Now and them combined, as they sing in Don't shut me down. Abba is back and what a relief they still sound like themselves and instead of the break of 39 years it could be three years, or nine. But then again, the 1980's sound is back so the timing is perfect - or was it this they were waiting all this time? Agnetha and Frida may have lost the crystalline edge of their voice but they still are totally recognizable. A bit deeper and huskier but still the voice mix that always made Abba stand out. Despite the comeback the ladies have chosen to stay out of spotlight and leave the talking to Björn and Benny.
Meanwhile the fandom all over the world has gone crazy and one can pre-order the album (apparently the servers crashed due demand) in many different sleeves and versions, including.... cassette! I'm sure there are fans who will buy each and every version and worship them there's no tomorrow.
As for me, I'm a bit amused. I never thought this would happen like most everyone but now that it has it is kind of nice to see them in action again. I grew up with their music without listening to it actively as it was played everywhere, as it has been again since Abba Gold and Mamma mia! mania hit the world again. Mind you, last night walking home a street musician was playing their music at the station. As all these years if you think about it. Abba is, and has been, a soundtrack of my life like anyone else's. To have new music from them certainly is a treat.
And yes, I prefer Don't shut me down.
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