Björn Benny & Agnetha Frida (ABBA) - Ring Ring (2LP) - 45 RPM

"Ring Ring", the debut album by the Swedish pop group ABBA, originally credited to "Björn Benny & Agnetha Frida", is a fascinating glimpse into the early days of a band that would go on to become one of the most iconic acts in music history. Released in 1973, the album showcases the group's burgeoning talent and hints at the polished pop sound that would later define their career.

At the time of its release, ABBA had not yet adopted the name that would become synonymous with their music. Instead, the album was credited to the individual members: Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, Agnetha Fältskog, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad. This was a period of experimentation and discovery for the group, as they were still finding their collective voice and refining their style. "Ring Ring" captures this process beautifully, offering a mix of pop, folk, and rock influences that reflect the diverse musical backgrounds of its members.

The title track, "Ring Ring", is undoubtedly the standout song on the album. With its infectious melody, upbeat tempo, and clever lyrics, it set the stage for the group's future success. The song was originally submitted as Sweden's entry for the 1973 Eurovision Song Contest but failed to qualify. Despite this setback, "Ring Ring" became a hit in several European countries and established ABBA as a group to watch.

Other notable tracks on the album include "People Need Love", a charming duet that highlights the vocal interplay between Agnetha and Anni-Frid, and "He Is Your Brother", a song with a strong message of unity and togetherness. These tracks, along with others like "Nina, Pretty Ballerina" and "Love Isn't Easy (But It Sure Is Hard Enough)", showcase the group's knack for crafting catchy melodies and memorable hooks.

The production on "Ring Ring" is a testament to the talents of Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, who co-wrote most of the songs and played a significant role in shaping the album's sound. Their collaboration with Stig Anderson, who contributed lyrics and served as the group's manager, was instrumental in the album's creation. While the production lacks the polish and sophistication of later ABBA albums, it has a raw, unfiltered quality that adds to its charm.

Listening to "Ring Ring" today, it's fascinating to hear the early seeds of what would become the ABBA sound. The harmonies, the interplay between Agnetha and Anni-Frid's voices, and the infectious energy of the music are all present, albeit in a more embryonic form. The album may not have the same level of cohesion or consistency as their later work, but it offers a unique insight into the band's evolution.

"Ring Ring" was not initially released in all markets, and its reception varied across countries. In Sweden, it was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts and solidifying the group's popularity. However, it wasn't until the release of "Waterloo" the following year that ABBA achieved international fame. In retrospect, "Ring Ring" can be seen as the foundation upon which their later success was built.

For fans of ABBA, "Ring Ring" is a must-listen. It provides a window into the early days of the group and showcases their potential even before they became global superstars. While it may not have the same level of polish or the iconic hits of their later albums, it is a charming and enjoyable record that deserves recognition in its own right. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to ABBA's music, "Ring Ring" is a delightful journey into the origins of one of pop music's greatest bands.