Media - English

Recent interviews with Morten in the Norwegian press

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 19:30:00 GMT

2008-09-26

Excerpt from the Henne interview (June 2008):

- What is a song?

- A quality song has an identity, a spirit. It cannot be compared to anything else. I have to open up and get into the listening mode to embrace music. This is how I experience it. The fact that I’ve written a song doesn’t fill me with pride because I don’t feel that it’s something of my own doing. But I can be proud on behalf of the song and the way I’ve managed to interpret it. You can not measure how long it takes for a song to move from non-existence into existence, that is to say, from your not being aware of it to being aware. This is the moment of creation when your mind’s taking it in and can send it further. For me, it probably gives an inkling of how everything is brought to life. Our whole world has taken a leap from not being to being.

- What do you want your songs to tell us?

- They are not mine. All human communication is carried out via various types of language. From the moment you are born you have a natural predisposition for music, just like for the human touch. It’s common in all of us.

(...)

- Is there anything you lack in your life?

- Not necessarily in my private life. What I miss is a sense of community. Who is a typical Norwegian? Why should we in particular be entitled to administer this land in the future? I believe we must deserve it.

- Don’t we?

- No. How can we allow ourselves to simply exist? I have a lot of faith in people’s potential. Whatever talents I have, I must first and foremost see and recognize them. And I think it’s true for many others. In our heart of hearts we know much more than we believe we do. We must dare let go of a number of things to be able to take in this knowledge.

- And I assume you mean “things” by “things” in this context?

- Yes. The common denominator is the money system that we all deal with. This is quite a basic system of values if you look at how much valuable isn’t part of the bill. It’s the cutting down, transportation and processing of an oak tree that is measured in money today, not what it takes nature to produce it. The same goes for the value of a good kindergarten, good teachers and so on. What matters more to you than how your child is doing? To breathe clean air, and to ensure that your child will breathe clean air in the future, you must do without certain things. And by this I mean things.

Excerpt from the Mann interview (June 2008):

- Are you self-centered?

- To quote Håvard Rem…After a long conversation over dinner in Malibu, Tim Hunter (light designer who has worked, among others, for Madonna) said, “I don’t think I’ve ever met an artist who is less ego-minded than you.” To which Håvard replied dryly, “Morten’s ego is so huge that you can’t see it.” I suppose that Håvard is closer to the truth (laughter).

- What about quarrelsome?

- Not at all. But most people would disagree with this completely. I, on the other hand, would point out that I’m solutions-oriented but to the majority my way of reaching a solution seems unnecessary and complicating, while I see it as absolutely essential. I’m willing to understand the mechanisms behind things. People will say, “Why can’t you just answer the question?” Well, that’s what I’m in the middle of doing but you don’t care to hear me out. To be able to answer, I first have to find out if we’re talking about the same thing. If not, the question itself becomes meaningless and, consequently, the answer as well.

- What would you say to those calling you an excessively pompous philosopher?

- Actually, it is rather uninteresting since they know precious little what’re making statements about. To be more precise, nothing. Not a thing I’ve said was in fact empty talk. Nothing. On the contrary, it’s an attempt to uncover exciting connections and possible misconceptions. This is a part of a dissection, and because it’s only a part, added to by the fact that one isn’t able to follow the whole line of thought, one calls it hazy. But I’m ready to meet this challenge with great pleasure any day. A forum where you can discuss proper questions thoroughly. Thinking about it puts me in a good mood.

- So you don’t feel fed up with parodies either?

- No, that’s just positive. A parody is one of the compliments I allow myself to accept. It’s best when it’s sheer mockery. In reality, it’s nevertheless a compliment.

Excerpt from the No interview (June 2008):

- I must admit that there have been a lot of interviews over the years. Do you do them on autopilot?

- No, not at all. That would show a lack of respect for the format. I don’t like things without a point to them. It’s to do with being aware of the qualities in life. The food you eat, the time you have available. It concerns everything. And for me, doing an interview without a goal makes no sense whatsoever. But of course, that depends on how much space different media have for this.

- I’d like to talk about music. You’re about to release a new album and have chosen an old song by the now disbanded Oslo band Locomotives as your first single. Of all songs in the whole world?

- Yes, exactly. That’s the way it is. Of all girls in the whole world, too. It’s the same there. And of all pop stars in the whole world, why did she choose me? Put simply, the song hooked me because I got hooked on that gang when I ran into them. Locomotives. That was in the street one night in Trondheim. In 1994.

- How does Morten Harket run into Locomotives one night in a Trondheim street in 1994? That makes me wonder…

- Well, I was on the way home. It was late. I was at a relatively early stage when it came to preparing my first solo record. I was also in the process of searching as a songwriter. So that’s when I met them. They were clearly high, but only on the things they were working with…

- He-he…

- It was a kind of a boyish, intense fervour.

- That reminded you of yourself?

- Yes, absolutely. It was a kick! This is a state I see as indispensable to find a sort of energy and the right motivation. This enthusiasm comes from the feeling that possibilities are within reach. So I, for my own sake as well, invited them into the studio where they played the song that was to become “Movies”. At once, I thought that it was my song – I want a song like that! Then I drove right home and composed “A Kind Of Christmas Card”. As an answer of sorts. Now finally, after all this time – ten years have passed since I was ready – it feels natural to record it.

- Why so long?

- I opted for ten years with a-ha instead as we received clear signals that we should go for another round. My mind wasn’t on that at all, I had no need for it, really. Either emotionally or in any other way. But out of true respect for what the band could be I gave it a try. I just did it. I wasn’t convinced that I should, I just did it.

- Do you regret it?

- I cannot regret such an interesting and great time that these years have been for the band, and I don’t. But at the same time I’ve lived with a nagging sense of not fulfilling this other reality that’s been waiting for me – and both parts are true.

- Magne Furuholmen has said somewhere that you expertly make sure the last word is yours. Are you enjoying the role as a solo artist in full control?

- Me? I’m no expert as far as a-ha is concerned. I mean it. In a-ha I don’t care to press my point until I impose what I believe we should do on the others. It’s other forces that do it. I accept it, I’m just an important string.

- What about the much-publicised creative frictions between you guys?

- The source of those frictions is strong willpower. In fact, they aren’t particularly creative or constructive. It’s a conflict of stubborn wills. If these confrontations could actually lead to fruitful clashes, that’d be truly thrilling. And we’re actually in a position now where it’s more plausible than before. This little factor makes the idea of doing a-ha again at some point appealing.

- What was your first memorable encounter with music? Can it be equaled to your first infatuation? Those things usually go very deep…

- He-he…Now that’s really big.

