REVIEW: A-Ha – Take On Me (40th Anniversary Edition)
In 1985, the Norwegian synth-pop band – consisting of Pal Waaktaar-Savoy, Magne Furhuholmen and Morten Harket – scored a number 1 hit with their absolutely massive single, “Take On Me”. To celebrate the smash single’s 40th anniversary, Rhino Records has released a new EP featuring 8 different versions of the song as part of its Record Store Day Black Friday offerings.
The track in its original form was first released as a standalone single in Europe in 1984, but failed to make a dent but was retuned with producer Alan Tarney and his collection of synths in 1985 and paired with the stunning “comic book come to life” music video and near constant MTV airplay, A-Ha finally had their “a-ha” moment!
Pressed onto ruby red vinyl, the 12” features four versions of “Take On Me” on each side. Side one opens with a new extended version created specifically for this edition, recently created by producers Jos Leene and Vinny Vero. The 1984 single version of the song follows and listeners can hear how the 1985 differs with changes to the synths and drum machine sounds. Next, is the beloved 1985 single version that is pretty much inescapable at this point; not that I’m complaining. The first side closes out with an infectiously danceable instrumental version.
The B-side features a beautiful and cinematic symphonic version created for the various artists compilation, Symphonic 80’s, released in 2018. The next two versions are acoustic takes including a stirring 2017 MTV Unplugged performance and the standout track – a previously unreleased acoustic version from 2017 that really showcases vocalist Morten Harket’sunbelievable vocal range, with piano and acoustic guitars taking the place of the synths. Closing out the set is an exciting live version of the track taken from their concert home video Live In South America from 1991, that really showcases the band’s live prowess with the inclusion of guitars and an extended guitar solo.
While many may consider A-Ha and their unforgettable song, “Take On Me” a “one hit wonder”, their 1985 debut album, Hunting High & Low is proof that they were so much more, if you just give it the time. Even still, the song is a certified classic and this new release celebrating its 40th anniversary is the perfect way to honor such a song.
Justin Kreitzer for Icon Fetch
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