Is Velvet a good place to start with a-ha?

Yes, Velvet is recommended as a starting point for new a-ha listeners. A silky blend of synth-pop and soft rock, entwining lush melodies with electronic textures that shimmer throughout each track. Released in 1996, Velvet marked a significant phase for a-ha as they transitioned into the mid-90s music landscape, following the commercial success of their previous albums. This release came during a time when the band was exploring new sounds and production techniques, showcasing their adaptability within the evolving pop scene.

Velvet works well if you're into steady grooves for relaxed vibes, atmospheric soundscapes for focus and short bursts of engaging rhythm.

How many songs are on Velvet?

Velvet has 7 tracks, running approximately 31 minutes.

Released 30 years ago

Velvet

a-ha · 1996

31 min · 7 tracks · alternative rock

A silky blend of synth-pop and soft rock, entwining lush melodies with electronic textures that shimmer throughout each track.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Velvet (radio version) Start here — This track serves as the album's centerpiece, showcasing a-ha's signature blend of melodic hooks and electronic beats while encapsulating the overall feel of the record.
→
Velvet (New York City mix) — The New York City mix introduces a more experimental sound that highlights the band's willingness to embrace diverse influences and modern production techniques.
→
Velvet (De‐Phazz mix) — This remix offers a fresh take on the original track, infusing it with jazzy elements that demonstrate a-ha's versatility and appeal to various musical tastes.

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 features varied mixes that highlight a-ha's melodic strengths but lacks a cohesive narrative across tracks.

What we noticed

The first track, 'Velvet (radio version)', sets a smooth tone with its lush synth textures and melodic hooks, establishing the sonic palette for the rest of the single.
The inclusion of multiple remixes allows for exploration of different electronic styles, from jazzy influences in the De-Phazz mix to more club-oriented beats in the New York City mix.

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 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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 grooves for relaxed vibes
atmospheric soundscapes for focus
short bursts of engaging rhythm
smooth transitions between mixes

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy anthems
prefer standalone tracks only

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — Represents a transitional phase with notable tracks but not widely recognized as essential.
Themes: mid-90s reinvention· New York City nightlife· electronic textures
Moods: Chill· Dreamy
Career context: Released in 1996, Velvet marked a significant phase for a-ha as they transitioned into the mid-90s music landscape, following the commercial success of their previous albums. This release came during a time when the band was exploring new sounds and production techniques, showcasing their adaptability within the evolving pop scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Duran Duran· Depeche Mode· The Human League