- Oh damn…

- But I believe that’s fascinating! Every sense impression is just in fact an experience of yourself. The point is what it takes to trigger it from the outside. What it is that corrupts and distorts the pure ideas inside of us. In a way, we accept that. A teenager can watch a B-movie and be overwhelmed, and surely, that feeling is genuine! It definitely gets to be harder and harder for those who have been through a lot. Therein lies the most interesting attack on a music critic as well, in a way.

- Yes?

- I wouldn’t automatically say that a music critic is better equipped to assess an album than that a prostitute is best suited to understand love and what it involves. Doing his job, a critic must really be on his guard. Søren Kierkegaard says somewhere that “while the grass is growing, the observer dies”. You cannot take life apart through analysis. Life is what it is in itself.

Excerpt from the Mat og Helse interview (August 2008):

- How do you protect yourself against the press?

- I often forget it myself but when you speak to a journalist, you must keep in mind that this person isn’t someone you’re having a conversation with. You’re talking to the editorial board, those who present your statements from the paper’s or channel’s standpoint. You think they’re there for the cause, while in fact they’re interested in sales. (…) On top of this, you should remember that you’re never more that one of the ingredients of the cake they’re baking, no matter what the medium is. It’s obvious but easy to forget along the way.

- So why do you say yes to such meetings?

- I don’t! If you just knew how many requests I get, even though it comes in waves. Only exceptions to this rule get published. I do it because I’m an artist with an audience that I’m already in a dialogue with. I also do it as a member of the public – if I think it’s natural.

(...)

- How do you protect your privacy now?

- Yes, this is what upsets me; I’ve been using a lot of energy to deal with this. I guess an important element is that I’ve never been especially hungry for this sort of attention but taken it as something self-evident. At the beginning it awoke my curiosity but there are limits to how interesting it is in itself – for the one who’s subjected to it – yet it’s extremely interesting as a psychological phenomenon.

- How does one learn to handle success and the limelight?

- There’s a fine line of distinction between success and crucifixion. And you know, the fame bit itself has the same primal roots in society, be it public debunking or glorifying. But what boy feels comfortable when his mother extols him in front of other boys? Then, there’s the other side: when you’ve got under someone’s skin with what you do, you establish a contact that’s always unique, even though it could turn into something ordinary.

Morten and Magne In The Media

Tue, 13 May 2008 20:05:00 GMT

2008-05-13

In the past two weeks, both Morten and Magne were prominent in the Norwegian press. Here are some highlights to keep you up to date.

Morten Harket in the Media

Song Samples

Universal Norway has added some song clips from Morten's upcoming album, Letter from Egypt. You can listen to them here.

Backstage Webisodes

Beginning today, there will be a new backstage video posted on Morten's MySpace site each day until May 19, when Letter from Egypt will be released.

Interview with Morten

There was a long interview with Morten in Dagbladet on May 3. Starting with a discussion of physical mass, and including topics such as his diet, his early interest in music, and the long pause between his last solo album, Wild Seed and Letter from Egypt.

Ask Morten a question!

Morten will do a live webchat with VG on Monday, May 19 at 12:00. Submit your questions via the form here.

Translation:
Tittel = title of your question
Spørsmål = your question
Navn = your name

Send spørsmål = send your question
Tøm skjema = clear form

Vote for Morten

Vote for Morten on P4.no!

(you can vote once per day)

Vote for Morten on German Radio SWR3:

Click on "abstimmen" right next to Mortens name on No. 5
Then you have to type the code "bitte obigen code hier eintragen" which is shown to you
Click on "abschicken"
If everything went well you can see "zurück zur charts übersicht"

Morten Article on VG Nett

On Rockman's Musikkblog, you can find an extensive article, in English, about Morten and his solo career.

Magne F in the Media

‘FAGMEN'
Magne played three unannounced, free concerts at Palace Grill in Oslo on May 5, 6 and 7. The set list included songs from Magne's solo albums a dot of black in the blue of your bliss and Past Perfect Future Tense, as well as two of Magne's songs from a-ha's Analogue album.

The concerts were a kind of rehearsal for the upcoming concerts at Rockefeller Music Hall in Oslo and Royal Albert Hall in London. The setlist changed each night, and over the course of three days the audience grew to capacity in the small Palace Grill.

a-ha in the media - August 2007 (Part 1)

Tue, 16 Oct 2007 15:49:00 GMT

2007-10-16

This month featured a new album from Savoy "Savoy Songbook", and two a-ha gigs in Norway, the first Norway gigs since last August. Read on for a summary of the main interviews, press, and performance summaries for this month.

Part 1 of this media archive focuses on the release of "Savoy Songbook Vol. 1" and Savoy in the media.

Savoy Songbook Vol. 1 released
Summertime Savoy
Savoy on Oslo TV
Savoy interviewed on various Norwegian radio shows
Savoy interview in Kamille magazine
Savoy article on NRK
VG online chat
Savoy Songbook Vol. 1 reviews
Savoy working on their next album
Interview with Lauren Waaktaar-Savoy in Elle magazine

Savoy Songbook Vol. 1 released
2007-08-06 - Norway

On August 6, the much anticipated ‘Savoy Songbook Vol. 1' double CD was released in Norway.

You can purchase this CD from the vendors listed here

For pre-release information, the track list, and reviews of the first single, ‘Karma Boomerang' (released April 13), see this article

For reviews of the album, see the articles in Part 1 of this month's media archive.

In its first week, the album entered the Norwegian album chart at number 7.

Additional chart information:
Week of September 2: ‘Best Western Beauty' is number 1 on Bodø's Radio 3
Week of September 11: ‘Savoy Songbook Vol. 1' at number 21, in its fifth week of release

Links:
Savoy myspace site
Radio 3 Bodø's charts
VG charts

Videos:
TV ad for ‘Savoy Songbook Vol. 1'

Translation of the spoken word in the ad: Savoy sum up an exciting and comprehensive career, after 12 years and five albums! "Savoy Songbook Vol. 1" - a total of 24 impressive songs, including 3 new tracks and 7 reworked versions of old favorites. Available anywhere music is being sold!

Summertime Savoy
2007-08-07 - (Web; Aftenposten.no; Norway)

Following the release of Savoy's ‘Savoy Songbook Vol. 1', Aftenposten ran an interview with Savoy. Here is an excerpt from the interview:

It could have been tempting to say that Savoy's summer album is an impossibility. The band behind songs like ‘Rain' and ‘Lackluster Me' has, for ‘Savoy Songbook Vol. 1', not just recorded songs like, well, ‘Rain' and ‘Lackluster Me' over again, in new and tighter versions, but they have also increased the tempo and written songs that don't go along at half tempo.

