ABBA's Most Underrated Songs #35-31. Continues tomorrow.

Caffé Latté presents

50 UNDERRATED

ABBA

TRACKS

We are all familiar with the Swedish group’s biggest hits like “Dancing Queen”, “Mamma Mia”, “Fernando” and “Waterloo”. This countdown delves deeper into the ABBA catalogue to offer 50 other songs that also deserve attention. With the recent announcement of new ABBA songs coming after a wait of over 3 decades and the impending sequel to the  ‘Mamma Mia’ film, Caffé Latté celebrates the music of Bjorn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, Agnetha Faltskog and Anni-Frid Lyngstad…

o o o o

35

DANCE

(WHILE THE MUSIC STILL GOES ON)

This track from the 'Waterloo' album features all 4 members tackling vocal duties. "Dance (While The Music Still Goes On)" was recorded on September 24, 1973. The song's sound was inspired by legendary producer Phil Spector's Wall Of Sound discs.

34

ANDANTE, ANDANTE

Frida's vocal takes the spotlight on this measured  track from 'Super Trouper'. The song was cut early in the recording sessions. Musical references are used as metaphors for a carnal union. Throughout, the mood retains subtlety, an example of Bjorn's growth as a lyricist.

33

I AM THE CITY

This track was cut in mid-1982 for what was to be the follow-up to 'The Visitors' album. It finds Agnetha and Frida sharing lead vocals. The song had remained unreleased for decades but was finally unearthed for the 'More ABBA Gold- More ABBA Hits' compilation CD.

32

WHY DID IT HAVE TO BE ME

Benny and Bjorn tried a few approaches for this track. Originally, it drew inspiration from Fats Domino. It incorporated elements of what became the track "Happy Hawaii". As the 'Arrival' album neared completion, the song featured only the 2 female members on vocals. Ultimately, "Why Did It Have To Be Me" included Bjorn's voice too.

31

THE VISITORS

The title track from what became ABBA's final studio album release reflects on the Cold War. Bjorn's writing was moving towards more serious themes. Frida delivers the lead vocal. Musically, it hints at the directions ABBA may have pursued had the group continued recording beyond the next few months.