Eleanor Corney
Norwegian pop band A-ha embrace Nordic living in their latest album True North. This is an album that cements the members together, showcasing true camaraderie, whilst also proclaiming them to be individuals who each contribute something special to the band.
A Return To Their Nordic Roots
The album pays homage to the band’s Scandinavian roots, with a beautifully composed setlist that radiates a Nordic lifestyle of comfort and well-being.
“the band paint a picture of their charming country”
I’m In launches the album with a slow track that revolves around dedicating a full commitment to someone who is experiencing a tough time. The lyrics are clear as the band sing: “I’m in, begin / Never give up, never you stop.” Next up is Hunter In The Hills – arguably the most alluring track on the album. Through their musical talents, the band paint a picture of their charming country as they describe a stunning Norwegian setting to the listener.
Additionally, Bumblebee diffuses more of a narrative feel, giving us a further taste of Nordic living. Like Hunter In The Hills, it transforms the listener to the solace surroundings of Norway as they communicate what life was like back home for the band. Their tribute to their home country is tied together wonderfully with the title track True North, which takes listeners on a journey through The Norwegian Sea.
Powerful Compositions
A-ha’s compositions are more prominent when the album contemplates the state of the world. For example, in Between The Halo And The Horn, we face a contemplation between good and evil, and right and wrong. The construction of the song is powerful and allows the listener to be really immersed in the audio experience.
“it possesses the essence of A-ha”
The track As If treats us to a catchy chorus whilst demonstrating upbeat and tuneful elements. It possesses the essence of A-Ha as a band and reminds us why we, as listeners, come back time and time again.
“The flute and oboe additions to the song sound just right, almost as if they were meant to be there.”
Another song that exercises a similar power is Forest For The Trees. The flute and oboe are perfect editions to the song, which would sound empty in their absence. The notes from the clarinet section on the closing track, Oh My Word do an even better job of highlighting the work A-ha have put into their music this time around.
They sing: “Sad days belong to the past / Only a fool could expect them to last / Fist clenched, tears in the eyes / Awaiting the moment when it subsides.” The lyrics fittingly compliment the softness of the song, and they uplift the compositions.
Overall
Overall, this album is a 5/5. A-ha have taken us back in time to the music we all know and love, and they have done so successfully.
Featured image courtesy of Marius Masalar via Unsplash. Image license found here.
