What makes Cry Wolf by a-ha notable?

The extended version of 'Cry Wolf' became a notable club hit, reflecting a-ha's ability to engage with both mainstream and alternative audiences. The single's success helped maintain the band's visibility in an evolving music landscape dominated by new wave and electronic sounds, even as they faced competition from emerging artists. Released on November 24, 1986, 'Cry Wolf' was a pivotal moment for a-ha as their third studio album, 'Scoundrel Days', had solidified their status in the synth-pop scene. Following international success with hits like 'Take On Me', this release aimed to expand their artistic horizons while maintaining chart presence.

How many songs are on Cry Wolf?

Cry Wolf has 3 tracks, running approximately 14 minutes.

Released 40 years ago

Cry Wolf

a-ha · 1986

14 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

Synth-driven melodies intertwine with soaring vocals, creating a lush soundscape that captures the essence of 80s pop rock.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Cry Wolf (extended version) — This extended version showcases a-ha's knack for blending intricate synth arrangements with catchy hooks, making it a staple in dance clubs during the late 80s.
→
Cry Wolf (album version) — The album version distills the essence of the track into a concise format, highlighting Morten Harket's vocal prowess and the band's signature production style.
→
Maybe, Maybe — This track offers a more introspective side of a-ha, featuring lyrical depth and melodic craftsmanship that contrasts with their more upbeat hits.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong melodies but lacks cohesion due to its varied arrangements across tracks.

What we noticed

The extended version of 'Cry Wolf' features a longer instrumental section, allowing for more atmospheric build-up before the vocals enter.
The album version has a tighter structure, with verses and choruses clearly defined, making it more radio-friendly.
The third track, 'Maybe, Maybe', contrasts with the first two by incorporating a more acoustic arrangement, shifting the sonic palette.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Established a-ha's presence in the synth-pop scene after previous successes.
Themes: dance club nostalgia· synth-pop landscapes· introspective melodies
Moods: Introspective· Dark
Career context: Released on November 24, 1986, 'Cry Wolf' was a pivotal moment for a-ha as their third studio album, 'Scoundrel Days', had solidified their status in the synth-pop scene. Following international success with hits like 'Take On Me', this release aimed to expand their artistic horizons while maintaining chart presence.
Stylistic neighbors: Duran Duran· Depeche Mode· The Human League

New to a-ha? Find your way in →

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Cry Wolf (album version)

The lyrics shift from uncertainty to a poignant realization about love's complexities and fragility.

This progression mirrors the emotional tension throughout the song, encapsulating the struggle between vulnerability and self-protection.