Shnootz - Reaction Video (ABBA - Don't Shut Me Down)

[@mattsnider2667]

So this was the only video in the entire session in which Lucca jumped up on her chair. She must be fond of the ABBA folks! 😸😽

[@richschmidt307]

😻This was the song she was waiting for too.

[@SharpeNeal]

I'm surprised she didn't react to 'Tiger' with you! 🐯

[@sofiamar18]

Hmmm... that's only because you didn't do any a-ha today! 😁😇

[@mattsnider2667]

@@sofiamar18 Haha, you're right. She always comes around when she hears Morten sing. :)

[@sofiamar18]

@@mattsnider2667 haaaa, don't lie to me, Matt! 😆🤣 I haven't commented about it, but I have missed her lately. 😼 It was a nice surprise to see her here. 😉

[@malvanlondon8683]

Just as good as their older stuff. Pure magic!

[@addersdewinter7495]

This is Abba to the power of 10. Absolute Abba. A gem of a song that brings back the warmth and poppyness of Abba 40 years previous.

[@christopheralbon5224]

It amazes me that two ladies in their 70's can sing with that power, and the instrumental arrangement is quite stunning.

[@darrenbertram7289]

A song so good it automatically repeats itself 😂

[@deanodeano8604]

What other artists return 4 decades later with a song that sounds like they never left, evokes so much emotion (probably cause those of us from the first time around are now middle aged & understand all that life is about) it's a fantastic song. Vocals are on point. Awesome, stand out Voyage song ❤

[@adamlewis3729]

IMO this is a 10/10 perfect pop song with sweet synth bass. I LOVE THIS.

[@walterw9829]

This song gets better and better each time I hear it.

[@plerpplerp5599]

The strings are simply out of this world. It makes me smile and cry at the same time. ❤

[@jerrycote659]

My favorite from the “Voyage” album. Bjorn was brilliant with the lyrics on this one, I love the lines “I’m not the one you knew, I’m now and then combined, and I’m asking you to have an open mind”. I feel like it could be a lyric to us, the ABBA fandom, and asking us to be open to a mature ABBA, but, combined with the ABBA we know and love. And the line “I’m asking you to have an open mind” to me is letting down their guard and exposing a vulnerability in recognizing the new material might not be fully accepted upon release. It’s a beautiful and surprisingly emotional plea which along with “I Still Have Faith In You” are two of ABBA’s most moving songs. They both elicit strong emotional reactions from those of us who have love ABBA. And I have to also mention the brilliance of Benny on this song in particular. His instrumentation managed to strike every raw nerve in me through his use of the particular things which I have always loved in ABBA, the strings, the keyboards (especially the parts descending from high to low, reminiscent of “Dancing Queen”), how he brought in the Glockenspiel throughout the track, it was like bells harking back to many of the early ABBA classics. He knew exactly how to pull in all the classic ABBA characteristics, yet, also how to make the song sound up to date, or dare I say “now and then combined” as the lyrics so perfectly state. Genius!

[@eduardooscar309]

