Voulez-Vous

After a string of international hits, ABBA had polished its trademark Eurodisco-cum-American pop sound to an almost blinding sheen. <i>Voulez-Vous</i> (1979) represents some of the last creative gleanings in this direction; subsequent releases by the Swedish foursome would betray more of a modern rock influence. If the formula is familiar here, it still delivers an exhilarating rush on tracks like “Angeleyes,” “Does Your Mother Know?” and “Kisses Of Fire.” A few unexpected twists are thrown in, like the sitar-like synths on “I Have A Dream” and the classical embellishments in “As Good As New.” Along with the breathlessly upbeat tunes are two standout midtempo numbers, the Spanish-flavored “Chiquitita” and the lightly-funky “If It Wasn’t For The Nights.” Agnetha and Frida achieve their typically delectable vocal blend, while Bjorn and Benny reaffirm their stature as pop master-craftsmen. <i>Voulez-Vous</i> has a certain over-ripeness to it, a sense that fresher ideas would be needed for the next project. But for those with an appetite for ABBA’s irresistible hooks and scintillating harmonies, this album is more than satisfying.