A-Ha (Scoundrel Days)
The Album
A-Ha (Scoundrel Days) was released on 6 October 1986. It was the second studio album by the Norwegian new wave band.
In the pantheon of iconic 80s synth-pop, A-Ha stands tall as one of the genre’s luminaries. While their debut album, “Hunting High and Low,” catapulted them to global stardom with the timeless hit “Take On Me,” it was their sophomore effort, “Scoundrel Days,” that showcased the band’s evolution and depth. Released in 1986, this album took A-Ha’s music to new heights, blending haunting melodies, introspective lyrics, and innovative production to create a sonic masterpiece that remains relevant and influential to this day.
A-Ha (Scoundrel Days) marked a departure from the more straightforward pop sound of their debut. A-Ha, consisting of Morten Harket (vocals), Magne Furuholmen (keyboards, guitar), and Pål Waaktaar (guitar), delved into darker, more atmospheric territory. The album opens with the title track, a brooding and atmospheric piece that sets the tone for the entire album. The use of synthesizers and electronic elements throughout the record showcased the band’s willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of their sound.
One of the standout features of “Scoundrel Days” is its lyrical depth. A-Ha moved beyond the typical love song fare, exploring themes of introspection, existentialism, and the complexities of human relationships. Songs like “I’ve Been Losing You” and “October” are poignant reflections on heartbreak and loss, while “Manhattan Skyline” paints a vivid picture of urban life and longing. Morten Harket’s emotive and soulful vocals elevate the lyrics, adding a layer of authenticity to the album.
While “Take On Me” from their debut album remains A-Ha’s most iconic track, “Scoundrel Days” boasts its own share of hits and hidden gems. “I’ve Been Losing You” became a chart-topping success, showcasing the band’s ability to craft catchy hooks while maintaining a mature and sophisticated sound. The hauntingly beautiful “Manhattan Skyline” and the atmospheric “Cry Wolf” are also standout tracks that showcase the band’s musical versatility.
“Scoundrel Days” not only solidified A-Ha’s status as a musical innovator but also left an indelible mark on the synth-pop genre. The album’s influence can be heard in the work of subsequent generations of musicians who have drawn inspiration from its atmospheric soundscapes and introspective lyrics. A-Ha’s ability to balance commercial success with artistic integrity is a testament to the enduring appeal of “Scoundrel Days.”
Conclusion
As we revisit the musical landscape of the 80s, A-Ha’s “Scoundrel Days” remains a standout album that transcends its era. The marriage of haunting melodies, introspective lyrics, and innovative production makes it a timeless piece of art that continues to captivate listeners across generations. Whether you’re a devoted fan or a newcomer to A-Ha’s discography, “Scoundrel Days” is an essential journey through the synths and sounds of one of the most influential bands of the 80s.
Track Listing
- Scoundrel Days
- The Swing of Things
- I’ve Been Losing You
- October
- Manhattan Skyline
- Cry Wolf
- We’re Looking for the Whales
- The Weight of the Wind
- Maybe, Maybe
- Soft Rains of April
Cry Wolf
Lyrics
Oh, night I left the city, dreamt of wolf
He came from where the winds are cold
And truth is seen through keyholes
Strange longings that’ll never sleep
And now he’s come where no heart beats
Cry wolf, time to worry
Cry wolf, time to worry now
You can start but you cannot stop
You give in but you can’t give up
You can tell all your desperate jokes
To a world that puts your love on hold
Cry wolf, time to worry
Cry wolf, time to worry now
Cry wolf, time to worry
Cry wolf, time to worry now
The sunken-in eyes
And the pain in his cries
A shape in the dark
Cry wolf, time to worry
Cry wolf, time to worry now
Cry wolf, time to worry now
Cry wolf, time to worry now
Cry wolf, time to worry
Cry wolf, time to worry now
Cry wolf, time to worry now
Cry wolf, time to worry now