As expected, in the first 12 hours "Don't shut me down" exceeded 1000 views and almost 100 comments And last night it just surpassed 2000 views before the week was over, #20 in the Top20 of your ABBA playlist And combined with “I still have faith in You”, which surpassed 2500 views and is already #7 in the Top10 of your ABBA playlist It is showing how well the latest ABBA songs entered your channel I particularly feel very fascinated and excited to read the comments from all the fans, sharing many of our emotions since the world premiere of "Don't shut me down". but also highlighting the technical quality of this true masterpiece of these '4 grandparents' (affectionately said) in the new century, teaching new artists and the whole world that at their advanced age they 'still have it' (the talent) I bring a comparison, that I read or saw on another channel (I think that on Bobby's Brother) both ABBA comeback songs bring up a question "I still have faith in you" solves it and categorically ('we do have it in us') "Don't shut me down" leaves it open, repeating a phrase from the opening verse to close ("and love and hope is what I am here now") waiting for the response from the fans, which was overwhelmingly positive Now a comment about my experience with "Don't shut me down" In that live broadcast on livestream I was moved to hear Agnetha's solo voice again, but the song itself took a while to grow on me, I liked it and it was my favorite of the two released, but I needed a few weeks with successive listening and watching videos of various reactors, until I realized that it was an extraordinary masterpiece, I fell captivated by such majesty and today I have no doubt that it is 10/10 and in my Top 5 of all ABBA songs, along with Waterloo ; S.O.S, ; Dancing Queen ; The winner takes it all It is a true symphony and synthesis of all the magic of ABBA with the glissados of "Dancing Queen", the string section of "If it wasn't for the nights", the bells that ring similar to the marimba of "Mamma Mia", the beginning and end similar to "Thank you for the music", the continuation of the story and rhythm of "One of us"... and the angel and captivating fantasy of "Waterloo" As a bonus, here is a link to that memorable live broadcast, with the announcement of "Don't shut me down" kzbin.info/www/bejne/mIDbonp8fNWnra8 One last comment, but this is referring to the following song "Just a notion" It is a track that was discarded in the 1978/1979 recording sessions for the album "Voulez Vous" But for this album "Voyage" was remixed, respecting the original voices of that time. And they added more musical production (and I think there are choirs of the new millennium) The idea of incorporating it was in relation to the new Voyage Concerts To show how his ABBAtars could interpret them with the voices of that time today It is the combination of the old ABBA and the new ABBA see you soon in these reaction my best regards from Buenos Aires, Argentina South America

[@MarioDruet]

Now you can put an Abba image on the wall behind you!

[@tonyd3345]

😂 I thought of the same thing.

[@theresenydahl9531]

This one gives me goosebumps and make old ABBA fans cry❤ Thank you 🌞

[@eduardooscar309]

Finally, the most icónic moment Your 100th ABBA song! The big global news of this 21st century for the music world is the return of the legendary Swedish pop quartet ABBA to the recording studios after more than 35 years (the last was "The day before you came" in 1982) and the edition of new songs after 39 years (the last was "Under attack" in 1982 too) and a new album after almost 40 years (the last was "The Visitors" in 1981) Beyond that these three data are for the Guines Book of records (I believe that No Group or Singer or Artist can come close to these incredible brands), the most remarkable thing is How they returned, with what level of quality And I must say that ABBA overcame all fears, doubts and expectations Their return is shocking and his quality is still valid "Don't shut me down" (2021) it's another surprise from ABBA A pop song was expected, but there were reservations and fears for what it could be (and here I include doubts to the voices of the girls due to their age) And we find a magnificent work The beginning is with Agnetha's voice attacking with the pleasant company of the piano. What Agnetha does in that introduction is anthology, exquisite modulating and using different nuances with her mature voice. Until Benny's signature piano glint (nod to the mega hit "Dancing Queen") and ABBA's typical pop song is with us, with the fans, because the lyrics speak to us. and Agnetha assumes that decoding of almost four decades and gives us her beautiful voice as the strings grow and lead to a memorable chorus with Frida reliving the historic third voice of ABBA But it doesn't end there, the second part adds hooks and a xylophone is added to the bells (a nod to the marimba in "Mamma Mía"), and the pre-chorus has more force with Agnetha and Frida and the violins anticipate the elevation to a chorus triumphant final anthology reminiscent of his greatest hits And it ends, like the begining, with a soft and sweet Agnetha voice and piano melody (nod to "Thank you for the music") Don't shut me down gives ABBA Their 20th Top10 in UK (#9) and #1 in #1 at Sweden since 1978 now we have the new album "Voyage" since last November 2021, with four nominations to Grammys awards 2023 (two for album and two for these song) and one more before in 2021 for I still have faith in you and the new ABBA Concert in the new ABBA Arena at London (with ABBAtars of Themselfes) Thank for your great reaction and for Your respect to ABBA music see in next ABBA vídeo GOD bless You my best regards from Buenos Aires Argentina 🇦🇷 South América

[@discogareth]

This stands up there with the very best of all ABBA songs. I still get emotional every time I hear it.

