ABBA's seventh studio album became their most mature lyrically, slightly darker and more personal, musically their finest at the peak of the group's career. Benny's masterly of his Yamaha GX-1 synthesizer is clearly evident and went on to inspire what later became known as synthpop and electronic music.
“The Winner Takes It All” was nearly autobiographical in the divorce between Agnetha and Bjorn. Written by Bjorn. Getting your ex-wife to perform it was a feat in itself. Benny's musical arrangement was simple, elegant and perfectly suited. Considered by many as the group's greatest recording.
Single “Elaine” song here as a ‘bonus track’ is by some the closest the group ever got to New Wave.
Other stand out tracks include, disco “Super Trouper”, “On And On And On” and “Lay All Your Love On Me”, “Happy New Year” and ballads “Our Last Summer” and “The Way Old Friends Do”.
Play the album as originally intended from tracks 1 to 10 and each song flows beautifully from beginning to end. Often regarded as a singles band, this album proofs they could craft a great pop album as well.