ABBA - Super Trouper (LP) - VG+/VG+

"Super Trouper," ABBA's seventh studio album, released in 1980, stands as a testament to the Swedish quartet's enduring appeal and musical evolution. Coming at a time when the group's personal lives were becoming increasingly complex, with both of the band's couples divorced or in the process of divorcing, the album reflects a matured ABBA, delving into deeper emotional territories while maintaining their signature pop brilliance.

The title track, "Super Trouper," illuminates the album with its catchy melody and uplifting chorus, despite its lyrics that hint at the loneliness and weariness of life on the road. The song's bright, engaging sound contrasts with the introspective content, showcasing ABBA's ability to blend pop perfection with meaningful storytelling.

"The Winner Takes It All," arguably one of ABBA's most iconic and emotionally charged songs, stands out as a highlight of the album. With Agnetha Fältskog's lead vocals poignantly conveying the pain of a breakup, the song is often interpreted as reflecting her divorce from fellow band member Björn Ulvaeus, although Ulvaeus has stated that while the song is about divorce, it isn't autobiographical. The track's sophisticated arrangement, combining classical instrumentation with pop sensibilities, exemplifies the band's musical maturity and depth.

"Lay All Your Love on Me," with its disco-infused beats and memorable hooks, represents ABBA's ability to create danceable tracks that also possess a certain depth, both musically and lyrically. The song's innovative use of synthesizers and vocal layers demonstrates the group's ongoing experimentation with new sounds and production techniques.

The album also explores various musical styles, from the rock-tinged "On and On and On" to the more reflective and melancholic "Happy New Year," which has since become a seasonal classic. These tracks, along with the rest of the album, showcase ABBA's diverse musical range and their ability to craft songs that resonate with listeners across different moods and genres.

"Super Trouper" was produced by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, with their meticulous attention to detail evident in the album's polished sound and intricate arrangements. The production quality highlights the band's harmonies and the lush instrumentation, ensuring that each song is both sonically rich and emotionally compelling.

Critically, "Super Trouper" was well-received, with many praising the album's sophisticated pop craftsmanship and the emotional depth of its songs. The album's exploration of more mature themes, combined with ABBA's pop expertise, was seen as a significant evolution in the band's sound and lyrical approach.

Commercially, "Super Trouper" was a massive success, topping charts worldwide and solidifying ABBA's status as one of the world's leading pop acts. The album's enduring appeal is evidenced by its continued popularity, with tracks like "The Winner Takes It All" and "Super Trouper" remaining staples of the band's extensive catalog.

In retrospect, "Super Trouper" is celebrated as one of ABBA's finest works, capturing the band at a pivotal moment in their career. The album's blend of joyous pop and introspective lyrics, coupled with the group's unmistakable melodies and harmonies, makes it a landmark release in the ABBA discography and a highlight of the pop music landscape of the early '80s.