Unlike other top international acts, Abba made very few live appearances, with the 1977 tour of Europe and Australia and the 1979 tour of North America and Europe cited as their only major treks round the globe.  It is the latter that was recorded and documented into a film, which captures the four Swedes on stage at the peak of their fame.  Filmed on the road in America in September and October 1979, the DVD's main feature is a live performance at Wembley Arena, London in November.

Also included in this bulging package are bonus tracks, unreleased live footage plus interviews the obligatory trailer (in this case for Mamma Mia) and picture gallery.  Quite a hefty amount to digest then.

One alarming fact that hits you immediately is the intriguing choice of fashion especially Björn in his super-hero tight-fitting spandex cat-suit with boots - deliriously happy and completely oblivious.  Agnetha looks stunning (and from what I hear, nothing's changed there) but what was he thinking?!  At least bearded Benny took the safe route and stuck to a satin shirt, tie and trousers.

Just to remind you, this was 1979 and although the concert is presented in 5.1 surround sound, the picture quality can only be enhanced to a certain degree and therefore appears quite dated.  However, compared to how stupendous Abba sound live in an arena (without the cheating methods some performers rely on these days), this is a minor flaw in a recording that isn't only nostalglic but priceless.  After so long, Abba's songs still sound sensational but a numb bum is in order if you can watch it all the way through.
(3½/5)

Release Date: 29 March 2004

Abba In Concert