[@alainbrunetti9012]

What a wonderfull song ❤in my top 3 with the winner takes it all and the day before you came 😊

[@frankly-he1kf]

As a lifelong abba fan I consider this to be up there with dancing queen.....unbelievable....Ireland 🇮🇪

[@alexioverdo5225]

Agree!To ma ears sounds like a juice of DQ and ST.

[@terrykemp1876]

Nothing like the ABBA 'reunion' will hit me again with such emotion and sheer joy in my life time I don't think. As a fan of nearly 50 years, I am thankful I got to experience that emotion when it came in 2021.

[@rdwulf6289]

A highlight of the album, with a lovely lead by Agnetha. To my ear Frida is the slightly dominant voice on the chorus. Those two voices together is as good as it gets. Thank God (or whoever) for Abba and this album.

[@supastah68]

They still got it in their mid-70’s. My favorite song on the album.

[@Whyskerz]

When Benny and Bjorn informed a salivating public that their forthcoming Voyage album was going to be "trend-blind" they weren't kidding... 😊 If you were to take the entirety of ABBA's recording output and distill it into one single song, THIS would be that song: 3 minutes and 56 seconds of crazy/mad sonic perfection

[@christianoazzuro6711]

For many of us older fans that grew up with their music it's difficult to be non -attached to this band and it's obvious we are emotionally connected and affected so deep.'They were our fairytale' as another fan said. These 4some were an escape from reality and a big hug of consolation even if a whole world had turned you down.Abba were there to give comfort (as Frida had also wished and said).Their legacy is a sacred bond.A big special part of ours.

[@christianoazzuro6711]

@marvinpoprockfan I feel you Marvin,same here.Have you seen the KOF performance of Swizerland tv special.?i have watched inumerous times Agnetha's 40 secs in the intro.I freeze her facial expression in between 18th-19th second.That look of kindness and compassion make me melt and sooth in comfort.

[@tonyd3345]

When they unveiled this song at the announcement, I literally cried like a baby when the chorus kicked in! Who does this!!!? No one, as Bjorn said. Chill for 40 years! Then come back and slap the world across the face to wake them up. THIS is music. This is a masterpiece. You're going to really like the upcoming songs. Fun to share your discovery with you. Thanks for the reaction.

[@francismedina4547]

Yes, I was in tears also because this track is closer to the old familiar ABBA sound, unlike I Still Have Faith..

[@stuartwho]

In tears too on first hearing. Of the first two songs released from Voyage this is my favourite

[@pascal-Z]

This must have been my most listened to song of 2021 AND 2022. 😄

[@jimw859]

When this and 'I Still Have Faith In You' dropped in the middle of the pandemic in 2021 it was truly a special moment. I'm honest enough to say it brought a few tears to my eyes as I listened to their first new music in almost 40 years having grown up when they were at the height of their sucess. Agnetha and Frida's voices have changed subtly over the years but are instantly recognisable and as beautifully balanced as ever. The hallmark harmonies, melodies and orchestrations that Benny and Bjorn were famous for are still there and almost perfect in every way. The attention to detail is just exceptional. Both songs feel like they could have come from any one of the original albums because they have a timeless quality to them which I love. And while there's a top-line narrative in this song of a woman connecting with a former partner the deeper meaning in this track of the group reconnecting with their fans is truly what makes this song special.

[@nickchristoforou7850]

The introduction of the digital 'Abbatars' for the 'Voyage' concerts is a third layer. That and the plea to the fans is what I like most about the lyrics. It's also cool that they didn't "correct" the imperfections (ever so slight) in the vocals - which are still great. If the lyrics were more straighforward, without the fake lover-coming-back story, I would've connected with it sooner. It took me awhile, also because of the slow and theatrical intro. The first chorus is what ultimately won me over. Hearing that beautiful melody with Lyngstad 's and Faltskog's combined vocals melted my heart.

[@eduardooscar309]

the end cost me, more abrupt I wanted it to continue in that tone of the triumphal chorus Instead, that intro is majestic. Agnetha in her vocal maturity makes a fantastic anthology with all the nuances of her voice, to prepare us for the unexpected with successive listens, relate to "Thank you for the music" and I said to myself "it is the Masterpiece of the New Millennium"

[@alexioverdo5225]

It's got a dual meaning.A woman's second coming to her lovemate she could'nt resist and a love letter to us loyal fans testing the waters asking us to accept them back the way they are.And of course we did.Doors and hearts Wide open!

