Abba - The Complete Studio Recordings (DVD, 2005, Limited Edition Box Set)

The Swedish Pop-Rock-Dance music group named "Abba" consists of 4 of the most successful musicians: Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, Agnetha Fältskog, & Anni-Frid Lyngstad.

This is the Limited Edition Box Set of 2 DVD volumes. These 2 volumes include ALL of the promotional videos Abba ever made. "The History", a documentary that chronicles the rise of one of pop music's campiest groups, is included. Also included are 5 previously unreleased songs Abba performed on the Dick Cavett Show.

When many of these recordings were made they were called "promo clips." The term "music video" hadn't been invented. This collection of clips are from the group's early development throughout their later years. As they progressed, the cinematography became more complex as did the special effects.

This assortment of 35 music videos spans Abba's career from 1974's "Waterloo" to 1982's "Under Attack." What's been preserved is a marvelous collection of music & images that focuses mainly on the 1970's era of Abba's career.

Almost all of the videos were directed by Lasse Hallström. With Abba, Hallström crafted images of the group that reflect their music presenting them as friends, lovers & superb entertainers.

While mostof these promo clips are performances of Abba's music, eventually Hallström began to incorporate more story-telling devices into them. As as result, Abba & Hallström became pioneers in the creation of "music videos."

It's interesting to watch how Abba evolves from 1 video to the other. They do so through subtly changing the sound of their music or swtiching their costume styles, for example. The level of visual & sound sophistication increases with each Abba album & video~