Introduction
“Under Attack” is a song by the Swedish pop group ABBA, released as a single in 1982. It is one of the last songs recorded by the band before their hiatus, and it marks a significant moment in ABBA’s discography as they transitioned away from their peak years.
The song was written by ABBA’s primary songwriting team, Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, with lyrics by Ulvaeus. “Under Attack” was part of ABBA’s final studio album, *The Visitors*, which represents a more introspective and mature phase in the band’s career. The album, released in November 1981, was notable for its darker themes and more complex arrangements, reflecting the band members’ personal and professional transitions.
Musically, “Under Attack” features a distinctive synth-driven arrangement, which was a departure from the band’s earlier, more traditional pop sound. The song’s instrumentation includes a prominent use of synthesizers and a driving beat, aligning with the early 1980s trend towards new wave and electronic music. The track’s production also includes layered vocals and a dramatic, urgent tone, which complements its lyrical themes.
Lyrically, “Under Attack” explores themes of vulnerability and the feeling of being overwhelmed, both emotionally and psychologically. The song’s chorus, with its repeated plea of being “under attack,” encapsulates a sense of struggle and resistance, reflecting the band’s own challenges during that period.
Despite its relatively modest chart performance, “Under Attack” remains a significant part of ABBA’s legacy, symbolizing the end of an era for the band. It showcases their ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes while maintaining their signature sound.
In summary, “Under Attack” is a notable track from ABBA’s *The Visitors* album, highlighting their evolution towards a more electronic sound and marking a poignant moment in the band’s history as they approached a temporary hiatus.