[@ingvarjensen1088]

Amen. Exactly ❤️

[@sofiamar18]

I promised Eduardo I would come and listen to this song, so here I am. Let me point out right away that I am not an ABBA fan, so I don't hear their songs as the ABBA people. To be honest, I remained mostly indifferent the first time I heard it, though I liked to hear the girls' voices, as always. It was fun to watch Matt getting excited with every little sound while it didn't do much to me. 😅 Then I gave it a second listen and I enjoyed it much more. 😉 It has a strong, catchy chorus and I was already dancing in my sofa. Bottom line, I understand why ABBA fans would love it, it's a good song with nice details here and there, and their vocals still sound gorgeous. 👍

[@christianoazzuro6711]

lol!😊At least you gave it a chance Thanx for kinda reconsidering..Nice to read this.

[@eduardooscar309]

It makes me very happy to see you here and read your sincere comment I also had to listen to it several times The first time live in the transmission the emotion surpassed me Then with the successive listens the song grew in me Until I finally fell in love with such majesty at theirs 70 years old, I gave it an absolute 10/10 and it's already in my ABBA historical Top5

[@todddepue681]

This really felt like a love letter to the fans, but so cleverly written as to portray the rekindling of a one on one love affair. "I'm now and then combined" is such a good line!

[@marcodebrabander5751]

The best song on the album! Everything is great!

[@richardtaylor1905]

Fun fact for any fellow ABBA geeks - as you know, the song that precedes this one on the Voyage album is Little Things, whose final note is the same as the opening note of Don't Shut Me Down. This song is an instant ABBA classic, and gave them their first UK top ten single since One of Us, FORTY YEARS before. Amazing!

[@sharifuddinsalleh7119]

They still sound great though, and that's all that matters ❤ The fact that some fans can't stop comparing the differences of their old and current voices, is a great shame and, to be honest, unfair. On the other hand, we should just accept them as their 'old and new me', their 'now and then combined ', that's when we could 100% appreciate them as they are today, and they are STILL AWESOMELY ABBA❤ Personally, I would argue that, give and take, they sound even better now overall ❤ Pure love and respect to you ABBA❤

[@DD-58]

A 'personal letter' to a past love/partner AND an 'open letter' to ABBA fans. ABBAsolute perfection😊 Nothing but the best from the best❤ And of course I burst into tears...happy tears😊

[@gustavoguh4102]

My fave song from Voyage, also my #3 ABBA song overall. The storytelling in this song facinates me, which in a second perspective Björn said is about themselves, something like: "hey we're back after 40 years and we're not the same after so long, we're asking you to have an open mind. But we're fired up, don't shut us down" 💚 amazing, isn't it? as you said, DSMD seems to have come straight out of the 70's - born as an absolute ABBA classic.

[@samroozen6719]

What is your number one and two ????

[@gustavoguh4102]

@@samroozen6719 me and i and angeleyes

[@phillambrose3496]

An excellent production, musically and vocally...........first rate.

[@stevehulse4005]

This is instantly recognisable as an ABBA song, not just because of all the Dancing Queen, If it Wasn’t for the Nights etc. touches but for the slow beginning and then bang into uptempo, the story telling and those instantly recognisable harmonies and the key change oh and not forgetting Agnetha’s vocal plea. Perfection

[@alejandrosantanaborquez917]

It's a great song!😊 From ABBA👑 for/to the ABBA fans❤... after almost 40 years... Really amazing! Good to see you again, Matt. It's wonderful to see Lucca❤ also... Take care... until next time ❤🇨🇱👍

[@michik694]

This is my favourite song from Voyage. Agnetha´s voice seems like it barely changed at all 🥰

[@mattsnider2667]

I was basically thinking that during the song. Like because I knew it's older ABBA, I think I forced my brain to hear that, but seriously, she sounds as beautiful and dynamic as ever.

[@SebaZero]

They used autotune and other technological tricks this time.

