The ABBAs will always be the best group in the world to me. I play their music daily because it makes me happy and reminds me of my eldest daughter Maria who died of cancer at the age of 48. She loved their music When I hear their music I remember all the good times we enjoyed together.
The dolby atmos series to VOYAGE album from this channel made me love them even more.A perfect deconstruction that digged out its multiple hidden treasures .
I love how layered every ABBA composition is. This analysis makes me appreciate this track even more. There’s no arguing that Benny’s music is a masterpiece but some may overlook Bjorn’s lyrics as simplistic. There’s so much to his lyrics beneath the surface and you’ve done a wonderful job deconstructing that to help us understand how complicated and intentional they are. I’ve loved your entire series of vids on Voyage. Thank you for helping fans appreciate this monumental gift to us fans.
Thanks for pointing out Björn's lyrics. It's always easy to dismiss these things, but you just have to look further into it, if you are willing to. Nothing is arbitrary, they are artists in the true sense. Thanks for your heartwarming words, appreciate it very much!
@@bobbysbrother137 Björn has a wonderful ability to capture the feeling of a song appropriate to the mood. So, say for a song like Dancing Queen, the simple lyrics fit the context. "Friday night and the lights are low. Looking out of a place to go". Simple, short sentences, like if you were in a nightclub, you would use short sentences... On the opposite, take "The Visitors" which extemely articulately paints a picture - its a work of art, bursting with layers of complex descriptions and hidden meaning... If you read "Cassandra" as you would a poem, the lyrical rhythym is like a beating drum.. da da da.. da da da... da da da... it is story like.. Looker deeper into other songs, you illiteration, similes, all sorts of rhythmic patterns, rhyming patterns... For me Bjorns lyrics are up there with Michae Stipe in their ability to set a scene, then tell a story...
I'm so glad that you're out there doing these reviews and sharing in them all these rich details that you observe. You are giving this album the treatment it deserves. This is by far the content I enjoyed the most in the Voyage era besides the album itself.
Oh wow, these are some big words, truly heartwarming. Thanks a lot, Julian!! I'm happy to contribute a little somethin' - it's just so much fun putting it all together, and makes me happy it's appreciated.
Perhaps the most intriguing track of the album. The only one that offers a tantalizing sound of a hypothetical ABBA if they had continued in the 80's. Pity that they mixed the male voices too low to discern all the words well.
I find this fascinating. Especially because I've always loved ABBA's arrangements and was always so curious about their recording process. Back in the day, we heard very little about ABBA behind the scenes. As they have always been so private, humble and reserved. Very grateful for this new experience....all these years later...my love for and interest in them has never gone away. How fortunate I am for that.
Very lovely words, Rodney. Couldn't agree more with you - ABBA are just there to make music, put it out, and leave a legacy, which is then up to us to figure out. They are adorably humble.
2 года назад+11
I'm still amazed of how complex these songs are! One of my faves on this album, for sure! And I can't describe the warmness that I feel inside with the interpolation of SOS in the whole song, the end of the song with that "wink" is just the cherry on top haha. Such an amazing video! And thank you for the shoutout!
I LOVE Keep An Eye on Dan. Ever since I first heard Benny and Björn’s “secret” vocals I’ve told everyone I know and had them listen😅😅 I just find this so ingenious, burying a whole other perspective in the mix. It serves the storytelling so brilliantly and and is super catchy as well!
Thank you again for a wonderful insight video! I totally agree that this song is one of the highlights of "Voyage" and of the entire ABBA canon. I want to say that the voice singing the synth line in the intro is actually Agnetha and not Benny. I was surprised to discover this when I extracted the vocals from the rear channels of the 5.1 Atmos mix. I did incorporate it in the intro of the mix I did and it sounds like a female human voice. The song is a masterpiece of Bjorn's storytelling. It has the best first line of a song I have heard in decades! It sets the stage for the very intriguing storyline. "Keep An Eye On Dan" is not just catchy as a phrase, but as a melody. It could be an expression that could go viral on Tik Tok, Instagram, and YT. You very cleverly deconstructed the unique relationship between Benny and Bjorn's backing vocals lyrics and the girls' lyrics. I hadn't thought of out in such detail, but it certainly makes sense. I am hopeful that it will be released as a single, but maybe just before the first concert in May. It would be great for it to become a hit single at that time. I am sure you saw the email from Universal mentioning "No Doubt About It." Perhaps, this is an interim single? I am looking forward to the remaining insights into "Voyage", especially "Ode To Fteedom." For me, OTF is the modern day companion and at least as relevant as John Lennon's "Imagine." Both songs are a response to the troubles and struggles the world is facing. While Lennon's lyrics are written from an idealist view of what the world could be, Bjorn's lyrics are written based on the current reality of the political, economic, and cultural divisions and a sense of frustration regarding the solution. Yet both long for the same thing, a "world that will live as one" (Lennon), and a "wish someone would write an Ode to Freedom that we all could sing" (Ulvaeus). The humanist in Bjorn shines through loud and clear!
Hi Bobby's brother! When i saw the song title I had no idea what to expect!! As it turned out it is yet another Agnetha masterpiece and of course the excellent back up by Frida & the sheer excellence of both guys in the construction of the song 🎵
Another great video. Dan: After many listens, Dan “could be” a special needs child. Who knows, but within the song you get an angst from a mother handing over her son to a father that she suspects does not completely understand the young boy. I also managed to get a version, from motownboy (well done on the best remix ever done), motownboy “boosted” the male backing in his remix. There you hear Benny and Björn even clearer than in the Atmos parts. Also when I listened in the first few days, I noticed that in the beginning of the song, the male backing is not there, but when Dan is handed over, the male part enters. It, to me was when the boy is “handed over” with the father saying to the mother “it really is OK, I have him now and I of course know what I am doing”. The two and fro in the latter part of the songs goes along side the tug of war that goes on with the change of the mother in second chorus, turning the screws on the father from not just coming back on Sunday, but specifying an actual precise time she will be back. Almost like she is not trusting him to be at the place to hand him over. Some people even went so far as to say, perhaps the mother never returns to collect him, but I don’t see it that way. It’s a tug of war, in the physical sence but also in the mental state of both mother and father. I am glad Benny put the outro back as I makes the song end on a very dubious note. Is all well on Sundays or is this just one of many awful Sundays for a worried mother. The comments on his weight, her weight shows us the past disdain each had for the other, but time has passed and both moved on and probably look after themselves better now than when they were together. I do hope this gets a single release. In any case I’ve gone a step further and had a special one off 12” made which I’ll do a video about when I unbox the parcel. It’s a fantastic song that most likely will be passed over for a time but then will awaken much as The Day Before You Came did after people finally understood it.
So many fantastic additional observations here. I know this song means a lot to you, and I love these different angles. I was also noticing the specific time mentioned in the 2nd verse - this is brilliant! As are your observations about how husband and wife (ex) now appreciate each other more than before. I agree, the ending with "SOS" adds so much to the song.
@@williamforbes5985 look for it by putting in a search, keep an eye on Dan (melbourne) seems the Motownboy1 version got removed but someone else uploaded it too, it’s still there.
Thank you for this really great analysis! Getting to hear clearly the wonderful background vocals by the guys brings a wider perspective to this great track. It sounds like the most natural artistic progression of ABBA without losing their link to their past sound. It's like other classic ABBA songs, simple on the surface, with a sad complexity on the inside. I actually didn't immediately hear the link to SOS. A brilliant piece of work, an album highlight for me.
@Bobby's Brother I just re-listened/watched this video. This analysis with the input of the other Abba appreciators is absolutely brilliant. "Dan" may be one of ABBA's best pieces of work, but it is also one of your finest moments, BB! :) Please continue your VOYAGE detailed song series!!!
I have to admit that I having been anxiously awaiting this video - and it exceeded my expectations! Like you, when we only knew the title, I was quite curious, especially with my name being Dan. When I finally got to hear it, it was amazingly well done and enjoyable. I immediately like the melody and the sound. It took a little while to get the full impact of the lyrics, but once I got them, there is no denying it is a powerful song. I think this is the song I play most often from Voyage, and hence why I was looking forward to your video. You outdid yourself. I knew that there were male backing voices, and I could make out some of them, but with this video, I have a new and different understanding of the song. Thank you! I agree with you, the talking past each other does make the situation seem inevitable, and though the potential for reconciliation exists, it seems unlikely that they can reach it. I appreciate your insights and efforts.
Wow, just WOW!!! What a phenomenal deep dive into this awesome track. I want to play this through several more times because I need to process everything you are conveying in your video. But when I realised the father was singing "my Dan", it choked me up! Here we have the anxiety of the mother juxtaposed with the father who will take care of his beloved Dan.
