Love My Life
- Dum Dum Diddle
- Knowing Me Knowing You
- Money Money Money
- That's Me
- Why Did It Have To Be Me
- Tiger
- Arrival
- Fernando
- Happy Hawaii
- Eagle
- Take A Chance On Me
- One Man One Woman
- Name Of The Game
- Move On
- Hole In Your Soul
- Girl With The Golden Hair/Thank You For The Music/I Wonder/I'm A Marionette
- Thank You For The Music (Doris Day Version)
- As Good As New
- Voulez-Vous
- I Have A Dream
- Angel Eyes
- King Has Lost His Crown
- Does Your Mother Know
- If It Wasn't For The Nights
- Chiquitita
- Lovers
- Kisses Of Fire
- Summer Night City
- Lovelight
- Gimme Gimme Gimme
- Super Trouper
- Winner Takes It All
- On & On & On
- Andante Andante
- Me & I
- Happy New Year
- Our Last Summer
- Piper
- Lay All Your Love On Me
- Way Old Friends Do
- Elaine
- Put On Your White Sombrero
- Visitors
- Head Over Heels
- When All Is Said & Done
- I Let The Music Speak
- One Of Us
- One Of Us
- Two For The Price Of One
- Slipping Through My Fingers
- Like An Angel Passing Through My
- Should I Laugh Or Cry
- Day Before You Came
- Cassandra
- Under Attack
- Ah Vilka Tider
- Ring Ring (German Version)
- Wer Im Wartesaal Der Liebe Steht (Another Town Another Train)
- Waterloo (French Version)
- Lovelight (West German Single Edit)
- Waterloo (German Version)
- Eagle (Single Edit)
- I Am The City
- I Wonder (Live Version)
- You Owe Me One
Meditation Music:
- Accordion Italiano
- America's Greatest Hero
- B*Witched [Enhanced]
- Beautiful [CD-single] [Enhanced] [Import]
- Best of: Live & Electric [Import]
- Billboard Top Hits: 1977
- Brian Wilson (Dlx) [Original recording remastered]
- Casino Royale [Soundtrack]
- Chicka Chicka Boom Boom and Other Coconutty Songs
- Christmas Collection: 20th Century Masters
Meditation Music
Las Cantigas de Alfonso El Sabio
Hansgeorg Schmeiser plays music for Solo Flute
Music: Techno & House Latino [Import]
Hardhouse Anthems 2001 [Limited Edition] [Import]
Future Trance, Vol. 28 [Import]
Hits You Remember: Live [Live]
God Bless the USA: Kids Sing Songs for America