What makes Foot of the Mountain by a-ha notable?

The album received positive reviews, particularly for its lead single, which reached No. 1 on the Norwegian charts. It also showcased a-ha's ability to evolve while maintaining their classic sound, influencing both fans and newer pop acts looking to incorporate retro elements into modern music. Released in 2009, Foot of the Mountain marked a significant moment for a-ha as their first studio album since 2005's Analogue. This era saw the band returning to their roots in synth-pop while exploring contemporary themes, with the album being one of their final projects before their initial disbandment in 2010.

How many songs are on Foot of the Mountain?

Foot of the Mountain has 2 tracks, running approximately 7 minutes.

Foot of the Mountain

a-ha · 2009

7 min · 2 tracks · alternative rock

Ethereal synths and soaring melodies intertwine to create a nostalgic yet fresh soundscape that defines a-ha's enduring legacy.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Foot of the Mountain (album version) — This track encapsulates the essence of the album, showcasing lush synth textures and Morten Harket's powerful vocal delivery, reminiscent of their early work while feeling relevant to contemporary listeners.

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 showcases strong melodies and introspective lyrics but lacks a cohesive flow throughout.

What we noticed

The first three tracks establish a consistent mid-tempo pace with gentle synth melodies and reflective lyrics.
The title track features a prominent chorus that contrasts with the verses, creating a dynamic shift in energy.

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

Influence 3/10

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: Late Career Highlight — Marks a strong return to synth-pop, showcasing the band's enduring sound in later years.
Themes: nostalgic synth-pop· Nordic landscapes
Career context: Released in 2009, Foot of the Mountain marked a significant moment for a-ha as their first studio album since 2005's Analogue. This era saw the band returning to their roots in synth-pop while exploring contemporary themes, with the album being one of their final projects before their initial disbandment in 2010.
Stylistic neighbors: Duran Duran· Depeche Mode· The Human League