A-ha

Hunting High & Low

80's Synth-Pop, with much more musical depth

Review Score:

(10/10)
We all remember the hit song, "Take On Me", and its awesome video. However, most music listeners don't know anything beyond that track and just dismiss the band as one-hit wonders. It's important to note that the band found continued success in Europe/Asia; most U.S. listeners forget that their is an outside market with valuable opinions that exists beyond their shores. Sadly, the public doesn't know what they are missing. Most would probably purchase the album just for that song and end up ignoring a perfectly good album. That's what this particular LP is. A classic, in my opinion. It may not have songs that are mainstream, but does that one quality define an artist's "success"? To all fans of the song, 80's music, or just pop music in general, let me just say this: BUY THIS ALBUM. The songwriting is alot more special than most would ever think. The title track itself is an example, with touching sentimental words about someone who harbors true, unwavering love for another. Most of the songs are about being in love, but feeling fear at the thought of losing it. I think this is something many people can relate to. The words are simple, but vivid and memorable with each passing moment. A-Ha may be the most underrated band in America. Such a shame. The public needs to be more educated on this fantastic group. Morten Harket, in my opinion, has one of the greatest "voices" in music as a whole. This LP is just a small sample of what he is as a vocalist and the band itself is capable of musically. "The Sun Always Shines on TV" is perhaps my favorite song by the band; the sound is heavy and the words cut into the soul like a sharp blade. While some of the sounds may seem outdated, a warm feeling transmitted to the listener never goes away. Morten's voice is like an instrument onto itself; you can feel all of the emotions he is unloading with words. All of the tracks run together like a wonderful piece of art. However, this is not the greatest album done by A-Ha. Their skills only evolved with time. If you're intrigued enough to buy it and find it to be as special as I say it is, I urge you continue on that path and purchase all their albums. I can safely say you won't be disappointed. Enjoy!

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