Definitive Collection (2CD)

ABBA: Bjorn Ulvaeus (vocals, guitar); Benny Anderson (vocals, keyboards); Anni-Frid Lyngstad, Agnetha Faltskog (vocals). Producers: Bjorn Ulvaeus, Benny Anderson Compilation producer: Marko Soderstrom Recorded between 1972 and 1982. Includes liner notes by Carl Magnus Palm. All tracks have been digitally remastered. Released to coincide with the arrival on Broadway of Mamma Mia!, (a musical based on the songs of Abba), THE DEFINITIVE COLLECTION packs two CDs with every single ever released by this Swedish guilty pleasure between 1972 and 1982. Chronologically arranged and expertly remastered, this package kicks off with the flower-power sentiments of "People Need Love" and "He Is Your Brother." These preceded the breakthrough "Waterloo" that won the 1974 Eurovision competition and proved to be Abba's springboard to international superstardom. From there, it's an infectious ride overflowing with hooks, harmonies and stellar arrangements that bubble over from much-loved songs like "Fernando," "Dancing Queen," "SOS," Take A Chance On Me," and "Winner Takes It All," chronicling Abba's move from Europop to impressive Wall-of-Sound flavored disco. Capped off with a 1974 remix of "Ring Ring" that's getting its American debut and a 1979 extended dance remix of "Voulez-Vous" that was never commercially available, THE DEFINITIVE COLLECTION is pure pop manna for die-hards and novices alike.