Yeah I'm going to do the same..listen it through a few times just to take in what everyone especially Bobby's brother has pointed out..funny how it takes a while sometimes to totally 'digest' what exactly is going on in 'ABBA 🎵'
It's fun both ways - to pay attention for all these details ("Don't Shut Me Down" is so intriguing in these regards, especially the more the song builds!), but it's also so much fun, of course, to just take it all in as it is, and not think too much about it.
Thankyou Bobby's Brother for the in depth analysis of the structure and arrangements of this song ,it totally enhances its amazing beauty.NOW, this song has mesmerised and captivated me from my very first listening and has done so every time I play it ,it is very emotional to me .The music is haunting and very unnerving, which sets me into the scene of a very awkward situation after a relationship breakdown and the fallout of the tragedy which ,with the child being the common thread that won't let their relationship move on ,and we even hear in the lyrics that maybe it's not over, maybe their is a chance of reconnection reconciliation and forgiveness. The actual beat of the song feels more like a rapid heartbeat filled with fear anxiety and apprehension, and OMG how Agnetha puts so much emotion into every syllable, with her voice ,could this song be a little autobiographical maybe,Agnetha and Bjorn with Christian, all those years ago,just a theory. This is so,so,so pure ABBA a song that in just four minutes suspends belief and makes me so absorbed in a very uncomfortable situation that to me seems to be the perfect sequel to "The winner takes it.all",this song contains EVERY element and the definitive essence that is ABBA ,pure,absorbing and music perfection. If I had to play just one song to someone who have never heard of ABBA ( impossible I know),this would be it,it contains every element and definition that IS ABBA
WOW! Perfectly written! I couldn't have written it better! From the first listen I was captivated by the song, it is absolutely unique, emotional, really so flawlessly written and performed, perfect like ABBA herself. And I also think that song is missing from the ABBA Voyage show, it should have been featured, it's a huge shame.... My opinion is that more new songs from the Voyage album should have been featured, rather than just the two tracks...
Excellent BB ! enjoyed this, especially learning and understanding what the guys are chanting in the background....made a difference for sure. KAEOD is definitely one of the highlights on VOYAGE
Thank you for this deep dive. The words the men sang makes my heart ache a little for couples who get divorced because somehow, they are unable to make the connection to make the marriage work. Yet, they can still care for each other and their children. Some people have commented on the "up tempo" beat of the music. I don't think of the beat as up tempo but URGENT and Anxious. Great music, great lyrics, beautifully sung by ABBA.
Keep an eye on Dan is my absolute favourite track from Voyage. The vocals, the melody, lyrics, and musical treatment are outstanding. It's an uptempo track with serious lyrical content.
WOW...you've surpassed yourself on this one bb....the research you've put into the analysis of this amazing song is huge...I think this is another one of my favourite songs on voyage...I love the use of the violin to give that sense of urgency....also the dramatic drum use for the same reason....I have waited to hear the boys backing vocals clearly,so thanks for that....absolutely brilliant....I wish,though that they were more audible in the finished song...they are too fantastic to be hidden in the background....this album just gets better and better....thanks for all the work you put into these amazing videos...I really appreciate your dedication..Ireland .
Thanks so much for saying these kind words, Frankly! It's just so much fun putting all the pieces together. Love your additional thoughts about the violin and dramatic drums. Cheers to Ireland!
Yes! the album just gets better and better. Keep an Eye on Dan is my standout and thanks BB for dissecting so we know what the guys are saying in response to the girls. This song leaves me in tears every time I play it and I've never even had children to go through that pain. This track is a masterpiece.
The songs in Abba Voyage really mimic a DaVinci painting: they're full of symbolism, layers and layers of meaning, that to the untrained ear may even appear "simplistic" (I remember some appalling reviews by some papers). However, the more you delve into their layers, you can see the sheer amount of work it takes to do all this (as a musician myself); each song is just given enough wink in the eye for you to go in there and start peeling off (like the SOS riff), and make your own meaning out of it. Thanks, BB, our true Indiana Jones for Abba songs.
Beautifully said. Thanks a lot, Marcos!! And I'm happy to be your Indiana Jones on this adventurous journey, to investigate, explorate and dissect all things "Voyage".
It is unbelievable for me how you can take a song down to pieces Bobby's brother. This is amazing work you have been doing on Voyage, really fantastically meticulous. Your analysis made me aware of something as silly as finding out that B and B are actually singing on Keep an eye on Dan ;))))), but also pointing out precious details that would never have come to my mind otherwise. Thanks a lot. :))) I very much hope to read about the other Voyage pieces. Have a good week. :))
I'm very happy reading this. Thanks a lot, Dorota, but also shout-out to all the great contributions from Sam & others that complement the analysis. Cheers!!
I always wondered what the Benny/Björn backing vocals said. It's very romantic and sweet to see, and adds something quite unusual in ABBA: they are letting the addressee finally sing his part of the song and give his own thoughts on the matter. And yes, it's quite heartbreaking the fact that even in this rare instance only us, the audience, are able to hear (barely) both sides of the story, as the characters will never realize the fact that there is still hope. Note: oh God the SOS reference is so dark.
Hello Wow 🤩 I honestly have to say your analysis of all these songs are amazing and I love how you break down each part then bring it all together with all the layers and cross referencing 🙌 Bravo BB I always look forward to your vids since I found your channel 💕 You really do help me understand the songs arrangements so much more clearly 💕 Benny and Bjorns vocals and Agnetha and Fridas are so hauntingly beautiful within this song 🎵 and I agree wholeheartedly it’s a reminiscent of the 80s sound
Hey Hey Bobby, thank you, thank you.Once again you have pull a rabbit out of a hat. I hadn’t been able to catch the male vocal in this until now and it is a complex song . Two people ,same thoughts but on different wave lengths.Ever since I herd the first song on Voyage, I had the idea all the songs were about them. I still do ,and the story they tell between the lines. I also love the genius of Benny and Bjorn’s changing a note or octave and adding music from their other songs. It’s like The Where’s Waldo of ABBA scores. Broken down once again so the lay person will understand what it’s about beautifully.🎶🎶
This time you went scuba diving into the music, with very precious help from so many smart fans! I mean, the additional background vocals of B&B and their timing; the other SOS nods right at the beginning and most of all the Jingle Bells story! Yet I still think the drums should have been emboldened - like in The Visitors when they build up and smash -, especially when Agnetha sings the "I bang (...) the wheel" line, while drums crash in the background elsewhere like in an orchestra but in lesser dramatic moments. All in all you and your peers have surpassed the already ingenuous previous analysis with this one. Makes me wonder "what next"? Bravo!
Well, next time I'll be simply sitting in my garden, watching clouds sail with the breeze. And talk a little about "Bumblebee" :-) Thanks for your kind feedback. This video is one of my favorite analyses, also thanks to the many great contributions. Cheers, Pedro!
As a late observation, nearly three months ago when first playing Voyage (and hearing "Keep An Eye On Dan" for the first time), I was gripped as the story unfolded and I was immediately reminded of the mood and emotions of "Hey Hey Helen". The relationship breakdown where children are involved feels interwoven for the characters in both songs... "Is it worth the pain to see the children cry? Does it hurt when they ask for daddy?" 💗
I luv the dolby atmos analysis to this cause it shines out all the magnificent hidden b.vocals and(even Bjorns' heartboken part) and the detailful instumentation that unfortunatetly aren't audible as much as could be in the final edition.And they are so damned thrilling good!I enjoy even more a great "ultra dance dj"mix (about 7 min)available in utube.BB Thanks again for your splendid dare i say "tutorial" analysis.We luv your job.-
@@susannamariavanzylvanzyl6434Hi susana.Yes indeed.Benny has openly talked about it and has triumpantly overtaken that problem being "clean" for about the last 20years as far as i remember from one video i had seen of him talking on that subject.It has been reported that Bjorn had a similar-,possibly seldom- issue on it and it's all ok now.But seemed no further details were openly anounced as far as i know.
Fascinating yet again!! I was astounded by the counter story from the boys that you just don't hear in the song. Such a huge amount of effort for something that totally missed unless you totally discect the song as you have done. I am continually amazed by the detail and intuition that you and other contributors make when analysing these new songs. It really has given me a deeper understanding of the sheer brilliance of B&B and makes me love my favourite group more! Keep up the good work Bobby. My ABBA FB group are also loving these videos too!
