Ace Of Base

Cruel Summer

If the God of Pop had a face, it would be in Ace of Base.

Review Score:

(10/10)
They are without a doubt the ABBA of the '90s. From their smash debut, the reggae-tinged dance classic "All That She Wants", to the upbeat and sunny pop of their Top 10 hit "Cruel Summer", Ace of Base follow directly behind their '70s predecessors- creating nothing more than guilty yet heartwarming singles that somehow manage to stick around years after their release. "Cruel Summer", the third offering from the Swedish foursome, shines in the face of their dark, yet superb 1995 set "The Bridge", incorporating the same elements as their previous albums- synthesize-heavy dance and simple, catchy melodies. One new element finds its way onto this set- Motown-inspired '70s pop. With "Donnie", "Always Have, Always Will", and "Cecilia", Ace of Base sound less like ABBA and more like the European versions of the Jackson 5 or The Supremes. On "Travel To Romantis" and "Tokyo Girl", it's back to business as usual with thumping dance grooves and spruces of techno. "Cruel Summer" isn't the most innovative record, yet it is among the greats of pop music- designed to make you feel bright and giddy, and to send your heart on wings.

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