Is Cast in Steel a good place to start with a-ha?

Yes, Cast in Steel is recommended as a starting point for new a-ha listeners. A lush blend of synth-pop and alternative rock, layered with introspective lyrics and atmospheric melodies that evoke nostalgia. Released in 2015, 'Cast in Steel' marked a significant return for a-ha after a six-year hiatus since their album 'Foot of the Mountain'. This album showcased the band's enduring appeal, blending their classic sound with contemporary influences while reaffirming their status in the pop landscape. It also coincided with their 30th anniversary, encapsulating their evolution over three decades.

Who is Cast in Steel for?

Cast in Steel works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective flow, nostalgic melodies for introspection and thoughtful listening during commutes.

How many songs are on Cast in Steel?

Cast in Steel has 12 tracks, running approximately 47 minutes.

Cast in Steel

a-ha · 2015

47 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock

A lush blend of synth-pop and alternative rock, layered with introspective lyrics and atmospheric melodies that evoke nostalgia.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Cast in Steel Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Under the Makeup — This track features poignant lyrics about identity and the facades people wear, highlighting the album's exploration of deeper emotional themes. The combination of haunting vocals and rich instrumentation creates a memorable listening experience.
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Living at the End of the World — With its reflective tone, this song captures feelings of disillusionment and hope simultaneously, embodying the album's thematic complexity. The evocative melody complements its lyrical narrative about facing uncertain times.
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Objects in the Mirror — This track stands out for its vivid storytelling and emotional resonance, as it delves into themes of nostalgia and reminiscence. Its dynamic arrangement showcases a-ha's signature sound while pushing their musical boundaries.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album blends nostalgic themes with solid craftsmanship but lacks standout cohesion across its length.

What we noticed

The first half of the album maintains a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied tempos and dynamics.
Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies that create a rich, atmospheric sound, particularly in 'Under the Makeup' and 'Living at the End of the World'.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo reflective flow
nostalgic melodies for introspection
thoughtful listening during commutes
melodic textures for evening relaxation

Maybe skip if you

seekers of fast-paced tracks
prefer upbeat party music

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Reestablished a-ha's presence after a hiatus, showcasing their enduring appeal.
Themes: nostalgic reflections· identity facades· disillusionment in modernity
Moods: Nostalgic· Introspective
Career context: Released in 2015, 'Cast in Steel' marked a significant return for a-ha after a six-year hiatus since their album 'Foot of the Mountain'. This album showcased the band's enduring appeal, blending their classic sound with contemporary influences while reaffirming their status in the pop landscape. It also coincided with their 30th anniversary, encapsulating their evolution over three decades.
Stylistic neighbors: Duran Duran· Depeche Mode· The Human League