Lauren tells us that she has always been fighting for the Savoy songs to be faster:

Interviewer: Then you must have endured some defeats?

Lauren: "I know! But that's how it's always been with Paul. He writes ballads, and then others have to convince him to increase the tempo. That's what happened with a lot of the a-ha songs as well. ‘The Sun Always Shines On T.V.', for example, started as a ballad."

Paul says that he would have liked to spend more time on Savoy, that a-ha has always been there as an entity, and that he hopes to be more of a Savoy-man during this coming autumn.

Photo credit: Marlen Kihle/Aftenposten

Links:
Aftenposten

Savoy on Oslo TV
2007-08-08 - (TV, Norway)

Paul and Lauren appeared as guests in the studio on Oslo TV.

Savoy interviewed on various Norwegian radio shows
2007-08-09 - (Radio; NRK P3, SAAB Kanal 24, P4 Sommer; Norway)

Savoy made several appearances on various Norwegian radio shows today: NRK P3morgen, SAAB Kanal 24, and P4 Sommer.

On the P3morgen radio show on NRK P3, they spoke about their new release "Savoy Songbook Vol. 1". As well, the new single ‘Best Western Beauty' was played. During the interview, Paul and Lauren described their new release. "We chose our faves. The album is two CDs: one is a best of and one is a bonus. We chose the best songs...and we also have three new songs", says Lauren. Regarding their preferences, "I always want the gloom and doom", says Paul. "I always want the uptempos", adds Lauren.

Links:
To download the P3morgen interview, click here

Savoy interview in Kamille magazine
2007-08 - (Magazine; Norway)

Paul and Lauren are featured in Kamille magazine (Issue 16, 2007). You can read part of the interview at the link below (in Norwegian).

Links:
Kamille

Savoy article on NRK
2007-08-13 - (Web; NRK; Norway)

An article about Savoy appeared on NRK.no. You can read the article "Gift med musikken" at the link below.

Photo credit: Jarl Fr. Erichsen/Scanpix

Links:
NRK

VG online chat
2007-08-09 - (Web; VG.no; Norway)

Savoy participated in an online chat on VG.no. You can read the transcript of the chat at the link below. Here is one response, regarding their "Savoy Songbook Vol. 1".

"We recorded about 18 songs at Loho studios in NYC. We took the songs that we thought worked the best."

"The whole period of working in Loho was the best period. Just being in such a cool place and playing live is a very exciting process. The songs could be twisted around at the spur of the moment."

"Paul's favorite is ‘Lackluster Me' or ‘Whalebone' with the new chorus. Lauren's favorite song is one of the new ones: ‘Best Western Beauty'."

Links:
Chat translation

Savoy Songbook Vol. 1 reviews
2007-08 - (Web and print; Rana Blad, Varden, Aftenposten, Dagnavisen, VG, Bergensavisen, Adresseavisen, Fredriksstad Blad, Østlendingen, Dagbladet; Norway)

Reviews of Savoy's new album have appeared in the Norwegian media. Here is an excerpt of some of the reviews.

Links to these reviews, as well as additional reviews, are included below.

Rana Blad (paper version)
Rating: 5 out of 6

Savoy has been a studio band, with five albums released so far. Here comes the summary.
But that's not exactly what it is, either. This is because Paul Waaktaar-Savoy, Lauren Savoy and Frode Unneland have re-recorded some of the previously released songs, live in the studio. This is excellent and durable pop music worth owning.

Review by Rune Slyngstad

Varden
Rating: 4 out of 6

Enjoyable songbook
About time to release a "best of" collection?
"Yes", they thought. One CD includes the lovely ‘Velvet', with which they had their breakthrough. A lot of great pop-rock and good melodies.
We're left with a very special double CD. But it works, it absolutely works. The 2007 versions are of a very good standard, perhaps with a bit more adult pop-sound, but they are both catchy and pleasant to listen to.

Review by Helge Ottesen

Dagnavisen
Rating: 3 out of 6:

This collection shows Paul Waaktaar-Savoy's greatness as a songwriter: ‘Star', ‘Tears From a Stone', and especially ‘Velvet', Savoy's very first single and still their best song.

Review by Bernt Erik Pedersen

VG
Rating: 4 out of 6

Paul and Lauren Waaktaar-Savoy are sort of "our" Paul and Linda McCartney. Musicians who enjoy something so rare-in life in general, not to mention the music business-as a long-lasting, happy marriage and a rewarding, creative collaboration.

CD 2 still shows that their best moments are both stronger and more varied than one might think at first.

Review by Morten Ståle Nilsen

Bergensavisen
Rating: 4 out of 6

The double album is a nice introduction to Savoy's song universe. The married couple Waaktaar are capable of making good songs.

Review by Frank Johnsen

Adresseavisen
Rating: 5 out of 6

Paul Waaktaar-Savoy is a gifted pop-songwriter, especially with the melodies, and there are several pearls in this heap. The highlights are either so good that they fit the smaller and more reckless sound, or they sound so different in format that you deliberately can avoid thinking of Norway's biggest pop band. Therein lay the good reasons to stay indoors and listen to Savoy.

Highlights: ‘Reasons To Stay Indoors' and ‘Velvet'.

Review by Terje Eidsvåg

Fredriksstad Blad
Rating: 5 out of 6

Creativity which has always been one of Savoy's trademarks, couldn't be undermined this time, either. One of the two discs includes re-recorded versions of the "old, good ones", done live in the studio. And in my ears, this "new-old" pop music sounds both potent and fresh.

Review by Jan-Kåre Fjeld

Østlendingen
Rating: 4 out of 6

It's hard to say something bad about Paul Waaktaar-Savoy and his wife's very catchy form of pop music. I feel that Paul is at his very best when he writes songs for a-ha.
Yes, this is still a great collection of pop music-unless you already have Savoy's five albums on your shelf.

Review by Per Kristian Hansen

Dagbladet
Rating: 4 out of 6

The ten tracks on the first CD has a similar musical expression. All the songs are set up with lavish arrangements, big rooms with simple furnishings. They often consist of acoustic guitars and distinct drumming, but surrounded by deep walls of sound, created by keyboards, synths, choir, and vocal echo. The new songs are the already released single ‘Karma Boomerang', ‘Best Western Beauty', and ‘Barefoot in a Denim Jacket'. They fit well together with newly arranged, but well-known, Savoy-songs like ‘Star', ‘Reasons to Stay Indoors', and ‘Lackluster Me'.

The second CD reminds us that Savoy originally were more energetic and daring than they are in 2007.

