ABBA – Arrival

Exactly as described, good condition. Ripped perfectly, thank you. Recommended seller.

Any album with "Dancing Queen" receives a 5 star rating automatically. lol

Yes, the bass is strong with this one. Is this the best Miles could do with what he had to work with? Is this the way they intended? Hey it might even sound good on tinny speakers. Can definitely hear some additional detail but I totally get why someone might feel it's a bit muddy with all that forward bass. I think Miles heard you and that's why later albums don't sound quite as bassy.

That Discomate release better be good, by the way, since you just made me go and order it. 🤣

Super-clean pressing of this classic album. Mastering is warm - though not overly detailed. From what I’ve been able to discover, Atlantic we’re sent a copy tape, so it’s not cut from the master tape. The album was not that well-recorded - Super Trouper was the album where ABBA finally hit their straps from an audiophile standard, so set your expectations accordingly. Personally, I’ve always found the Japan Discomate pressing of this album to be the go-to copy, but this is a close second.

My favorite track is, without a doubt, Dancing Queen. Can a single get any better?

Released in 1976, Arrival marks ABBA’s fourth studio album and one of their most celebrated works, firmly establishing their place as international pop icons. The Swedish quartet—Agnetha Fältskog, Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad—were at the height of their creativity and popularity during this period, and Arrival showcases their unmatched ability to blend captivating melodies, intricate harmonies, and emotional storytelling.

ABBA had already achieved success with hits like Waterloo and Mamma Mia, but Arrival took their artistry to new heights. The album is packed with tracks that have become timeless classics, and it stands out as a cohesive and ambitious project. While some pop albums of the era were content with catchy singles, Arrival demonstrated ABBA’s dedication to producing music that resonated across cultures and generations.

The Hits and Highlights

The most recognizable song on Arrival is undoubtedly “Dancing Queen,” which became ABBA’s first—and only—number-one hit in the United States. It’s a quintessential disco anthem, driven by a jubilant rhythm, lush string arrangements, and Agnetha and Anni-Frid’s soaring vocals. Few songs encapsulate the euphoric essence of the 1970s as perfectly as “Dancing Queen.”

Another standout track is “Knowing Me, Knowing You,” a bittersweet ballad about heartbreak and separation. Its emotive lyrics and hauntingly beautiful melody showcase ABBA’s ability to infuse pop music with genuine emotional depth. “Money, Money, Money” is another iconic track, offering a theatrical flair with its sharp piano riff and dramatic vocal delivery. The song paints a vivid picture of ambition and frustration, adding a layer of complexity to the album.

The title track, “Arrival,” is a serene instrumental piece that highlights Benny and Björn’s skill as composers. Its sweeping arrangement evokes a sense of exploration and discovery, making it a fitting conclusion to the album.

What Makes Arrival Unique

What sets Arrival apart is its versatility and ambition. ABBA explored various musical styles while maintaining their signature polished sound. From the disco vibes of “Dancing Queen” to the folk-inspired harmonies of “Fernando” (included in later editions of the album), the group demonstrated a remarkable range. The production quality was also groundbreaking for its time, with layered instrumentation and meticulous attention to detail that set new standards for pop music.

Additionally, Arrival marked the beginning of ABBA’s global dominance. The album topped charts worldwide, including in the UK, Australia, and several European countries. Its success helped cement their status as one of the biggest bands of the 1970s and paved the way for their future albums, like The Album and Voulez-Vous.

Legacy

Nearly five decades later, Arrival remains a testament to ABBA’s genius. The album’s blend of infectious melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and groundbreaking production has ensured its place in the pantheon of great pop records. It’s not just a nostalgic artifact but a timeless work that continues to inspire musicians and captivate listeners worldwide.

For fans of ABBA or anyone seeking a glimpse into the golden age of pop music, Arrival is an essential listen—an album that perfectly encapsulates the magic and artistry of a band at their peak.

i compared this to the us atlantic OG. i believe the bass/low end was very similar to the US. when i A/B both i couldnt tell the difference🤩

My copy has the matrix run out CDP 104 2 B15
Anyone else have this?

This is an absolute classic album i got this album for Christmas 1976 and i still have it

Diese Pressung gab es auch als Special Price Edition ohne Lyric-Sheet oder Poster sondern mit neutralen Inlett und Special Price Aufkleber

Dreadful remaster - though most recent ABBA vinyl editions are woeful due to the state of the master tapes. Grab an original Japan pressing from the 70s - way better.