What makes Early Morning by a-ha notable?

'Early Morning' was notable for its solid chart performance, reaching the top 10 in several countries including Norway and the Netherlands. The album showcased a-ha's ability to evolve within the pop landscape, being both commercially viable and critically recognized, helping to cement their legacy in the synth-pop genre. Released on February 1, 1991, 'Early Morning' marked a transition for a-ha as their fourth studio album following the commercial success of 'Stay On These Roads'. At this point, the band had established themselves in the global music scene but needed to adapt their sound to maintain relevance amid changing musical landscapes. This album reflects their exploration into deeper lyrical themes and more sophisticated production techniques.