Review by Fredrik Wandrup

Links:
F-B.no
Oslopuls.no
Dagsavisen.no
Dagbladet.no
Kulturo.no
VG.no
Varden.no
Tromsoby.no
Adressa.no
RB.no
BT.no
Moss-Avis.no
Helgeland-Arbeiderblad.no
Tronderavisa.no
Resonance-Online.com
Universitas.no

Savoy working on their next album
2007-08-27 - (Web; Bergensavisen.no)

Bergensavisen reported that Lauren and Frode from Savoy have started work on the next album in Bergen, without Paul.

Here is an excerpt from the article:

Lauren Waaktaar-Savoy and Frode Unneland started the recording of a new Savoy album on Thursday, just recently after the last Savoy album was released.

"A lot of people think that we just record an album every five years without doing much in the meantime, but we actually work a lot.

Only two songs are ready and no release date has been set.

When asked why they chose to record in Bergen, Lauren said, "Because there are some good producers here". Lauren is referring to Bjørn Ivar Tysse, a former member of Chocolate Overdose and an old friend of Unneland.

"We want to try new methods, normally we're in our studio and working with Paul. He's involved in the process this time as well, but from a distance", Lauren says.

"I'm trying to make the music more up-beat", Lauren adds.

So far, she has written all the material for the new album, but points out that it's a work in progress.

Lauren Waaktaar-Savoy, Bjørn Ivar Tysse, and Frode Unneland
Photo credit: Camilla Smistad Tofterå/Bergensavisen

Link:
BA.no

Interview with Lauren Waaktaar-Savoy in Elle magazine
2007-08-27 - (Web; Elle.no; Norway)

Elle magazine published an interview with Lauren about her taste in music. Here is an excerpt of the interview:

Lauren Savoy's favorites

Photo credit: Fredrik Asbjørnsen

Best song for driving:
Lauren: Arcade Fire's ‘Keep the Car Running'. I was just in Arizona, and my husband had to listen to the album over and over throughout the entire seven-hour drive. The result was that we got lost.

For inspiration:
Lauren: The songs that Paul is working on at any time. I am a competitive person, and it's impossible to beat him.

A song that makes me happy:
Lauren: ‘More than a Feeling' by the band Boston. I am from Boston myself, and that song reminds me of my adolescence. And I also get happy, although in a bittersweet way, every time I hear a-ha's ‘Hunting High and Low'.

The best song in the world:
Lauren: Seriously, is anyone able to answer this?

Links:
Elle.no

Thanks to Jakob Sekse, Hannah and Dona for links, translations and information which contributed to this archive.

Magne's MySpace Blog in the Top 10

Wed, 25 Oct 2006 16:07:00 GMT

2006-10-25

It's easy to get lost in the MySpace jungle of bands, blogs and babes, and that's why MyRockin Profile Awards have created a site to make it easier to find the talent. They have awards in several categories, and this week Magne F made it to the top 10 in the category 'Best Blogs/Writers.'

At his MySpace site, Magne has created a blog where his lyrical side is allowed to flow. Poems and words for unsung songs are posted with regularity, and everyone who is curious about what goes on in his strange mind should check it out. Apparently, there are a lot of curious people out there, as Magnes's blog was voted number nine this week, with almost 2000 votes.

Savoy's MySpace site has also been entered in the MyRockin Profile Awards. As of last night, Savoy were ranked the #33 'Best Friend' and the #68 'Favorite Music Band with a Label.'

Links:

Magne's MySpace site | Vote for Magne's blog here | Magne F - #9 'Best Blog

Savoy's MySpace site | Vote for Savoy's site here | Savoy - # 33 'Best Friend' | Savoy - #68 'Favorite Music Band with a Label'

a-ha nominated for 'Best Feel Good Act'

Tue, 03 Oct 2006 15:19:00 GMT

2006-10-03

Following their performances in the UK this summer, a-ha have been nominated in the category of 'Best Feel Good Act' in the UK Festivals Awards 2006! Read on to find out how to vote for a-ha!

The awards started out in 2004 to celebrate the organisers and artists which help make the UK festival scene the most vibrant in the world. The awards are publicly voted and culminate in a live awards show and ceremony on Thursday, 19 October at the Carling Islington Academy, London, where there will be guest presenters, live acts, DJs and the usual festival shenanigans.

Taken from a press release about the event:

"Music fans wishing to cast their all important vote can do so by going to http://www.festivalawards.com/ from Monday 25th September. This year, voting will take place for a limited three-week period.

Now, there is even more incentive for festival goers to vote, as the UK Festival Awards are offering an exclusive ‘Ultimate Festival Package' including two tickets to ALL of the winning festivals AND free lager for a year courtesy of partners Carling. All those who vote will be entered into a prize draw to snap this up and make sure 2007 is a year to remember!"

Be sure to vote for a-ha!!

a-ha in the media - February 2006 (Part II)

Thu, 08 Jun 2006 14:54:00 GMT

2006-06-08

Our February media overview picks up where the last one left off.

a-ha's British press coverage
2006-02-04 - VG (Web, Norway)

News of British press coverage following a-ha's UK comeback appeared in Norwegian media. An article on VG Nett (Norway) mentions the recent coverage in the Evening Standard. The article on VG Nett refers to the Evening Standard articles "The boy band that grew up" and "a-ha are still rocking".

VG (Norway)

The Evening Standard (1) | The Evening Standard (2) (UK)

Morten interview on Store Studio
2006-02-06 - Store Studio on NRK (T.V., Norway)

On February 6, Morten was a guest on the Norwegian talk show "Store Studio," broadcast on NRK TV. The interview touched on many topics, including their recent UK success, their success in the 80s, and Morten's influence on the 80s fashion scene. Morten even wore his famous leather wristbands at the request of the interviewers.

The episode also included footage of Madonna's ‘Take on Me' performance on Saturday Night Live in 1985, as well as a clip of Morten at a press conference in Trondheim in 2003.

When asked about the current success in the UK, Morten replied, "A top 10 in England is ‘far out.' There are so many things that have to be in the right place for this to happen, so it is almost like a lottery. However, the most important thing for us is, although it means a lot when these things happen, is the response in England for the album, which is our main effort and is what we do...that it happened this time is strange because the people who buy singles, and this is based primarily on sold singles, are not considered to be our natural audience, so I don't know why this happened."

About the famous leather wristbands, Morten says that he still keeps them. When asked where he found them, he replied, "I don't know where I had them, I found them, they just showed up. These are just a few. It was my younger brother, Kjetil, who started wearing them. I liked them and started wearing them too." Apparently, Madonna's wristbands were also influenced by a-ha.

