“Just a Notion,” originally recorded in 1978 but left unreleased until it appeared on ABBA’s 2021 album Voyage, is a delightful throwback to the band’s golden era. With its infectious melody, upbeat tempo, and unmistakable harmonies, the song captures the fun, nostalgic sound that defined ABBA’s music in the late 1970s. While the track never made it onto their earlier albums, its eventual release decades later was met with excitement from fans eager to hear a piece of “lost” ABBA history. “Just a Notion” is a celebration of the band’s classic style and a reminder of the joy and excitement that their music brings.
From the opening notes, “Just a Notion” feels instantly familiar, with a bouncy piano line and lively rhythm that create a sense of nostalgia and warmth. The production is lively and filled with the energy of classic ABBA, blending rock and roll influences with pop hooks and harmonies that harken back to the band’s early hits. Unlike the synth-heavy sounds that became popular in the late ‘70s and ‘80s, the song sticks to a more traditional arrangement with guitars, drums, and piano, evoking the carefree, upbeat vibe that fans associate with ABBA’s music at its peak.
The vocals are a standout, with Agnetha Fältskog and Anni-Frid Lyngstad delivering their signature harmonies with charm and exuberance. Their voices blend seamlessly, creating a joyful, uplifting sound that carries the song’s lighthearted theme. There’s a warmth and spontaneity to their performance that feels timeless, making the song as vibrant and engaging today as it would have been in the ‘70s. Their harmonies radiate a sense of fun and playfulness, capturing the excitement of a fresh, new romance that has all the potential in the world.
Lyrically, “Just a Notion” is about the thrill and anticipation of meeting someone new, with lyrics like “Just a notion, that you’ll be walking up to me in a while / And you smile and say hello and we’ll be dancing through the night.” It’s a song filled with optimism and excitement, expressing the hope and curiosity that come with the beginning of a relationship. The lyrics are simple yet effective, capturing the universal feeling of wondering where a connection might lead. There’s no angst or heartache here—just pure, unadulterated joy at the prospect of something wonderful unfolding.
The story behind “Just a Notion” adds to its charm. Originally recorded during the Voulez-Vous sessions, the song was shelved, only to be revisited decades later for Voyage. Hearing the classic vocals and arrangements from the original recording blended with modern production touches gives the track a unique, multi-generational appeal, blending ABBA’s past with their present. For longtime fans, it’s a chance to experience “new” classic ABBA, and for new listeners, it’s an opportunity to hear the band at their most joyful and carefree.
Though it may not have the lyrical complexity or emotional depth of some of ABBA’s later songs, “Just a Notion” serves as a reminder of what made the band so beloved: their ability to create music that lifts spirits and makes listeners want to dance. It’s a fun, optimistic song that doesn’t try to be anything other than joyful, capturing the essence of ABBA’s sound and the era in which they rose to fame.
In the end, “Just a Notion” is a playful and uplifting tune that celebrates the simplicity and happiness of love’s early stages. With its bright melody, lively beat, and timeless harmonies, it’s a song that invites listeners to let go of worries and enjoy the ride. The release of this “lost” track on Voyage is a gift to fans and a joyful reminder that ABBA’s music, whether old or new, has a unique ability to bring happiness and warmth to listeners worldwide.
