Information on the remastered and expanded versions of their debut album, Hunting High And Low.
The packaging for the deluxe edition was as thoughtfully crafted as the music within. Photographed by Knut Bry, the artwork features the striking, moody imagery synonymous with a-ha's aesthetic during this period. The reissue's art direction and design were led by Jeri Heiden for Smog Design, maintaining a visual consistency that respects the original album's identity while giving it a fresh, deluxe feel for its 2010 release.
The expanded edition of completely dismantles the misconception that a-ha was just a superficial pop band. By highlighting the stark contrast between their raw home demos and polished studio tracks, this release preserves a pivotal moment where three young musicians fought for their artistic integrity—and won. It remains an essential listen for anyone tracking the evolution of alternative pop music.
The shimmering, moody synth textures in "The Swing of Things" and the title track are more defined, providing a richer listening experience.
Final Verdict: An Essential Piece of Alternative Pop History
The city had learned to sleep with one eye open. Neon sighed against wet cobblestones; the tram bells echoed like distant judgments. Above the market, a holographic billboard looped an old ad for a soft drink—its colors too bright for anything that had lived through the EMP. In the alleys, citizens traded memories the way their grandparents once traded stamps: carefully, in envelopes, with quiet reverence.