About their sense of style in the 80s, Morten said, "I cut my own hair for at least three years, during the heyday period to at least 1987-1988. I think you can probably see that (we had no stylist), but it worked, in a way." He also talked about how he did not let his image as a sex symbol and pinup boy influence him.

The interview also touched on Morten's philosophical side, and the clip from the infamous 2003 Trondheim press conference was shown. In the clip, Morten declared that he doesn't "believe in the physical world" (this is a common theory in Phenomenology). Morten went on to say that he does not enjoy press conferences, because journalists generally ask uninteresting questions. About his philosophical side, Morten thought that it was inappropriate to speak about it in depth at a press conference or on the show.

Watch the episode "Store Studio 06.02.06" HERE (the interview with Morten appears 20 minutes into the episode). Many thanks to Anna on minor earth forum for translating the interview into English.

A few words with a sensitive poet
2006-02-05 and 2006-02-10 - a-ha.com (Web)

In the midst of one of a-ha's busiest promotion weeks in years, Magne took the time to answer some questions via e-mail. You can read the Q&A at the following links:

a-ha.com (1) | a-ha.com (2)

Analogue single debuts at #10 in the Norwegian charts
2006-02-07 - Norway

Released on January 30, the ‘Analogue' single debuted at #10 in the Norwegian charts on February 7 (week 6 of 2006). During the same week, the ‘Analogue' album ranked at #24.

The ‘Analogue' album produced two top ten singles so far, making this the first a-ha album since ‘Scoundrel Days' to have two or more top 10 singles in the Norwegian charts. The first single release from the ‘Analogue' album, ‘Celice,' remained on the Norwegian charts for nine weeks, and reached #1.

The Norwegian release of the ‘Analogue' single includes the following tracks:
1. Analogue (All I want) - Album Version
2. Minor Key Sonata (Analogue)

Norwegian chart listings

Many thanks to Anna on minor earth forum interpreting the chart positions from VG Nett.

More ‘Analogue' chart news
2006-02-08 - Norway

During the same week that the ‘Analogue' single debuted at #10 in the Norwegian charts, the single reached #11 and the album rose to #2 on iTunes (Norway).

Here's how the single and the album fared on the Norwegian charts this month:

‘Analogue' single
Chart positions weeks 6-9, 2006:
Week - position
6 - 10
7 - 11
8 - 16
9 - outside of chart

‘Analogue' album
Chart positions weeks 6-9, 2006:
6 - 24
7 - 22
8 - 15
9 - 13

2006-02-17 - Worldwide

‘Analogue' chart and airplay positions for various countries on February 17, 2006 are as follows:

Latvia - Airplay Top 50: #10 (new)

UK - Airplay Top 50: #15 (previous week #6)

Denmark - P3 Tjeklisten: #24

Israel - Official Top 30 (Airplay): #13 (last week #17)

Estonia - Airplay Top 40: #29 (last week #36)

Bulgaria - Airplay Top 100: #7 (last week #46)

Lithuania - Launos Top 40: #5 (last week #4)

Belgium - BRF Hitparade Top 30: #9 (last week #11)

World Chart - International Hit Radio Top 40: #34 (new)

Norwegian chart listings | International chart and airplay information

Many thanks to Anna on minor earth forum for interpreting the chart positions from VG Nett, and to ToreG on minor earth forum for the international chart and airplay information.

Magne Furuholmen attends Quintessentially opening in Norway
2006-02-09 - Ekeberg Restaurant (Oslo, Norway)

Magne Furuholmen and his wife Heidi Rydjord attended the Quintessentially opening in Oslo, Norway. Quintessentially is a private members' club focused on ‘accessing the inaccessible.'

Article about the opening (includes a picture of Magne and Heidi): TV2
News clip (forward to 3 min 7 sec into the clip to catch a glimpse of Magne and Heidi): TV2
Quintessentially home page

Autographed Epiphone guitar up for auction in the Virgin Radio competition
2006-02-13 - Virgin Radio (radio, UK)

a-ha visited Virgin Radio studios to sign an Epiphone Special II guitar and an Epiphone SG Special guitar. One of the guitars was given away by Virgin Radio in a competition, and the other guitar was put up for auction on eBay to raise money for the Teenage Cancer Trust fund. The guitar was sold on eBay for £800 on February 16.

Here is an excerpt from the eBay listing:

Virgin Radio Teenage Cancer Trust auction
Commencing Monday 13th Feb at 9.15am, thanks to Virgin Radio, there's an amazing collection of the music we all love available on eBay for bidders to get their hands on.

This is an incredible collection of some of the most sought-after music and memorabilia, which music fans just can't buy in the shops, it's only available to those in the know, with all money going to the Teenage Cancer Trust.

This exclusive collection includes:

An a-ha signed Epiphone guitar.

So make sure you're signed up with an eBay account by 13 February and get bidding, and check out virginradio.co.uk for more details...good luck!

Picture of a-ha with the signed guitars: Epiphone.com and Ebay listing.

Magne Furuholmen participates as a judge for the Bombay Sapphire Designer Glass competition
2006-02-16 - Bombay Sapphire Designer Glass competition (Blomqvist (Oslo), Norway)

Magne Furuholmen participated as a judge in the annual Norwegian "Bombay Sapphire Designer Glass Competition 2006." Design students from twenty-three schools took part in the competition, held on February 16, to create a cocktail glass inspired by Bombay Sapphire Glass.

Fourteen glasses made it into the finals, and the winning glass creation was Knut Karlsen's "Nymphaea." The winner will travel to Milan to take part in an international competition (Salone del Mobile).

Knut's motivation for his glass was that it is "elegant and beautiful and really seemed to be filled with Bombay Sapphire and a slice of lemon."

February 16, 2006 competition: Article 1 | Article 2 | Article 3 | Article 4

Articles announcing Magne as a judge in the competition (from 2005): Article 1 | Article 2

Many thanks to Anna on minor earth forum for providing a summary of the article on http://www.designpilot.no/.

Morten Harket a guest presenter at the BRIT Awards 2006
2006-02-16 - BRIT Awards (Earls Court, London, UK)

On February 15, Morten was a presenter at the 2006 BRIT Awards. Morten presented the best British Single award to Coldplay for ‘Speed of Sound'. Coldplay has, on several occasions, cited a-ha as a major musical influence.

The BRIT Awards, founded by the British Phonographic Industry, is a music awards show honoring pop music in the UK.