Great analysis. I liked especially the comparision of that song's structure to the structure of the song "The Visitiors" (including a big contast between the verse and the chorus). Very good point! I am looking forward to hearing the next analysis about that cute bumblebee :-).
after a half sleepless night I had to listen to the complete Kate Bush songs again, because i could not remember the title of which I had to think, when listening to "Keep an eye on Dan". Finally got it: "Cloudbusting" Listen to it as a whole, or skip to 0`43 ruclips.net/video/pllRW9wETzw/видео.html there you have it. The first appearance of the "motiv" is in the violins. (identic memorable rhythm used by Benny, Kate Bush uses at the first appearance (I don´t know the key, but pretending it were d minor as in Kepp an eye on Dan) d d e d d e d. later the inversion d d c d d c d which is exactly what Benny brings and sings.
"Keep An Eye On Dan" was the most puzzling of the song titles for me as well when I first saw the tracklist. And when I read the first lines of the chorus online, before the album came out, I even thought it would be one of Björn's tongue-in-cheek lyrics, like in "Two For The Price Of One" or "Why Dit It Have To Be Me". How wrong I was! For me, this is one of ABBA's most dramatic, heartpounding and real songs ever. When I say "heartpounding", I specifically mean the drums that you also singled out. They literally make my heart race, because they emphasize the drama of the song so much. The song itself reminded me most of "The Visitors" when I first heard it. I just love that juxtaposition when listening to the synth part in each song: It's so disco and danceable, but at the same time, it brings out so much of the anxiety of the story. And that anxiety is of course also felt in Agnetha's stunning delivery! I especially get chills when she sings "Certain that I'm out of sight" - her voice really sounds scared when she sings that - and when Frida comes in on "But I said goodbye and I did not cry". Again, thank you for those fascinating insights, Bobby's Brother! I always look forward to you looking into the Dolby Atmos mix in each of these videos. To hear different sections/vocals singled out is always so fascinating to me. I didn't even notice the melody at the beginning wasn't a synth but a human voice until now! When I first listened to this song, I was disappointed with how little you can hear of what the men actually are singing. But now, after watching your review, I realize it might even have been intentional, which I think is just brilliant! And hearing how much is going on in the background with all those different instruments blew my mind - bravo, ABBA! Looking forward to your video on "Bumblebee"!
Yes Yes! This is so beautifully written, I feel exactly the same way! It's a fantastic song! It impressed me from the beginning and now after the analysis the perception of the song is even more intense! I am engrossed in the song and the interpretation! 💝❤💔❤🔥💖
АВВА замечательная группа,мы поклонники очень рады что АВВА вновь собрались вместе,и записали 10 песен,песни прекрасные...Спасибо за музыку АВВА...здоровье вам, любви,счастье,добра...очень вас любим...С Новым2023 годом!
Another wonderful analysis - you have an amazing gift of uncovering new things for us to think about. As you mention, this song is shares a lot with the Visitors. The "cold war" reference is relevant... it is like a cold war / hostile thoughts / not listening to eachother after a failed relationship.. Your link with Chess was something new to me... It made me think of one of B&B's most powerful songs from there, "Pity The Child" (Would love to your analysis on that, it is a stunning track). Keep an Eye shows the perspective from the parents, whereas Pity the Child shows the feeling from the subject (the child, though grown up now).. It is, as you say an evolution of the song between now and then, which Voyage does so well... Thanks for the shout out - you made my day!
The back and forth of the men’s vocals with the women’s reminds me of SOS from Mamma Mia! The Movie when Meryl Streep and Pierce Brosnan have their backs to each other against a wall singing their thoughts though the other cannot hear them.
Another excellent observation! And again, it's "SOS"! Generally, I'm convinced "Mamma Mia!" plays a much more important role into paving the way for "Voyage" than people would think.
@ Bobby's Brother: My eyes literally bugged out when my comment about the song's Bridge so prominently appeared at 8:24. It's such a pleasant bolt out of the blue. Such insight! A Demon's Chant: the sound of a couple out of love; unable to communicate. It's amazing that you had isolated Bjorn and Benny's background vocals so clearly, and how they relate to that Mix of Beautiful Sound. Even with repeated listens, and with this newfound knowledge, it's still hard to tease apart the background vocals (only bits and pieces). The song just work on many levels - even subliminal. To have my Cry into the wilderness returned. With answer and insight. Sweet Karma. I knew I wasn't crazy.
Again a well done analysis,with perfectly pointed out overlaps and recitations to ABBA's body of work. Now, you can also dive into ABBA-lyrics and actually write a book about the painful side of a relationship. Starting with SOS, when the honeymoon is over and the begging and fighting and longing, for a love to keep going on. The end of "I can be that woman", though full of hope, finally offers no solution of the described problems, leading to "The winner takes it all". Finally after years of distance and winning insight, the relationship comes full circle in "Don't shut me down", then - Happy end???
Your video has improved my impression of that song. When I listened to it, my thoughts were that if Dan behaved himself they wouldn't have to worry about him getting out of hand sometimes. I very much look forward to your thoughts on 'Bumblebee', which is one of my favourites off Voyage.
Awesome, so many great observations! I've never thought about it, but this parts, when they are all singing in a kind of back & forth conversation, are so distinctive. PS: Some more charakters from ABBA-Songs: Alice Whiting, Livingstone, Harry, Joe (the homecoming brother in "Crazy World"), Elaine ... :)
Yes, there are far more fictional characters throughout ABBA's legacy - thanks for pointing them out! I simply listed those appearing in song titles, like Dan. Livingstone, however, is based on a real-life physician David Livingstone. Cheers!
@@bobbysbrother137 _What about Livingstone_ is a big appreciation of scienctists and science we need so darely in these times. A big _thank you_ to those who _have sacrified their lives to lead the way._
I adore how you show us the elements, isolated vocals and instruments. It shows how extra complex the songs really are! I would adore just listening to an album of these!
2 года назад
Thank you for all these videos from Voyage series. It helps us enjoy even more all the songs of this great album!
People like Bobby's brother who have a 'gift' of knowing their music 🎶 is a fantastic Learning curve to such as myself who don't have that ..his knowledge is a bonus to us all & makes listening to ABBA songs even more appreciated.
I love this song so much and every listen made me wonder why it struck exactly the right chord. Thanks so much for stripping it right down and highlighting all the elements which mesh together so cleverly and ultimately are definitive ABBA!! :)
Wow! This is by far the best analyses of any song. you've done a masterful job analyzing the structure, chorus, the meaning, etc. What caught my attention in this song when I heard it first were the ethereal chorus of Bjorn and Benny; it creates a subliminal effect. You've done a great job in extracting it and analyzing. By my estimation this is the best song of the album.
Really interesting hearing the mens lines which I didn't hear properly in the song, and the cross referencing each other. I a little surprised you didn't mention the strong link to the Per Gessle track '72' and Roxette's track 'Good Karma' I mentioned to you on a previous video? I think there is an unmistakable link here and they must have been influenced by this as its almost the same? It also forms the most recognisable part of the whole song. They were friends with Roxette I think and did collaborate on stuff since splitting. Great analysis though and really enjoyed watching it, bravo! Feel its been a long wait since last album track synopsis, but worth it! ;)
Most possibly I just didn't come up to that very comment yet. I'll be listening into both songs, but I really like the connection you've pointed out. There might still be room in a future episode ;-) Cheers!
This is nothing short of a mini documentary with such multilayered content that rivals an ABBA song and indeed KAEOD itself. I gained a completely new appreciation for this song especially after hearing the Boys manic backing vocals. I think of this song now as an official heir to any songs on The Visitors album especially the chorus of TFTPOO Benny and Bjorn’s own ABBA mating calls .... Dear Bobby’s Brother , these short videos are real academic research materials fit anyone who wants to study the great Nordic Saga called ABBA in depth. I miss seeing your face in the videos but your visuals more than making up for it: I mean how wondrous it is seeing Agnetha and Frida dashing through the snow in the KMKY video as you are referring to that Christmas song ? TAK 👦👋😎
This series is proving so popular I think when you've finished the voyage review you will have to return to the very beginning of the abba recordings and,one by one ,analyse every song...lol....this should keep you occupied for maybe 2 or 3 years....? The fans would love it....🤩
This song is a strong earworm to me. Hard to get it out once it's there. However to me it seems also to be the most pitch corrected song regarding vocals on this album. I still makes sense as this song is not pretending not to be inspired with '80 electronic depressive rock with vocoders and all this stuff. but I would love to hear real raw material for a reference just from pure curiosity.
What an excellent analysis of a really complex tune! When I heard “Dan” for the first time, I got this really strong Erasure vibe throughout but now Dirk mentioned Kate Bush and Depeche Mode, I can totally see that as well. Gemini as a whole project eludes me, even though I know how important it was for B&B back in the 80’s. (I should pick up those albums). What I absolutely love about the song, though, is the layers in Agnetha’s voice. Regardless of the passing of time, it’s the interpretation that kills me in such a sweet and strong way. She IS that woman pleading her ex to keep an eye on their son, feeling so conflicted about her own thoughts on the man, which in turn are bounced by B&B’s harmonies towards the end on the song. This song needs to be a part of the “Voyage” setlist! Do you see it happen?
