: A Paul Waaktaar-Savoy standout that leans into a slightly more rhythmic, jazzy noir vibe, showcasing the band’s ability to experiment within a sophisticated pop framework.
The title True North is both a geographic marker and a metaphor for a moral compass. The album touches heavily on , reflecting the band’s concern for the melting Arctic ice and the relationship between humanity and nature. It feels like an "elder statesman" record—reflective, slightly melancholic, but fundamentally appreciative of the world's beauty. : A Paul Waaktaar-Savoy standout that leans into
Released in late 2022, is not just a-ha's 11th studio album; it is a sprawling, cinematic letter to the Arctic. Moving away from the synth-pop textures that defined their 80s peak, the band—Morten Harket, Magne Furuholmen, and Paul Waaktaar-Savoy—delivers a soul-stirring orchestral project recorded in Bodø, Norway, 90 miles above the Arctic Circle. 1. A Cinematic Concept it is a sprawling
The album is split almost equally between Magne’s and Paul’s compositions, creating a balanced dialogue between their two distinct songwriting styles: the band—Morten Harket
: While Magne and Paul’s signature melodies remain, they are draped in lush orchestral arrangements. It evokes the spirit of Hunting High and Low but matured—replacing the "plastic" sheen of the 80s with the wood and wire of a full orchestra.
: A Magne-penned opener that sets a supportive, almost spiritual tone. It’s a song about commitment and showing up for one another in dark times.