Morten's arrival attracted some attention as well:

"There are smiles all round from the ladies (and a fair few men) in the artist area. The reason? A certain lead singer of a certain 80's superband-Morten Harket to be precise-has arrived. If it's possible for an incredibly handsome man to get even better looking with age, he's managed it." - BRIT Awards Blog

Johnny Vaughan interviewed Morten at the BRIT Awards. You can download an mp3 file or a podcast of the interview here (forward to 3 min 50 sec for the interview with Morten): Capital FM

For more information and a picture of Morten at the awards: a-ha.com

More pictures of Morten at the BRIT Awards:

Morten is mentioned in the following BRIT Awards 2006 blogs:

Sunday Gossip | Onstage Action-as it happened!

International Air Dates

Interview with Magne in El Mercurio (Chile)
2006-02-17 - El Mercurio (Newspaper, Chile)

Magne provided an interview to the Chilean newspaper El Mercurio through email, which was published on February 17. Here is an excerpt from the article, titled "More Respect for a-ha":

In the past, they were seen only as handsome boys and now as a band that didn't surpass the 80s. But the band that comes to Viña speak like Vikings and defend: they don't live in the past: they have worked with Coldplay, and they have received praise for ‘Analogue,' which has just been released in Chile.

As for Coldplay, Chris Martin has named the Norwegians as major influences in the band members' decision to become musicians. Moreover, both Coldplay's drummer and bass player, as well as a member of Travis, collaborated with Magne Furuholmen on his 2004 solo CD. Magne joked that he feels guilty for this influence, and that this will be not the only collaboration, "They won't get off that lightly. Being an a-ha fan comes at a price."

Magne commented, with his usual humor, on the contribution of a-ha to the pop music, "sad songs in major and happy songs in minor."

According to an article in The Times, published in November, the band composes separately because of the tension among them. Furuholmen laughs at the subject, "Any more than 5 minutes in the same room together and there's knives out. No, not really. We write separately because when we are together all we want to do is the cha cha."

The ‘Analogue' CD received glowing reviews, however, sales were disappointing. About this, Magne said, "We can only have one thing at a time; we had the sales already, now it is time for the reviews."

a-ha agreed to come to Viña because they have good memories of the country. They expect the usual Chilean politeness, enthusiasm, smiles, and singing.

About the demands of the band to play at the Viña festival, Magne responds, "If you really want, you can get us a house by the sea, a pet llama, and (a) trip to the Andes (but stop me if I seem greedy)."

Read the original Q&A that Magne completed for El Mercurio HERE and compare it to the finished article in El Mercurio

Many thanks to Sara Shiva on minor earth forum and Nubby for translating the El Mercurio article into English.

a-ha arrive in Chile
2006-02-22 - Santiago, Chile

At around 10 a.m. on February 22, Morten arrived in Chile. Unlike Magne and Paul, Morten faced the press for some questions on his way out from the airport. Morten's arrival caused some hysteria as many fans and reporters were awaiting his arrival.

Paul Waaktaar-Savoy arrived later in the day on February 22.

Magne Furuholmen and his family arrived in Chile on February 18 and spent a few vacation days in San Pedro de Atacama before going to the festival.

Photo gallery of Morten's arrival: Terra.cl
Click on "GALERÍA DE FOTOS: LA LLEGADA DE MORTEN HARKET"

Video clip of Morten's arrival: Festival home page | Terra.cl

Many thanks to Silvia on minor earth forum for translating the article on Terra.cl into English.

Press conference in Chile
2006-02-23 - Hotel O'Higgins (Viña Del Mar, Chile)

On February 23, a-ha held a press conference at Viña del Mar. They talked about their first memories of Chile, why they wanted to return, and answered the interviewer's questions with their usual wit.

Here is an excerpt from the press conference:

I was talking about the 80s, you were a very important band at that time in Chile, because that was a very special time in Chile too. You know that we listen to your music, it was a very happy music... in a very dark time here in Chile. I would like to ask you about your memories at that time because there's a revival of the 80s, and I would like to know how was that time for you? Which are your best memories of those years?

Magne: It was a pretty dark time for us (laughs). Well, you know, if I say Chile, is that a good answer? (laughs) Last time we were here, we only got to see Santiago...we went skiing in the Andes.

Morten: But the promoter took us out of Santiago because the pollution level was very high at that point, so he wanted to give us some air to breathe in. That's what I remember.

Magne: Now the air has returned!

Morten: I don't remember where we actually played...but we were here very brief(ly). We were only here a couple of days in total.

Magne: But I remember...organizing that trip to the Andes mountain to go skiing, and I think it's one of the reasons why I wanted to come back and explore more of the country. The skiing was great, but it was just the country itself...this time when we were asked if we would come and play a festival in Chile, it was kind of between tours, so it wasn't like we were in the middle of a promotional tour or something like this, and so the reason we came back is partly because we really wanted to come back.

So do you know anything about the festival itself?

Morten: It's been running for 47 years or so...so, I'm older than the festival! It's about time I come here and play then, before it's too late...let's see who lasts the longer!

What are you going to play during the show?

Morten: Most likely, our own music.

Magne: It's gonna be a-ha music.

Morten: It will be stretching throughout the career.

So, hits?

Morten: There might be a few hits, yeah. What else do we have?

Magne: We'll throw in a couple of misses to keep everyone happy! Keep the balance...

You're going to play ‘Take on Me', I assume.

Morten: We're not going to say, are we?

Do you like that song?

Morten: We're not going to say, are we?

Magne: How can we not?!

Morten: We have a lot of songs, and it's actually hard to choose at times.

You can listen to the press conference HERE | Photo gallery | Photo gallery 2

a-ha perform at the Viña del Mar festival
2006-02-24 - Quinta Vergara amphitheatre (Viña Del Mar, Chile)

On February 24, a-ha performed their much-anticipated show at the Viña del Mar festival in Chile. The Viña del Mar festival, which takes place every February and lasts six days, attracts international and local performers who compete to please the demanding audience, known as the "monster".

photo: Silvia Cornejo from minor earth forum

Set list:
Celice
Move to Memphis
Stay on these Roads
Cosy Prisons
I've Been Losing You
Crying in the Rain
Hunting High and Low
Take on Me
Cry Wolf

a-ha is presented with the Silver Torch

First Encore:
I Call Your Name
The Sun Always Shines on TV

a-ha is presented with the Golden Torch

Second encore:
Analogue
The Living Daylights

a-ha is presented with the Silver Seagull

photo: Silvia Cornejo from minor earth forum

During the performance, Magne addressed the audience in Spanish several times, thanking them for the invitation to perform at Viña. The fans also showed their gratitude; some fans were displaying posters with the words "Takk, come back to Chile". Before the first encore, Morten also addressed the audience, "It's great to be here, it's been a very long time. We came back together after a long break, it's really great to come here to Chile. Thank you so much."