Thanks for pointing out yet another of Agnetha's excellent performances. After all, she really captures all these emotions so perfectly, the incredible storyteller she is. If the song is the next single that is talked about, then it is also supposed to be included in the concert.
This song actually gives me chills as it's so close to home. The subject matter is so powerful. ABBADiego's description gave me many lightbulb moments too. Just incredible. Oh, and by the way, I got an absolute shock to see my quote about Gemini used in your video here 😯💗💗 Wonderful seeing all the angles of the song, the background vocals etc. (I do believe my ABBA wound at age 13 is beginning to heal 🙏) 💗
I really enjoy how you tear these songs apart; note by note and lyric by lyric. Like you made mention if you hadn’t we may have missed some crucial words behind the main chorus. Love that I can listen to some new (and old) ABBA! This has been a long time coming. I thoroughly love their musical contributions.
The best they can do is release Keep an Eye on Dan, the best song from the Voyage album, in February as the 5th single with an extra disco version, guaranteed success. The Album Voyage is brilliant but I miss a 70s disco song in it.
Super duper BB, as always. I will now need to arrange to listen to SOS and Keep an Eye on Dan together and possibly The Visitors too. So much more to these songs than meets the eye for sure. Keep up the great work.
There's so much going on in all of these songs, and I'm sure they don't even consciously realize it. They just work from their heart, and that's reflected in all of these layers and cross-references. Thanks, Ed!
Thank you so much! Listening to your breakdown of the boys' backing track ws so informative and helped make complete sense of the song. Keep An Eye on Dan is one of my favourites on the album. Its the one that is suck in my head so to speak, and the one I'm always singing around the house, when I'm cleaning, driving and shopping🙂
My god, this album is truly a masterpiece. The way that the words sung by Benny and Bjorn blend in with the girls voices is just amazing . I had no idea what the boys were singing until I saw your video. Thank you again for such a brilliant review,as always. YOU ARE THE BEST!!!
I admire so much ABBA s creativity, talent .It shows in every song. ABBAVOYAGE is a masterpiece , the voices , music ! Benny Bjorn Agnetha Anni Frid 💗💗💗💗👏👏👏👏
When Benny and Bjorn are singing near the end is it Funny how quickly it takes me, or Funny how it really takes me? I've seen one for Funny how quickly it takes me and I can hear both, I cant distinguish which it is!
Hello, Bobby's Brother! You have analyzed very well this song, and the relation with S.O.S. song. And, the harmony of their voices that I Love when I am listening their songs. So, I have learned something about ABBA'S legacy with your EXCELLENT video. Thank you very much. Greetings and be safe!!😊
I LOVE THE SMALL REFERENCES, TO ABBA'S BACK CATALOGUE. AND TO TWO OF AGNETHA'S AND ANNI-FRID'S SOLO SONGS. WHEN I FIRST HEARD THIS SONG, KEEP AN EYE ON DAN, I COULDN'T HELP, BUT TO THINK OF AGNETHA'S LOVE INTEREST, IN THE VIDEO: THE DAY BEFORE YOU CAME. A BIT FUNNY. AGAIN AGAIN AGAIN, BJØRN'S LYRICS ARE TO DIE FOR. THE GEMINI ALBUMS, AND THE JOSEFIN NILSSON ALBUM ( MAY SHE REST IN PEACE ), SHOULD BE IN EVERYONES RECORD COLLECTION. THEY ARE VERY MUCH UNDERRATED MUSICAL GEMS. AGAIN AGAIN AGAIN, AGNETHA AND ANNI-FRID HARMONIZE, SO THAT THIRD VOICE JUST COMES EXPLODING, THROUGH YOUR LOUDSPEAKERS. BJØRN AND BENNY, MY ABBASOLUTE FAVE COMPOSERS OF ALL TIME 🥰🥰🥰🥰
At 9:52 and 10:09, I hear "I won't forget to park here on Sunday to get him" (i.e. the handovers between ex-partners is in a neutral location, not at the houses of either of the two exes) - although this line would imply the Sunday at Seven is for him to pick up Dan, rather than for him to hand Dan back to her, so that doesn't fit with the rest of the song.
The drums leading to first chorus is like there is that tension and hesitancy of the narrator letting Dan away and the way she describes her feelings towards her ex husband. It is possible that the narrator had still some feelings for Dan's dad as they see often, but she is wasn't sure if it is real or not.
When I fist listened to this I instantly loved the melody. I feel its the best song on the album. Although I cant relate to the lyrics , I love the music, I wish someone would make an instrumental remix. Your dissection of the song was excellant. Its to bad the mens chorus is mixed so low beneath Frida and Agnetha. As you've shown the structure of the chorus is brilliant. And shows us how unique the ABBA sound is. How talented Benny and Bjorn are when composing a song. They are simpatico in melding music and lyrics. The lyrics are simplistic, but are direct and never abstract. Each song is in its own "universe" a complete story or feeling conveyed. Not many bands or groups can be so clear in their music,past and even more so today. There in a class of their own. Still so talented and prolific in their older years. Which just shows us that talent never leaves a person. Creativity never leaves, it just hibernates for a time. Then a feeling , an idea, a story is created in the mind. A spark is lit and then unfolds and grows and blossoms when 4 people get together again......🎼🎵🎶🎵🎶🎵🎶
Another fascinating delve into one of the very best songs on Voyage. On the night of the great reveal, this was the song I wanted to most hear a second time - and that’s what I did as soon as the album dropped. (Funny how it was the one that - from the title alone - sounded worryingly flimsy.) There’s something musically intriguing about it - and whilst I hadn’t picked up the references to Chess and Gemini immediately on hearing Dan, now I do. Thank you.. I also commented at the time, when the BV lyrics were revealed, that they somehow feel deliberately ‘lost’ in the background - the female protagonist is full of anxiety, and simply doesn’t hear the man’s words - perhaps they are even just his thoughts as he says to himself “she must have lost some weight” so he’s not even expecting her to hear them. So, as you say, there are two perspectives at play simultaneously in this cleverly constructed song. I think Benny was right to include the nod to SOS - who could do that if not ABBA? But it also makes me feel like it is a hopeless situation and a traumatic event indeed.
Thank you for another insightful video!! I never noticed how this track could have been linked to the previous track on the album. Plus I like your analysis of the call and responses during the ending part of the song!
The ABBAs will always be the best group in the world to me. I play their music daily because it makes me happy and reminds me of my eldest daughter Maria who died of cancer at the age of 48. She loved their music When I hear their music I remember all the good times we enjoyed together.
0:44! lol...Love it.Agnetha's still wearing her headphones the same way she used to.Some girls never change...fortunately.
Yes,I loved her look in gimme, gimme, gimme 😋
The dolby atmos series to VOYAGE album from this channel made me love them even more.A perfect deconstruction that digged out its multiple hidden treasures .
I love how layered every ABBA composition is. This analysis makes me appreciate this track even more. There’s no arguing that Benny’s music is a masterpiece but some may overlook Bjorn’s lyrics as simplistic. There’s so much to his lyrics beneath the surface and you’ve done a wonderful job deconstructing that to help us understand how complicated and intentional they are. I’ve loved your entire series of vids on Voyage. Thank you for helping fans appreciate this monumental gift to us fans.
Thanks for pointing out Björn's lyrics. It's always easy to dismiss these things, but you just have to look further into it, if you are willing to. Nothing is arbitrary, they are artists in the true sense. Thanks for your heartwarming words, appreciate it very much!
@@bobbysbrother137 Björn has a wonderful ability to capture the feeling of a song appropriate to the mood. So, say for a song like Dancing Queen, the simple lyrics fit the context. "Friday night and the lights are low. Looking out of a place to go". Simple, short sentences, like if you were in a nightclub, you would use short sentences... On the opposite, take "The Visitors" which extemely articulately paints a picture - its a work of art, bursting with layers of complex descriptions and hidden meaning... If you read "Cassandra" as you would a poem, the lyrical rhythym is like a beating drum.. da da da.. da da da... da da da... it is story like.. Looker deeper into other songs, you illiteration, similes, all sorts of rhythmic patterns, rhyming patterns... For me Bjorns lyrics are up there with Michae Stipe in their ability to set a scene, then tell a story...
9:22-till the end of the 'hidden messages section"...no matter it's nearly 3 years since released i still melt.
I'm so glad that you're out there doing these reviews and sharing in them all these rich details that you observe. You are giving this album the treatment it deserves. This is by far the content I enjoyed the most in the Voyage era besides the album itself.
