Voulez-Vous / Angeleyes

About

After a string of international hits, ABBA had polished its trademark Eurodisco-cum-American pop sound to an almost blinding sheen. <i>Voulez-Vous</i> (1979) represents some of the last creative gleanings in this direction; subsequent releases by the Swedish foursome would betray more of a modern rock influence. If the formula is familiar here, it still delivers an exhilarating rush on tracks like “Angeleyes,” “Does Your Mother Know?” and “Kisses Of Fire.” A few unexpected twists are thrown in, like the sitar-like synths on “I Have A Dream” and the classical embellishments in “As Good As New.” Along with the breathlessly upbeat tunes are two standout midtempo numbers, the Spanish-flavored “Chiquitita” and the lightly-funky “If It Wasn’t For The Nights.” Agnetha and Frida achieve their typically delectable vocal blend, while Bjorn and Benny reaffirm their stature as pop master-craftsmen. <i>Voulez-Vous</i> has a certain over-ripeness to it, a sense that fresher ideas would be needed for the next project. But for those with an appetite for ABBA’s irresistible hooks and scintillating harmonies, this album is more than satisfying.

via Apple Music