Highlights of the show included the performance of ‘Hunting High and Low', where the audience sang with Morten and on their own, and an energetic, less synthesized version of ‘I've Been Losing You'. The "monster" also demonstrated how loud they could get during the performance of ‘Take on Me'.

a-ha left the show with three awards: a Silver Torch, a Golden Torch, and a Silver Seagull.

photo: Silvia Cornejo from minor earth forum

The performance was broadcast live on the Canal 13 Web site in Chile.

Viña del Mar Festival 2006 Web site | a-ha page | video clips

Pictures from the performance: Photos 1 | Photos 2 | Photos 3 | Backstage 1 | Backstage 2

Media coverage in the Chilean press
The following excerpts are from some of the many press articles about a-ha's appearance at the Viña del Mar festival:

We always expected to come back to Chile
2006-02-23 - El Mercurio online (Web, Chile)

Time seems to have stood still for a-ha. The Norwegians look as youthful as they did years ago in the 80s.

a-ha first performance in Chile was in 1991. At that time, they performed three shows at Estadio Chile, and made a television appearance for Canal 13. That performance took place six years after their album ‘Hunting High and Low' (1985) and the single ‘Take on Me.'

Tomorrow night's show will be a collage of their most popular songs. Morten Harket tried to scare the audience and said, "95% of the songs that we will perform in the show are from our new album...no, it's a joke... tomorrow will feature a mix of songs from our career, but of course we will also perform songs from our last album".

Morten also commented on the commercial success the band attained in the 80s, as compared to today: "Maybe we don't have the commercial success that we had before, but this kind of thing doesn't matter to us, we are, primarily, musicians...In Europe we have a lot of success, we toured in England and have a top ten hit. It means that we are going in the right direction."

Emol.com

The audience sang for a-ha
2006-02-24 - El Mercurio (Web, Chile)

Neither big leaps nor dramatic movements; in the third night of the Festival del Viña, a-ha gave an unpretentious performance. The full house showed respect for the Norwegian group.

Paul Waaktaar, Magne Furuholmen and Morten Harket had a cool and quiet air about them during the first songs, which did not show the same emotional response the audience expressed about the band being back in our country after 10 years. Fans displayed banners welcoming a-ha throughout the entire performance.

After the calmer performances, a-ha began to rock with ‘I've Been Losing You'. None of their greatest hits were missing, and the audience sang along to the classics ‘Take on Me' and ‘Hunting High and Low.' The audience participated so loudly that Morten let them sing along on their own.

Magne Furuholmen expressed his gratitude to the audience in a rudimentary Spanish, "Many, many thanks. Thanks for inviting us." He then continued in English, "A lot of time has passed. It is good to be back here."

When a-ha finished their performance, their demonstrative gestures showed that they would have liked to stay. The audience obviously wanted the same.

Emol.com

a-ha are the absolute winners of Viña del Mar
2006-02-25 - diariohoy (Web, Chile)

The Norwegian group was the big winner on the third night of the 47th edition of the Festival de la Conción de Viña del Mar. a-ha were rewarded by the audience with the Silver Torch as well as the highest appreciation award of the festival: the Silver Seagull.

With their performance, the band from the 80's enthused the entire audience in the Quinta Vergara.

a-ha celebrated their own history as they performed ‘Move to Memphis,' ‘The Sun Always Shines on TV,' ‘I've Been Losing You,' ‘Crying In The Rain,' ‘Take On Me,' and ‘Cry Wolf,' all hits released before 1993.

Diariohoy

During a night of contrasts, a-ha and Chancho en Piedra shone
2006-02-25 - Radio Cooperativa online (Web, Chile)

The Norwegian trio and our own band could have equally shared the entire performance making up the third night of the festival, because they had no other competition in terms of quality and audience feedback.

Most likely, Chancho en Piedra's fans were not even born in 1985, when a-ha released their album ‘Hunting High and Low,' but that didn't seem to matter to the Quinta Vergara audience: they danced and had a good time to the music of the Scandinavian trio.

Drum and bass support replaced the excessive keyboard in the remake of the old classics, which were true to the originals, but included the emotion of a live performance.

a-ha defined their show at Viña as "great" and "fantastic" ... they gave us perfect sound. For the band's sceptics, a-ha showed proof of relevance and musical quality. a-ha won the Silver Torch, Golden Torch, and Silver Seagull awards. Morten Harket, Magne Furuholmen, and Paul Waaktaar-Savoy understood that these awards were a gift from the audience for their performance as an extraordinary and solid band.

Cooperativa.cl

a-ha and Chancho en Piedra shone at the festival's 3rd night
2006-02-25 - Canal 13.cl - Teletrece (Web, Chile)

The Norwegian band conquered and kept the audience excited during their performance.
While a-ha, with frontman Morten Harket, received a great reception from the audience throughout the performance, the local band, Chancho en Piedra also received similar feedback from the audience.
a-ha, opened the festival's third night, feeling self assured and performing their most familiar hits, as well as three new tracks, such as ‘Analogue' and ‘Celice.'

Magne Furuholmen addressed the audience in Spanish several times during the performance, which the audience appreciated. Finally, the Norwegians said farewell to Viña 2006, with the Silver Torch, Golden Torch, and Silver Seagull awards in hand.

Canal 13

Successful show for the Norwegian band
2006-02-25 - Terra.cl (Web, Chile)

Silver Seagull, Silver and Golden Torches for a-ha

Viña del Mar, February 24th - Morten Harket, Paul Waaktaar and Magne Furuholmen didn't make us wait for their show! The performance of ‘Take on Me' was unforgettable: the audience reacted with emotion and demanded that the band be awarded with a Silver Torch.

The audience wanted additional performances from a-ha, so the audience was treated to a performance of a new track from ‘Analogue'. a-ha was also awarded a Golden Torch. After an hour, the audience demanded a Silver Seagull for a-ha, which was awarded to the band.

Terra.cl

a-ha: nostalgia and artistic importance
2006-02-25 - La Tercera (Newspaper, Chile)

They're not particularly empathetic, they do not even make concessions with their grateful gestures. As meritorious sons of the ice (Oslo, Norway, 1982), they seem to be touched either by a sing-a-long audience or Silver/Gold Torches and a Silver Seagull (the most important award at the Viña Festival). a-ha's sensibility is instead demonstrated by their elegant, synthesized, and sophisticated pop, with hymn-like tunes. The performance included emotional moments, such as when Morten Harket sang a capella with the audience: this moment confirmed that the long-time band does not perform concerts in auto-pilot mode. a-ha was one of the highlights of Viña.

A day of contrasts in Quinta Vergara
2006-02-25 - La Tercera (Newspaper, Chile)
Third night: Success for a-ha; Estrada and Los Tigres del Norte ignored.

