Released in 1985, a-ha’s debut album, Hunting High And Low, marked the arrival of one of the most influential synth-pop new wave bands of the 80s. Featuring a rich tapestry of melodic hooks, passionate lyrics, and a lush production, Hunting High And Low not only captured the zeitgeist but is a remarkably cohesive debut; one that has a timeless appeal.
Part of the album’s success is due to the song selection for Hunting High And Low plays akin to a greatest hits release. Most casual fans would be more than happy to attain this record, along with their compilation Headlines And Deadlines, and call it a day. Some may even call them a one-hit wonder, as it pertains to the album’s release, but a-ha have gone on to release some severely underrated and notable music. However, no post-debut release would resonate with music lovers as much as this legendary debut has.
Also appealing is the visual aspects of the album’s cover art. Yes, it is indicative of the era, particularly regarding clothing and hairstyles, but renowned photographer Just Loomis’ composition ensured it would be a standout in record stores and within one’s music collection for decades to come.
Regarding the sonic prowess of this classic release, the recording, mix, and mastering are exceptional and are amongst the greatest in all of recorded music history; particularly within the new wave and synth-pop genres. As it relates to the 2015 Remastered Hi-Res Lossless Apple Music stream, an Apple Digital Master, it’s exquisite with a full-bodied and detailed sonic presentation that ensures every musical element is clearly presented within the chosen mix. Remastering is at times looked down upon, even here at Subjective Sounds, but you know when an album just sounds right and in this case, the Apple Music stream doesn’t disappoint. It’s so good that I don’t feel compelled to pick up a physical release, for sonically I don’t feel there is any improvement to be achieved.
Take On Me is an ideal album opener and is, arguably, a-ha’s most iconic track; a dazzling combination of pulsating synths, infectious hooks, and some incredible vocal performances. The song’s driving energy perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the mid-80s and, ultimately, sets the tone for the entire album.
Train Of Thought introduces a slightly darker tone to a-ha’s dynamic instrumentation, but the song’s sense of urgency grabs your attention and doesn’t let go until the very last note has been played. Morten Harket’s vocal delivery is particularly noteworthy for its understated, yet emotive, thereby adding perfectly to the song’s overall style.
Hunting High And Low is a quintessential title track for this sweeping ballad is stunning. Harket's vocal range and emotional intensity will touch your soul as the orchestral arrangement builds the song’s dramatic atmosphere; one that will stay with you long after the album has ended.
The Blue Sky returns the album to a-ha’s core synth-pop styling and while this upbeat breezy number is a solid tune, it’s not the standout that the previous songs have been.
Living A Boy’s Adventure Tale is a magnificent tune with a mix of whimsy and melancholy. Every musical aspect, from the unconventional structure and dreamlike quality, to the ethereal synth layers and emotive vocals, is perfectly presented and in many respects, Living A Boy’s Adventure Tale is so good that it could be considered the very best song a-ha ever recorded. It honestly surprises me that it wasn’t considered for a single, it’s that good!
The Sun Always Shines On T.V. is one of my favourite songs on the album and while it’s borderline campy, as some of a-ha’s music is, the lush orchestration and powerful synth elements, that build to the addictively good crescendo, are simply incredible and showcase just how talented a-ha were from the get-go.
And You Tell Me is a brief minimalist interlude. While it serves more as a palate cleanser than a fully-fledged song, it adds a touch of intimacy to the album’s bolder soundscape.
Love Is Reason is a more conventional pop song featuring a bright melody and rhythmic energy that will see you toe-tapping and head-bopping along.
I Dream Myself Alive is a solid energetic number and while its position as an album-only tune isn’t in question, it also isn’t anything to write home about as it lacks a certain level of musical magic that has been heard throughout the rest of this debut.
Here I Stand And Face The Rain closes the album on somewhat of a haunting note, particularly as it pertains to the song’s unique opening. Nevertheless, Here I Stand And Face The Rain is the perfect bookend to the album as it permits reflection of the music you’ve just heard whilst simultaneously compelling you to listen to the album again.
Hunting High And Low is a remarkably cohesive debut release that balances commercial appeal with artistic depth. Its mix of high-energy synth-pop anthems and introspective ballads demonstrates a-ha’s versatility and ambitions; traits that have resulted in not only superstardom and timeless appeal, but characteristics that helped the album, and band, to define the sound of 1980s pop music.