Oh wow, these are some big words, truly heartwarming. Thanks a lot, Julian!! I'm happy to contribute a little somethin' - it's just so much fun putting it all together, and makes me happy it's appreciated.
Perhaps the most intriguing track of the album. The only one that offers a tantalizing sound of a hypothetical ABBA if they had continued in the 80's. Pity that they mixed the male voices too low to discern all the words well.
I find this fascinating. Especially because I've always loved ABBA's arrangements and was always so curious about their recording process. Back in the day, we heard very little about ABBA behind the scenes. As they have always been so private, humble and reserved. Very grateful for this new experience....all these years later...my love for and interest in them has never gone away. How fortunate I am for that.
Very lovely words, Rodney. Couldn't agree more with you - ABBA are just there to make music, put it out, and leave a legacy, which is then up to us to figure out. They are adorably humble.
I'm still amazed of how complex these songs are! One of my faves on this album, for sure! And I can't describe the warmness that I feel inside with the interpolation of SOS in the whole song, the end of the song with that "wink" is just the cherry on top haha. Such an amazing video! And thank you for the shoutout!
The ending paid tribute to 'sos' which was a thoroughly clever way to end the record. ..keep up the great reviews Bobby's brother 👍
ABBA STILL CREATES MAGIC, one of the GREATEST GROUPS EVER
I LOVE Keep An Eye on Dan. Ever since I first heard Benny and Björn’s “secret” vocals I’ve told everyone I know and had them listen😅😅 I just find this so ingenious, burying a whole other perspective in the mix. It serves the storytelling so brilliantly and and is super catchy as well!
Thank you again for a wonderful insight video! I totally agree that this song is one of the highlights of "Voyage" and of the entire ABBA canon. I want to say that the voice singing the synth line in the intro is actually Agnetha and not Benny. I was surprised to discover this when I extracted the vocals from the rear channels of the 5.1 Atmos mix. I did incorporate it in the intro of the mix I did and it sounds like a female human voice.
The song is a masterpiece of Bjorn's storytelling. It has the best first line of a song I have heard in decades! It sets the stage for the very intriguing storyline. "Keep An Eye On Dan" is not just catchy as a phrase, but as a melody. It could be an expression that could go viral on Tik Tok, Instagram, and YT. You very cleverly deconstructed the unique relationship between Benny and Bjorn's backing vocals lyrics and the girls' lyrics. I hadn't thought of out in such detail, but it certainly makes sense. I am hopeful that it will be released as a single, but maybe just before the first concert in May. It would be great for it to become a hit single at that time. I am sure you saw the email from Universal mentioning "No Doubt About It." Perhaps, this is an interim single?
I am looking forward to the remaining insights into "Voyage", especially "Ode To Fteedom." For me, OTF is the modern day companion and at least as relevant as John Lennon's "Imagine." Both songs are a response to the troubles and struggles the world is facing. While Lennon's lyrics are written from an idealist view of what the world could be, Bjorn's lyrics are written based on the current reality of the political, economic, and cultural divisions and a sense of frustration regarding the solution. Yet both long for the same thing, a "world that will live as one" (Lennon), and a "wish someone would write an Ode to Freedom that we all could sing" (Ulvaeus). The humanist in Bjorn shines through loud and clear!
Hi Bobby's brother! When i saw the song title I had no idea what to expect!! As it turned out it is yet another Agnetha masterpiece and of course the excellent back up by Frida & the sheer excellence of both guys in the construction of the song 🎵
How remarkably beautiful the voices of AGNETHA and AniFrid absolutely
Thank you BB once again, for the intriguing review! Totally awesome track with so many details.
Another great video.
Dan: After many listens, Dan “could be” a special needs child. Who knows, but within the song you get an angst from a mother handing over her son to a father that she suspects does not completely understand the young boy. I also managed to get a version, from motownboy (well done on the best remix ever done), motownboy “boosted” the male backing in his remix. There you hear Benny and Björn even clearer than in the Atmos parts.
Also when I listened in the first few days, I noticed that in the beginning of the song, the male backing is not there, but when Dan is handed over, the male part enters. It, to me was when the boy is “handed over” with the father saying to the mother “it really is OK, I have him now and I of course know what I am doing”.
The two and fro in the latter part of the songs goes along side the tug of war that goes on with the change of the mother in second chorus, turning the screws on the father from not just coming back on Sunday, but specifying an actual precise time she will be back. Almost like she is not trusting him to be at the place to hand him over. Some people even went so far as to say, perhaps the mother never returns to collect him, but I don’t see it that way. It’s a tug of war, in the physical sence but also in the mental state of both mother and father.
I am glad Benny put the outro back as I makes the song end on a very dubious note. Is all well on Sundays or is this just one of many awful Sundays for a worried mother.
The comments on his weight, her weight shows us the past disdain each had for the other, but time has passed and both moved on and probably look after themselves better now than when they were together.
I do hope this gets a single release. In any case I’ve gone a step further and had a special one off 12” made which I’ll do a video about when I unbox the parcel.
It’s a fantastic song that most likely will be passed over for a time but then will awaken much as The Day Before You Came did after people finally understood it.
So many fantastic additional observations here. I know this song means a lot to you, and I love these different angles. I was also noticing the specific time mentioned in the 2nd verse - this is brilliant! As are your observations about how husband and wife (ex) now appreciate each other more than before. I agree, the ending with "SOS" adds so much to the song.
Making Plans For Nigel - XTC
I'd love to hear motownboy's remix you made it sound wonderful
@@williamforbes5985 look for it by putting in a search, keep an eye on Dan (melbourne) seems the Motownboy1 version got removed but someone else uploaded it too, it’s still there.
Thank you for this really great analysis! Getting to hear clearly the wonderful background vocals by the guys brings a wider perspective to this great track. It sounds like the most natural artistic progression of ABBA without losing their link to their past sound. It's like other classic ABBA songs, simple on the surface, with a sad complexity on the inside. I actually didn't immediately hear the link to SOS. A brilliant piece of work, an album highlight for me.
@Bobby's Brother
I just re-listened/watched this video. This analysis with the input of the other Abba appreciators is absolutely brilliant. "Dan" may be one of ABBA's best pieces of work, but it is also one of your finest moments, BB! :) Please continue your VOYAGE detailed song series!!!
I have to admit that I having been anxiously awaiting this video - and it exceeded my expectations! Like you, when we only knew the title, I was quite curious, especially with my name being Dan. When I finally got to hear it, it was amazingly well done and enjoyable. I immediately like the melody and the sound. It took a little while to get the full impact of the lyrics, but once I got them, there is no denying it is a powerful song. I think this is the song I play most often from Voyage, and hence why I was looking forward to your video.
You outdid yourself. I knew that there were male backing voices, and I could make out some of them, but with this video, I have a new and different understanding of the song. Thank you! I agree with you, the talking past each other does make the situation seem inevitable, and though the potential for reconciliation exists, it seems unlikely that they can reach it.
I appreciate your insights and efforts.
Very cool to hear, my dear Dan! Thank for the big appreciation!!
Wow, just WOW!!! What a phenomenal deep dive into this awesome track. I want to play this through several more times because I need to process everything you are conveying in your video. But when I realised the father was singing "my Dan", it choked me up! Here we have the anxiety of the mother juxtaposed with the father who will take care of his beloved Dan.
Yeah I'm going to do the same..listen it through a few times just to take in what everyone especially Bobby's brother has pointed out..funny how it takes a while sometimes to totally 'digest' what exactly is going on in 'ABBA 🎵'
It's fun both ways - to pay attention for all these details ("Don't Shut Me Down" is so intriguing in these regards, especially the more the song builds!), but it's also so much fun, of course, to just take it all in as it is, and not think too much about it.
Thankyou Bobby's Brother for the in depth analysis of the structure and arrangements of this song ,it totally enhances its amazing beauty.NOW, this song has mesmerised and captivated me from my very first listening and has done so every time I play it ,it is very emotional to me .The music is haunting and very unnerving, which sets me into the scene of a very awkward situation after a relationship breakdown and the fallout of the tragedy which ,with the child being the common thread that won't let their relationship move on ,and we even hear in the lyrics that maybe it's not over, maybe their is a chance of reconnection reconciliation and forgiveness. The actual beat of the song feels more like a rapid heartbeat filled with fear anxiety and apprehension, and OMG how Agnetha puts so much emotion into every syllable, with her voice ,could this song be a little autobiographical maybe,Agnetha and Bjorn with Christian, all those years ago,just a theory. This is so,so,so pure ABBA a song that in just four minutes suspends belief and makes me so absorbed in a very uncomfortable situation that to me seems to be the perfect sequel to "The winner takes it.all",this song contains EVERY element and the definitive essence that is ABBA ,pure,absorbing and music perfection. If I had to play just one song to someone who have never heard of ABBA ( impossible I know),this would be it,it contains every element and definition that IS ABBA
WOW! Perfectly written! I couldn't have written it better! From the first listen I was captivated by the song, it is absolutely unique, emotional, really so flawlessly written and performed, perfect like ABBA herself. And I also think that song is missing from the ABBA Voyage show, it should have been featured, it's a huge shame.... My opinion is that more new songs from the Voyage album should have been featured, rather than just the two tracks...