JUST HITS. a-ha ended their performance with two Torches and a Silver Seagull in a concert featuring popular singles from the 80s.

Even Sergio Lagos (the Festival's master of ceremonies) "fell in love" with the Norwegian band a-ha, who performed one of the best shows of the current Festival. The audience also reacted to the performance: they whistled when the production cut for commercials and they clapped and asked for more; but when the producers said ‘no', the audience persisted even more loudly. The audience wanted more performances from a-ha, and the following two performances by Javier Estrada and Los Tigres del Norte were barely heard in the Quinta Vergara.

a-ha pale threesome won "The Monster's" ovation with their 80s hits
2006-02-25 - La Cuarta (Newspaper, Chile)

Viña's audience is commonly referred to as "The Monster of Quinta Vergara" because they accept or reject the artists in a very loud way. During a-ha's thirteen-song set, the audience clapped and shouted to show their appreciation throughout the entire performance. In fact, one fan managed to evade the security guards and kissed Morten onstage, just as the first chords of ‘Stay on these Roads' sounded. The "Monster" went crazy when a-ha played their hit ‘Take On Me'.

a-ha rise again and are winners at Viña del Mar
2006-02-25 - Cadena 3 (Web/radio, Argentina)

The Norwegians were the big winners in the third night of the Festival de Viña del Mar: they received three awards from the audience, a Silver Torch, a Golden Torch and the most prestigious festival award, the Silver Seagull.

They performed some classics songs from their career: ‘Move to Memphis,' ‘The Sun Always Shines on TV,' ‘I've Been Losing You,' 'Crying in the Rain,' ‘Take on Me' and ‘Cry Wolf.'

Cadena3.com

Many thanks to Claudia on minor earth forum for translating the following articles into English:
a-ha are the absolute winners of Viña del Mar; The audience sang for a-ha

Many thanks to Silvia on minor earth forum for translating the following articles into English:
We always expected to come back to Chile;
During a night of contrasts, a-ha and Chancho en Piedra shone;
a-ha and Chancho en Piedra shone at the festival's 3rd night;
Successful show for the Norwegian band;
a-ha rise again and are winners at Viña del Mar

Many thanks to Andrea Duran for translating the following articles into English:
a-ha: nostalgia and artistic importance;
A day of contrasts in Quinta Vergara;
a-ha pale threesome won ‘The Monster's' ovation with their 80s hits

Message from Magne
2006-02-27 - Universal Music Group UK a-ha mailing list

Magne touched base with fans from Chile this month, through the UK a-ha mailing list, to give fans an update on a-ha's performance in Chile and to gives fans an update on the forthcoming single from ‘Analogue.'

To receive future email updates from the band, sign up for the mailing list at HERE.

Here is an excerpt from the message:

"Dear mailinglist: The Dark Ness Monster

Sitting here in the southern hemisphere after a week at altitudes up to 4700 metres, you will forgive an old man for being sentimental (and if you don't, well sod off!).
...
From the Chilean press-conference the other day: "What is the difference between making music today and 20 years ago?"

Me: "Back then our hearing was fine, now it's gone" (partly true...)
Paul: "it takes the pain out of it" (true...)
Morten: "no difference, really" (false)

It's time for the 2nd single from the Analogue(s) album-and heaven knows we are asking too much; after all your splendid efforts of putting the Analogue single in the UK charts, you would be in the moral right to ask what kind of monsters would have you placed back in the shops for yet more watered out single-versions with tacky remixes blended with substandard demo material...?
You're absolutely right: WE would.
We have no shame - deal with it!
...
Ask not what this band can do for you, but what you can do for this band.
How could anyone resist? I'm damned if I know.
Peas (in a pod)
magne f"

Magne was in a recording studio in London for three days recently (February 16-18), working on the new mix of ‘Cosy Prisons' with Dave Bascombe.

'Fjord Fiesta!'

Mon, 01 May 2006 14:52:00 GMT

2006-05-01

The June edition of Q Magazine (UK) includes a four-page feature on a-ha, which follows the band during their recent trip to Senegal to participate in a charity event organized by Plan. The article gives a succinct history of the band and a frank look at their current image and internal interactions. Q Magazine is available at newstands within the UK and abroad, or check their website for ordering information at q4music.com.

Magne talks about Sir Peter Blake in 'Time Out' magazine

Tue, 25 Apr 2006 14:50:00 GMT

2006-04-25

In the April 19 edition of 'Time Out' magazine, Magne discusses his admiration for Sir Peter Blake, whom he describes as "a major player in the art world since the 60s, when he was one of the leading lights of the British pop art scene."

Perhaps most often associated with his 'Sgt Pepper' Beatles album cover, Magne explained the impact it had on him. "As a ten-year-old, I was too young to have developed a real interest in art, but I think that cover really opened my eyes to the possibilities of the visual arts. Having become aware of Peter Blake through that, I've followed his work ever since, eventually moving into the visual arts myself."

Magne met Blake a few years back via a mutual acquaintance in gallerist Paul Stolper in London. "I've met a lot of my heroes over the years and most of them just confirmed what I already thought about them. But with Peter, meeting him actually developed my interest in him enormously. It really opened me up to his personality and it was amazing to meet a 70-year-old who still exudes such energy...I find Peter's zest for life enormously reassuring and inspiring. I think all of us can learn from that."

Excerpted from paper edition.

German TV show 'Let's Dance'

Mon, 24 Apr 2006 13:38:00 GMT

2006-04-24

On Saturday 22 April, a-ha appeared on a new German TV show called 'Let's Dance.' The TV show went very well. The German fans showed impressive support and made the guys very happy.

The fans in the studio applauded so loudly that the host of the show couldn't even start his presentation; they even applauded in the middle of the song.

a-ha did a playback performance which was pre-taped just before the live show started. This is requested by the TV station in case something goes wrong during the live show, they could "use" the performance whenever needed within the show and prepare it much better.

'Let's Dance' is currently one of the most succesful shows on German television and was the most seen show on Saturday (5.7 million viewers and there was a peak of more than 7 million)- for sure caused by the a-ha fans ;-)

When the band arrived at the airport, they were greeted by the first fans who were waiting for a-ha. After a short lunch they drove to the TV station, and started with a rehearsal which was taped to get a few close ups. They performed about four times until all cameras and lights were set and there was a short break again.

After the audience arrived and before the show went live on air the final performance was taped within a great atmosphere. The fans gave them such a warm welcome, it was really great!

Paul was not present for this performance, and as in the past when schedule conflicts have arisen, there was a stand-in for him on stage.

The performance over, a-ha left the studio and had a really nice dinner in an Italian restaurant where they tested a few different grappas...