ABBA’s self-titled studio album, their third, is a landmark release that distanced itself from the somewhat whimsically juvenile B-sides that littered Ring Ring and Waterloo. No, ABBA isn’t a serious album, by any stretch of the imagination, but where it separates itself from its predecessors is, in part, due to the higher production values and synergy between not only the songwriting team of Benny Andersson, Bjorn Ulvaeus, and Stig Anderson, but with the core ABBA members themselves. While ABBA is most certainly a standout release amongst their formative years, it remains one of their very best, and most underrated, albums and is also amongst the best records released in 1975.

While I always focus on the album experience, first and foremost, this eponymous release gave music lovers seven riveting singles, some of which have become staples in ABBA’s extensive back catalogue. Songs such as Mamma Mia, SOS, and I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do showcase the band’s ability to craft infectious pop and disco melodies that would not only solidify their status as one of the most influential acts of the 20th century but would ultimately make them timeless.

As already alluded to, the production qualities increased significantly upon this release but as longtime fans will note, not all editions of the album are created equally. It’s all in the mastering and it was unfortunate that I purchased one of the most brittle vinyl editions; the 2011 Back To Black (POLS 262) vinyl re-issue. The lossless Apple Music edition, an Apple Digital Master, is leaps and bounds ahead of that 2011 vinyl reissue as it has a far greater sense of space and clarity.

The ABBA fan within, however, couldn’t let one edition forever tarnish this great album. As such, when the ABBA – The Studio Albums box set was reissued in 2020, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to dump all previous Back To Black reissues and give this one a shot. Impressed, by the entire box set, would be an understatement. It’s the very definition of perfect and while your subjective preference may differ from mine, I consider the box set, and the version of ABBA, to be the final word in sonic quality as it’s flawless.

Of course, I can’t take the record everywhere with me, so for that purpose, the lossless Apple Music stream remains a highly respectable digital counterpart that is every bit as pleasurable as the 2020 vinyl reissue. Yes, the vinyl reissue is blessed with the renowned warmth of the format, but the Apple Music stream suffers from no digital glare and has the same smooth and dynamic presentation as its counterpart, so it’s likely to appeal to most music lovers.

As you head into the breakdown of the songs that make up this incredible release, it’s important to note that only the core songs, from the album’s original release, are featured below. This is because I’m a purist at heart and while I’m aware of the bonus tracks that have been made available via subsequent digital reissues, I much prefer listening to the album in its original linear structure. Thankfully, the additional tracks can be heard at any time via the Bonus Track Version, but for some reason, the Deluxe Edition is no longer available on Apple Music. Nevertheless, sit back, relax, and let’s take a look at the songs that make up this landmark release.

Mamma Mia is a perfect album opener. Iconic and catchy, this lively tune perfectly encapsulates ABBA’s signature sound. It also helps that it’s got an infectious melody and irresistible chorus, for you’ll find yourself captivated from the very first note to the last.

Hey, Hey Helen is a little quirky when compared to Mamma Mia, but it works with its spirited tempo and vocal delivery. It can, however, get a little monotonous throughout the chorus, but as a fan of ABBA’s rock-focused tunes, I can live with that aspect, in part, because the riff is simply incredible.

Tropical Loveland shifts the tone of the album and adds a touch of reggae. This isn’t up to Bob Marley & The Wailers' standards, but it’s a solid tune and further showcases ABBA’s diverse musical arrangements. Plus, it does give you a sense of being transported to a sun-soaked paradise, thereby making it memorable, relaxful, and thoroughly enjoyable.

SOS is what I call a disco ballad for its combination of haunting melody, heartfelt lyrics, and emotional depth are regularly associated with ballad-styled music. Yet, add in the uptempo musical elements and you’ve got the disco component. Either way, and no matter how you choose to enjoy SOS, one thing is for certain; ABBA doesn’t get much better than this!

Man In The Middle is a dynamic and energetic track with impeccable harmonies and infectious rhythms that are ideally suited to the era. The song's catchy chorus and driving beat make it a standout track on the album and is, arguably, one of ABBA’s best, lesser-known, tracks.

Bang-A-Boomerang is a joyous and infectious tune that harks back to ABBA's origins. With its catchy melody and playful lyrics, Bang-A-Boomerang is guaranteed to put a smile on your face as you dance along to the irresistible rhythm. Perhaps the only negative aspect of the song is that there’s a little too much distortion present and it comes across as a demo, rather than a complete tune. It isn’t a dealbreaker, but it’s one song that can be jarring on the senses if you have too much treble dialled into your stereo.

I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do is a jubilant number with an upbeat tempo and infectious chorus. The song's catchy hooks and spirited vocals make it a standout and while it may not be everyone’s favourite, I’ve no doubt most would agree that the alto saxophone tracking that Ulf Andersson laid down is simply exquisite.

Rock Me is dynamic and electrifying. With its driving beat and energetic vocals, this song is guaranteed to get you on your feet, dancing along to the infectious rhythm.

Intermezzo No.1 is a captivating instrumental masterpiece that highlights ABBA's talent for crafting lush and evocative music. With its sweeping melodies and intricate arrangements, this song is a testament to the band's creative vision.

I’ve Been Waiting For You is one of Agnetha’s most beautiful vocal performances and is another song that showcases the emotional depth and musical sophistication ABBA brought to their music via this album.

So Long isn’t the strongest closing tune, particularly after I’ve Been Waiting For You, as it feels out of place within the flow of the album. Where it could have been placed instead, I’ve no idea. It’s a low point but, one thing is certain, it will leave you with a spirited and upbeat feeling that will compel you to listen to the album again.

Overall, ABBA's self-titled album is a minor masterpiece that showcases the band's unparalleled talent and musical innovation. Their skills in both increased production quality and songwriting are notable, resulting in infectious melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and dynamic performances that are timeless and are a must-have for any music lover's collection.

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