Introduction
ABBA’s “I Saw It in the Mirror”: A Look Back
ABBA’s “I Saw It in the Mirror” arrived in 1973, nestled amongst the tracks on their debut album, “Ring Ring.” While the song holds a place in ABBA’s history, critical reception hasn’t been overly enthusiastic. Some reviewers consider it a “filler track,” lacking the group’s signature energetic pop sound ([Wikipedia: I Saw It in the Mirror]).
However, the song does offer a glimpse into a different direction for ABBA. “I Saw It in the Mirror” dabbles in a laid-back R&B style, a departure from the group’s usual pop sensibilities. This experimentation with a new genre highlights the versatility of Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, the songwriting duo behind ABBA’s biggest hits.
Despite the lukewarm critical response, “I Saw It in the Mirror” offers a chance to hear Agnetha Fältskog and Frida Lyngstad, the band’s vocalists, in a new light. The song features their voices with a distinct “echo” effect, creating a unique soundscape ([Wikipedia: I Saw It in the Mirror]).
So, while “I Saw It in the Mirror” might not be an ABBA anthem on par with “Dancing Queen” or “Waterloo,” it serves as a reminder of the group’s willingness to explore different sounds early in their career. It’s a track for fans who want to delve deeper into ABBA’s discography and discover a lesser-known facet of their musical identity.