Excellent BB ! enjoyed this, especially learning and understanding what the guys are chanting in the background....made a difference for sure. KAEOD is definitely one of the highlights on VOYAGE
Thank you for this deep dive. The words the men sang makes my heart ache a little for couples who get divorced because somehow, they are unable to make the connection to make the marriage work. Yet, they can still care for each other and their children.
Some people have commented on the "up tempo" beat of the music.
I don't think of the beat as up tempo but URGENT and Anxious. Great music, great lyrics, beautifully sung by ABBA.
Keep an eye on Dan is my absolute favourite track from Voyage. The vocals, the melody, lyrics, and musical treatment are outstanding. It's an uptempo track with serious lyrical content.
WOW...you've surpassed yourself on this one bb....the research you've put into the analysis of this amazing song is huge...I think this is another one of my favourite songs on voyage...I love the use of the violin to give that sense of urgency....also the dramatic drum use for the same reason....I have waited to hear the boys backing vocals clearly,so thanks for that....absolutely brilliant....I wish,though that they were more audible in the finished song...they are too fantastic to be hidden in the background....this album just gets better and better....thanks for all the work you put into these amazing videos...I really appreciate your dedication..Ireland .
Thanks so much for saying these kind words, Frankly! It's just so much fun putting all the pieces together. Love your additional thoughts about the violin and dramatic drums. Cheers to Ireland!
Yes! the album just gets better and better. Keep an Eye on Dan is my standout and thanks BB for dissecting so we know what the guys are saying in response to the girls. This song leaves me in tears every time I play it and I've never even had children to go through that pain. This track is a masterpiece.
Brilliant dissection of this beautiful track. You are the best,my friend! Bravo! 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
The songs in Abba Voyage really mimic a DaVinci painting: they're full of symbolism, layers and layers of meaning, that to the untrained ear may even appear "simplistic" (I remember some appalling reviews by some papers). However, the more you delve into their layers, you can see the sheer amount of work it takes to do all this (as a musician myself); each song is just given enough wink in the eye for you to go in there and start peeling off (like the SOS riff), and make your own meaning out of it. Thanks, BB, our true Indiana Jones for Abba songs.
Beautifully said. Thanks a lot, Marcos!! And I'm happy to be your Indiana Jones on this adventurous journey, to investigate, explorate and dissect all things "Voyage".
Thanks again for another brillant analysis and all the best for you 🤍
All the Best to you, too, Tom!
It is unbelievable for me how you can take a song down to pieces Bobby's brother. This is amazing work you have been doing on Voyage, really fantastically meticulous. Your analysis made me aware of something as silly as finding out that B and B are actually singing on Keep an eye on Dan ;))))), but also pointing out precious details that would never have come to my mind otherwise. Thanks a lot. :))) I very much hope to read about the other Voyage pieces. Have a good week. :))
I'm very happy reading this. Thanks a lot, Dorota, but also shout-out to all the great contributions from Sam & others that complement the analysis. Cheers!!
I always wondered what the Benny/Björn backing vocals said. It's very romantic and sweet to see, and adds something quite unusual in ABBA: they are letting the addressee finally sing his part of the song and give his own thoughts on the matter.
And yes, it's quite heartbreaking the fact that even in this rare instance only us, the audience, are able to hear (barely) both sides of the story, as the characters will never realize the fact that there is still hope.
Note: oh God the SOS reference is so dark.
Love your additional thoughts and perspective. Captures the essence of this song for me. Thanks, Ludius!
Hello
Wow 🤩 I honestly have to say your analysis of all these songs are amazing and I love how you break down each part then bring it all together with all the layers and cross referencing 🙌 Bravo BB I always look forward to your vids since I found your channel 💕 You really do help me understand the songs arrangements so much more clearly 💕 Benny and Bjorns vocals and Agnetha and Fridas are so hauntingly beautiful within this song 🎵 and I agree wholeheartedly it’s a reminiscent of the 80s sound
Hey Hey Bobby, thank you, thank you.Once again you have pull a rabbit out of a hat. I hadn’t been able to catch the male vocal in this until now and it is a complex song . Two people ,same thoughts but on different wave lengths.Ever since I herd the first song on Voyage, I had the idea all the songs were about them. I still do ,and the story they tell between the lines. I also love the genius of Benny and Bjorn’s changing a note or octave and adding music from their other songs. It’s like The Where’s Waldo of ABBA scores.
Broken down once again so the lay person will understand what it’s about beautifully.🎶🎶
Thanks, Fritzie. And I agree, the songs on "Voyage" seem to be more personal than ever before.
This time you went scuba diving into the music, with very precious help from so many smart fans! I mean, the additional background vocals of B&B and their timing; the other SOS nods right at the beginning and most of all the Jingle Bells story! Yet I still think the drums should have been emboldened - like in The Visitors when they build up and smash -, especially when Agnetha sings the "I bang (...) the wheel" line, while drums crash in the background elsewhere like in an orchestra but in lesser dramatic moments. All in all you and your peers have surpassed the already ingenuous previous analysis with this one. Makes me wonder "what next"? Bravo!
Well, next time I'll be simply sitting in my garden, watching clouds sail with the breeze. And talk a little about "Bumblebee" :-) Thanks for your kind feedback. This video is one of my favorite analyses, also thanks to the many great contributions. Cheers, Pedro!
What a very beautiful backing track is to this one.9:21-10:15 those vocals 'marching in"/11:26-12:05 MAGICAL!
As a late observation, nearly three months ago when first playing Voyage (and hearing "Keep An Eye On Dan" for the first time), I was gripped as the story unfolded and I was immediately reminded of the mood and emotions of "Hey Hey Helen". The relationship breakdown where children are involved feels interwoven for the characters in both songs... "Is it worth the pain to see the children cry? Does it hurt when they ask for daddy?" 💗
Yes,very well observed....Helen is one of my all time faves...a work of genius 👏
👍 Thanx so much! Very interesting! Great Analyse!!
Thanks a lot, Nevsefed. Love your profile pic ("I got to say I'm glad")!
I luv the dolby atmos analysis to this cause it shines out all the magnificent hidden b.vocals and(even Bjorns' heartboken part) and the detailful instumentation that unfortunatetly aren't audible as much as could be in the final edition.And they are so damned thrilling good!I enjoy even more a great "ultra dance dj"mix (about 7 min)available in utube.BB Thanks again for your splendid dare i say "tutorial" analysis.We luv your job.-
The only person that had a alcohol problem was Benny
@@susannamariavanzylvanzyl6434Hi susana.Yes indeed.Benny has openly talked about it and has triumpantly overtaken that problem being "clean" for about the last 20years as far as i remember from one video i had seen of him talking on that subject.It has been reported that Bjorn had a similar-,possibly seldom- issue on it and it's all ok now.But seemed no further details were openly anounced as far as i know.
Fascinating yet again!! I was astounded by the counter story from the boys that you just don't hear in the song. Such a huge amount of effort for something that totally missed unless you totally discect the song as you have done. I am continually amazed by the detail and intuition that you and other contributors make when analysing these new songs. It really has given me a deeper understanding of the sheer brilliance of B&B and makes me love my favourite group more! Keep up the good work Bobby. My ABBA FB group are also loving these videos too!
❤👍👍👍👍👍
7:18-8.24....magical.
I love love love Keep an Eye on Dan!! great piece!!!
Perfect pop, as only Abba can do it! Insanely catchy, with wonderful pop hooks galore! Unique lyrics too.
Great analysis. I liked especially the comparision of that song's structure to the structure of the song "The Visitiors" (including a big contast between the verse and the chorus). Very good point! I am looking forward to hearing the next analysis about that cute bumblebee :-).
A perfect analysis! Thank you man for sharing all these valuable points with us. This song is absolutely incredible ...
thank you for this enlightening analysis, to which I was able to add some small ideas.
after a half sleepless night I had to listen to the complete Kate Bush songs again, because i could not remember the title of which I had to think, when listening to "Keep an eye on Dan". Finally got it: "Cloudbusting" Listen to it as a whole, or skip to 0`43 ruclips.net/video/pllRW9wETzw/видео.html there you have it. The first appearance of the "motiv" is in the violins. (identic memorable rhythm used by Benny, Kate Bush uses at the first appearance (I don´t know the key, but pretending it were d minor as in Kepp an eye on Dan) d d e d d e d. later the inversion d d c d d c d which is exactly what Benny brings and sings.
