The Collection

Sound DNA

• Soul & Funk
• Disco

• polished
• celebratory
• hedonistic

About

Getting a handle on the abundance of key tracks in ABBA’s platinum-studded catalog can be daunting. Fortunately, <i>The Essential Collection</i> manages the job nicely by gathering the band’s top hits from a variety of international markets, with a sprinkling of b-sides and album cuts as well. This two-disc compilation testifies to the creative ambition and growth that ABBA's four members displayed over a decade’s worth of recording. As these 39 tracks show, Bjorn, Benny, Agnetha, and Frida moved from the bubbly ’50-influenced rock of “Ring Ring” into the mature balladry of “The Day Before You Came” and the sleek techno-pop of “Under Attack” without losing their distinctive melodic charm. Lesser-known tracks like “That’s Me,” “One Man, One Woman,” and “Happy New Year” stand up well against the signature hits. While other anthologies are more exhaustive, <i>The Essential Collection</i> is probably the one to have if you want to experience ABBA at their most inventive, energized, and enduringly successful. (Also available is a DVD version of the album that contains 36 music videos and promo clips.)

via Apple Music

Tracklist

Credits