Description
A-Ha – Hunting High And Low – 180 Gram Vinyl Record
Hunting High and Low is the debut studio album by the Norwegian synth-pop band A-ha, released in 1985. This album propelled the band to international stardom, largely due to the massive success of its lead single, “Take On Me.” The album stands as a quintessential example of mid-80s synth-pop, characterized by its melodic hooks, polished production, and innovative use of synthesizers and technology.
Hunting High and Low showcases a range of songs that highlight the band’s knack for crafting memorable pop tunes. The album blends synthesizer-based pop with elements of new wave, all carried by Morten Harket’s distinctive vocal range and style.
Key Tracks
“Take On Me” – Undoubtedly the album’s standout track, it became a global hit, famous not only for its catchy melody and soaring chorus but also for its groundbreaking music video featuring a blend of pencil-sketch animation and live-action. The song remains a defining track of the 1980s.
“The Sun Always Shines on T.V.” – Following “Take On Me,” this track also achieved substantial success. It features a dramatic opening, a strong melodic hook, and a more layered production, offering a darker contrast to the album’s more upbeat singles.
“Hunting High and Low” – The title track is a beautiful, slower-tempo song that showcases Harket’s ability to convey deep emotion, further highlighted by lush synthesizer textures.
“Train of Thought” – A more introspective song, it features introspective lyrics and a driving beat, showing the band’s versatility and ability to integrate more thoughtful content with pop sensibilities.
“Living a Boy’s Adventure Tale” – This track is noted for its emotive quality and lyrical depth, providing a more narrative-driven approach compared to the rest of the album.
The production of Hunting High and Low was handled by Tony Mansfield, and later by John Ratcliff with a-ha, reflecting a clean, precise approach typical of the era’s pop music. The use of synthesizers is sophisticated, complementing the vocal lines and adding to the overall atmospheric quality of the album.
Upon release, Hunting High and Low received favorable reviews and achieved impressive commercial success. It marked a-ha’s entry into the international scene, peaking at high positions on charts worldwide and earning various awards and nominations.
Over the years, the album has been regarded as a classic of the synth-pop genre, influencing many artists and bands that followed. Its combination of innovative music videos, strong songwriting, and distinctive musical style keeps it relevant and appreciated by new generations of listeners. The legacy of Hunting High and Low is evident in its enduring popularity and its influence on the development of pop music, making it a landmark album of the 1980s.
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
Track Listing
Take On Me
Train Of Thought
Hunting High And Low
The Blue Sky
Living A Boy’s Adventure Tale
The Sun Always Shines On T.V.
And You Tell Me
Love Is Reason
I Dream Myself Alive
Here I Stand And Face The Rain