"Keep An Eye On Dan" was the most puzzling of the song titles for me as well when I first saw the tracklist. And when I read the first lines of the chorus online, before the album came out, I even thought it would be one of Björn's tongue-in-cheek lyrics, like in "Two For The Price Of One" or "Why Dit It Have To Be Me". How wrong I was! For me, this is one of ABBA's most dramatic, heartpounding and real songs ever. When I say "heartpounding", I specifically mean the drums that you also singled out. They literally make my heart race, because they emphasize the drama of the song so much. The song itself reminded me most of "The Visitors" when I first heard it. I just love that juxtaposition when listening to the synth part in each song: It's so disco and danceable, but at the same time, it brings out so much of the anxiety of the story. And that anxiety is of course also felt in Agnetha's stunning delivery! I especially get chills when she sings "Certain that I'm out of sight" - her voice really sounds scared when she sings that - and when Frida comes in on "But I said goodbye and I did not cry".
Again, thank you for those fascinating insights, Bobby's Brother! I always look forward to you looking into the Dolby Atmos mix in each of these videos. To hear different sections/vocals singled out is always so fascinating to me. I didn't even notice the melody at the beginning wasn't a synth but a human voice until now! When I first listened to this song, I was disappointed with how little you can hear of what the men actually are singing. But now, after watching your review, I realize it might even have been intentional, which I think is just brilliant! And hearing how much is going on in the background with all those different instruments blew my mind - bravo, ABBA! Looking forward to your video on "Bumblebee"!
Yes Yes! This is so beautifully written, I feel exactly the same way! It's a fantastic song! It impressed me from the beginning and now after the analysis the perception of the song is even more intense! I am engrossed in the song and the interpretation! 💝❤💔❤🔥💖
АВВА замечательная группа,мы поклонники очень рады что АВВА вновь собрались вместе,и записали 10 песен,песни прекрасные...Спасибо за музыку АВВА...здоровье вам, любви,счастье,добра...очень вас любим...С Новым2023 годом!
Another wonderful analysis - you have an amazing gift of uncovering new things for us to think about. As you mention, this song is shares a lot with the Visitors. The "cold war" reference is relevant... it is like a cold war / hostile thoughts / not listening to eachother after a failed relationship.. Your link with Chess was something new to me... It made me think of one of B&B's most powerful songs from there, "Pity The Child" (Would love to your analysis on that, it is a stunning track). Keep an Eye shows the perspective from the parents, whereas Pity the Child shows the feeling from the subject (the child, though grown up now).. It is, as you say an evolution of the song between now and then, which Voyage does so well... Thanks for the shout out - you made my day!
Fascinating and brilliant, THANKS Bobby's B!
The back and forth of the men’s vocals with the women’s reminds me of SOS from Mamma Mia! The Movie when Meryl Streep and Pierce Brosnan have their backs to each other against a wall singing their thoughts though the other cannot hear them.
Another excellent observation! And again, it's "SOS"! Generally, I'm convinced "Mamma Mia!" plays a much more important role into paving the way for "Voyage" than people would think.
@@bobbysbrother137 Absolutely!
awesome analysis! wish they never stop making music.
I love your videos and your interpretations. Thankyou for what you are doing
Many thanks for these encouraging words, Chantel. Much appreciated!!
@ Bobby's Brother: My eyes literally bugged out when my comment about the song's Bridge so prominently appeared at 8:24. It's such a pleasant bolt out of the blue.
Such insight! A Demon's Chant: the sound of a couple out of love; unable to communicate. It's amazing that you had isolated Bjorn and Benny's background vocals so clearly, and how they relate to that Mix of Beautiful Sound. Even with repeated listens, and with this newfound knowledge, it's still hard to tease apart the background vocals (only bits and pieces). The song just work on many levels - even subliminal.
To have my Cry into the wilderness returned. With answer and insight. Sweet Karma.
I knew I wasn't crazy.
Again a well done analysis,with perfectly pointed out overlaps and recitations to ABBA's body of work.
Now, you can also dive into ABBA-lyrics and actually write a book about the painful side of a relationship.
Starting with SOS, when the honeymoon is over and the begging and fighting and longing, for a love to keep going on. The end of "I can be that woman", though full of hope, finally offers no solution of the described problems, leading to "The winner takes it all". Finally after years of distance and winning insight, the relationship comes full circle in "Don't shut me down", then - Happy end???
СПАСИБО!!!!!!и моим любимым шведам (за их музыку, голоса),и Вам..ПОТРЯСАЮЩЕ!!!! Гениально!!! с УВ.Искандер
Your video has improved my impression of that song. When I listened to it, my thoughts were that if Dan behaved himself they wouldn't have to worry about him getting out of hand sometimes. I very much look forward to your thoughts on 'Bumblebee', which is one of my favourites off Voyage.
Awesome, so many great observations! I've never thought about it, but this parts, when they are all singing in a kind of back & forth conversation, are so distinctive. PS: Some more charakters from ABBA-Songs: Alice Whiting, Livingstone, Harry, Joe (the homecoming brother in "Crazy World"), Elaine ... :)
Yes, there are far more fictional characters throughout ABBA's legacy - thanks for pointing them out! I simply listed those appearing in song titles, like Dan. Livingstone, however, is based on a real-life physician David Livingstone. Cheers!
Sam, Annie, Jerry and Sue from Hole in Your Soul!
@@bobbysbrother137 _What about Livingstone_ is a big appreciation of scienctists and science we need so darely in these times. A big _thank you_ to those who _have sacrified their lives to lead the way._
What a brilliant analysis sir. Thank you for uploading it.
I adore how you show us the elements, isolated vocals and instruments. It shows how extra complex the songs really are! I would adore just listening to an album of these!
Thank you for all these videos from Voyage series. It helps us enjoy even more all the songs of this great album!
Bobby, thanks for your analysis of the Greats Legends 👑👑👑🎉 Congratifuls 🎊 Thanks 💕💓🌷🌷💗💞❤️❣️
Abba needs to have their first and only Maxi single with Keep an eye on Dan with like 7 different versions of this song.
People like Bobby's brother who have a 'gift' of knowing their music 🎶 is a fantastic Learning curve to such as myself who don't have that ..his knowledge is a bonus to us all & makes listening to ABBA songs even more appreciated.
What a fantastic work you have done.. ... Excellent
I love this song so much and every listen made me wonder why it struck exactly the right chord. Thanks so much for stripping it right down and highlighting all the elements which mesh together so cleverly and ultimately are definitive ABBA!! :)
Thank you, thank you, thank you. You've made a delightful piece of music even more of a treasure. Brilliant!
So glad you appreciate it. I'm very happy about these kind words! Thanks a lot, dear Diane.
Wow! This is by far the best analyses of any song. you've done a masterful job analyzing the structure, chorus, the meaning, etc. What caught my attention in this song when I heard it first were the ethereal chorus of Bjorn and Benny; it creates a subliminal effect. You've done a great job in extracting it and analyzing. By my estimation this is the best song of the album.
Really interesting hearing the mens lines which I didn't hear properly in the song, and the cross referencing each other. I a little surprised you didn't mention the strong link to the Per Gessle track '72' and Roxette's track 'Good Karma' I mentioned to you on a previous video? I think there is an unmistakable link here and they must have been influenced by this as its almost the same? It also forms the most recognisable part of the whole song. They were friends with Roxette I think and did collaborate on stuff since splitting. Great analysis though and really enjoyed watching it, bravo! Feel its been a long wait since last album track synopsis, but worth it! ;)
Most possibly I just didn't come up to that very comment yet. I'll be listening into both songs, but I really like the connection you've pointed out. There might still be room in a future episode ;-) Cheers!
This is nothing short of a mini documentary with such multilayered content that rivals an ABBA song and indeed KAEOD itself.
I gained a completely new appreciation for this song especially after hearing the Boys manic backing vocals.
I think of this song now as an official heir to any songs on The Visitors album especially the chorus of TFTPOO Benny and Bjorn’s own ABBA mating calls ....
Dear Bobby’s Brother , these short videos are real academic research materials fit anyone who wants to study the great Nordic Saga called ABBA in depth.
I miss seeing your face in the videos but your visuals more than making up for it:
I mean how wondrous it is seeing Agnetha and Frida dashing through the snow in the KMKY video as you are referring to that Christmas song ?
TAK 👦👋😎
Fascinating deconstruction, thank you!
This series is proving so popular I think when you've finished the voyage review you will have to return to the very beginning of the abba recordings and,one by one ,analyse every song...lol....this should keep you occupied for maybe 2 or 3 years....? The fans would love it....🤩
This song is a strong earworm to me. Hard to get it out once it's there.
However to me it seems also to be the most pitch corrected song regarding vocals on this album.
I still makes sense as this song is not pretending not to be inspired with '80 electronic depressive rock with vocoders and all this stuff.
but I would love to hear real raw material for a reference just from pure curiosity.
By far, my favorite track on "Voyage". The only song that I give a 10 out of 10 rating, on the album. 👍😉♪♪♪♥
What an excellent analysis of a really complex tune! When I heard “Dan” for the first time, I got this really strong Erasure vibe throughout but now Dirk mentioned Kate Bush and Depeche Mode, I can totally see that as well. Gemini as a whole project eludes me, even though I know how important it was for B&B back in the 80’s. (I should pick up those albums).
What I absolutely love about the song, though, is the layers in Agnetha’s voice. Regardless of the passing of time, it’s the interpretation that kills me in such a sweet and strong way. She IS that woman pleading her ex to keep an eye on their son, feeling so conflicted about her own thoughts on the man, which in turn are bounced by B&B’s harmonies towards the end on the song. This song needs to be a part of the “Voyage” setlist! Do you see it happen?
Thanks for pointing out yet another of Agnetha's excellent performances. After all, she really captures all these emotions so perfectly, the incredible storyteller she is. If the song is the next single that is talked about, then it is also supposed to be included in the concert.
No Doubt About It is the next single that is talked about.
This song actually gives me chills as it's so close to home. The subject matter is so powerful. ABBADiego's description gave me many lightbulb moments too. Just incredible. Oh, and by the way, I got an absolute shock to see my quote about Gemini used in your video here 😯💗💗 Wonderful seeing all the angles of the song, the background vocals etc. (I do believe my ABBA wound at age 13 is beginning to heal 🙏) 💗
They are two words who describes my thoughts: "Brilliant" and "again", Bobbys Brother! :-)
Thanks, dear Gobi!
Thanks for sharing my comment. You are indeed integral and a true professional. Gracias.
I really enjoy how you tear these songs apart; note by note and lyric by lyric. Like you made mention if you hadn’t we may have missed some crucial words behind the main chorus. Love that I can listen to some new (and old) ABBA! This has been a long time coming. I thoroughly love their musical contributions.
The best they can do is release Keep an Eye on Dan, the best song from the Voyage album, in February as the 5th single with an extra disco version, guaranteed success. The Album Voyage is brilliant but I miss a 70s disco song in it.
Lindos, los amo a los 4, más aún a Benny, es encantador!!
Super duper BB, as always. I will now need to arrange to listen to SOS and Keep an Eye on Dan together and possibly The Visitors too. So much more to these songs than meets the eye for sure. Keep up the great work.
There's so much going on in all of these songs, and I'm sure they don't even consciously realize it. They just work from their heart, and that's reflected in all of these layers and cross-references. Thanks, Ed!
The whole album is a masterpiece but I have to say this one is my favorite, no just because it has my name on it 😜…. It’s a great great song .
Love this song and i love most the Bjorn and Bennys banking vocals. Really cool. 👍
Thank you so much! Listening to your breakdown of the boys' backing track ws so informative and helped make complete sense of the song. Keep An Eye on Dan is one of my favourites on the album. Its the one that is suck in my head so to speak, and the one I'm always singing around the house, when I'm cleaning, driving and shopping🙂
My god, this album is truly a masterpiece. The way that the words sung by Benny and Bjorn blend in with the girls voices is just amazing . I had no idea what the boys were singing until I saw your video.
Thank you again for such a brilliant review,as always. YOU ARE THE BEST!!!
I admire so much ABBA s creativity, talent .It shows in every song. ABBAVOYAGE is a masterpiece , the voices , music ! Benny Bjorn Agnetha Anni Frid 💗💗💗💗👏👏👏👏
When Benny and Bjorn are singing near the end is it Funny how quickly it takes me, or Funny how it really takes me? I've seen one for Funny how quickly it takes me and I can hear both, I cant distinguish which it is!
Hello, Bobby's Brother! You have analyzed very well this song, and the relation with S.O.S. song.
And, the harmony of their voices that I Love when I am listening their songs.
So, I have learned something about ABBA'S legacy with your EXCELLENT video.
Thank you very much.
Greetings and be safe!!😊
I LOVE THE SMALL REFERENCES, TO ABBA'S BACK CATALOGUE. AND TO TWO OF AGNETHA'S AND ANNI-FRID'S SOLO SONGS. WHEN I FIRST HEARD THIS SONG, KEEP AN EYE ON DAN, I COULDN'T HELP, BUT TO THINK OF AGNETHA'S LOVE INTEREST, IN THE VIDEO: THE DAY BEFORE YOU CAME. A BIT FUNNY. AGAIN AGAIN AGAIN, BJØRN'S LYRICS ARE TO DIE FOR. THE GEMINI ALBUMS, AND THE JOSEFIN NILSSON ALBUM ( MAY SHE REST IN PEACE ), SHOULD BE IN EVERYONES RECORD COLLECTION. THEY ARE VERY MUCH UNDERRATED MUSICAL GEMS. AGAIN AGAIN AGAIN, AGNETHA AND ANNI-FRID HARMONIZE, SO THAT THIRD VOICE JUST COMES EXPLODING, THROUGH YOUR LOUDSPEAKERS. BJØRN AND BENNY, MY ABBASOLUTE FAVE COMPOSERS OF ALL TIME 🥰🥰🥰🥰
Fabulosos, fantástico
At 9:52 and 10:09, I hear "I won't forget to park here on Sunday to get him" (i.e. the handovers between ex-partners is in a neutral location, not at the houses of either of the two exes) - although this line would imply the Sunday at Seven is for him to pick up Dan, rather than for him to hand Dan back to her, so that doesn't fit with the rest of the song.
The drums leading to first chorus is like there is that tension and hesitancy of the narrator letting Dan away and the way she describes her feelings towards her ex husband. It is possible that the narrator had still some feelings for Dan's dad as they see often, but she is wasn't sure if it is real or not.
A most excellent observation. Thanks a lot!!
another great video....well done...every song is so special :- )
When I fist listened to this I instantly loved the melody. I feel its the best song on the album. Although I cant relate to the lyrics , I love the music, I wish someone would make an instrumental remix. Your dissection of the song was excellant. Its to bad the mens chorus is mixed so low beneath Frida and Agnetha. As you've shown the structure of the chorus is brilliant. And shows us how unique the ABBA sound is. How talented Benny and Bjorn are when composing a song. They are simpatico in melding music and lyrics. The lyrics are simplistic, but are direct and never abstract. Each song is in its own "universe" a complete story or feeling conveyed. Not many bands or groups can be so clear in their music,past and even more so today. There in a class of their own. Still so talented and prolific in their older years. Which just shows us that talent never leaves a person. Creativity never leaves, it just hibernates for a time. Then a feeling , an idea, a story is created in the mind. A spark is lit and then unfolds and grows and blossoms when 4 people get together again......🎼🎵🎶🎵🎶🎵🎶
Thanks! Whatever you bring up it really adds to the full picture.
Interesting thoughts, great video!!
Thanks, Romsås!
Brilliant analysis as always!
Wonderful, thanks!
Another fascinating delve into one of the very best songs on Voyage.
On the night of the great reveal, this was the song I wanted to most hear a second time - and that’s what I did as soon as the album dropped. (Funny how it was the one that - from the title alone - sounded worryingly flimsy.) There’s something musically intriguing about it - and whilst I hadn’t picked up the references to Chess and Gemini immediately on hearing Dan, now I do. Thank you..
I also commented at the time, when the BV lyrics were revealed, that they somehow feel deliberately ‘lost’ in the background - the female protagonist is full of anxiety, and simply doesn’t hear the man’s words - perhaps they are even just his thoughts as he says to himself “she must have lost some weight” so he’s not even expecting her to hear them. So, as you say, there are two perspectives at play simultaneously in this cleverly constructed song.
I think Benny was right to include the nod to SOS - who could do that if not ABBA? But it also makes me feel like it is a hopeless situation and a traumatic event indeed.
That was such an interesting dissection/analysis, thanks ..ABBA does such a good job of giving meaning and feeling to their music..tak sa mycket 🙏🏻👍🏻🕊
Thank you for another insightful video!! I never noticed how this track could have been linked to the previous track on the album. Plus I like your analysis of the call and responses during the ending part of the song!