[@michik694]

@@SebaZero Maybe they did that but Agnetha in my opinion still has 'that' voice. In 2013 she did a live performance with Gary Barlow and I was surprised how good she still sounded. Fridas voice aged much more - but still sounds great.

[@matsholmgren8105]

There is no autotune.

[@rdwulf6289]

​@@SebaZeroNot true.

[@peterbreughel4440]

A great song, as others have said, and as good as anything Abba recorded in the 70s/80s. The line 'I have learned to cope and love and hope' is particularly moving. It makes me think of the challenges Agnetha and Frida faced in their personal lives in the period between 'The Visitors' and 'Voyage' and how they endured and overcame them.

[@scottarooni]

For me, this is my favorite song on "Voyage." The instrumentation here is sublime, with an incredible bass line and flourishes of "Dancing Queen." The lyrics can refer to an old flame, or to the fans who waited 40 years for new music from ABBA. Bjorn's writing is very clever here. I'm also looking forward to the upcoming "Keep an Eye on Dan." That song is so dramatic. Love it!!

[@user-ir5qz8yz4h]

Reminded me thematically of Dylan's "Not Dark Yet" weaving between the personal and existential with the added meta layer of pleading resolution between artist and listener.

[@ABBALAURAFAN]

I waited 40 years for this.. and I was not disappointed.. it’s my favorite A8BA song and that’s saying something as I love them all.

[@marksharmanmusic1]

Back with a masterpiece 40 years on. Older but still making amazing Abba music likens one else can. Glad you liked it and could tell it was Abba. Very cleverly written from a number of perspectives lyrically. That's Bjorn's genius to go with Benny's melodic genius. Those key changes were just amazing and big can the girls still sing. They have two song they never finished for the Voyage album , so Abba fans are hoping we'll hear these as the Voyage concert goes global . Thank you for the review and the thoughts

[@christianoazzuro6711]

Words,music and all those Abba dazzling vocals here,alive and kicking.Chills!Even after nearly 2 years since released i feel my heartbeat fast and loud listening to this 'music loveletter.'

[@nickchristoforou7850]

This song points to the band's return as 'ABBAtars', the digital version of themselves in their youth that have attracted more than 1 million people so far to their spectacular new 'Voyage' concerts in London. They're 'fired up', don't shut them down. They're now and then combined and they're asking us to have an open mind.

[@eduardooscar309]

Your comment is so accurate that I think it is the song that Agnetha's ABBAtar uses to interact with the audience at Voyage Concerts

[@flemmingkristoffersen1896]

This is one of my all time favourite ABBA songs! Great storytelling, fantastic composition and production and wonderfully sung by Agnetha and with Frida in the chorus - just amazing! And perhaps my enthusiasm is caused by my surprise of how well ABBA sound nearly 40 years after we thought it was the end!? They sound so fresh and vital on this song - and yes, you can hear they have become older and their voices have matured. But still they sound as classic ABBA! Don´t Shut Me Down was a hit single in many countries - and the first ABBA single in Sweden to top the charts since Summer Night City in 1978!!!!

[@christianoazzuro6711]

If i wasn't told i would have thought it's from the 'Super Trouper' album era.recorded in 1980 and not almost 4 decades later.

[@robertdinmore1971]

This is also one of my all time favourite ABBA song, not a day goes by where I don’t listed to this song.

[@mathijs2cv]

I really enjoy the way you review all songs. It’s fun to watch, no pausing every 10 seconds. Keep it up!! Love the lyric ‘I’m like a dream within a dream that’s been decoded’. This song to me felt like familiar to listen to, as you said. It also could have been a song from the original run following up on the Visitors.

[@fernandocolman2]

Gracias por reaccionar a mi tema favorito del album.

[@alexioverdo5225]

while ago, I heard the sound of children's laughter Now it's quiet, so I guess they left the park This wooden bench is getting harder by the hour The sun is going down, it's getting dark I realise I'm cold, the rain begins to pour As I watch the windows on the second floor The lights are on, it's time to go (ooh) It's time at last, to let him know I believe it would be fair to say, "You look bewildered" And you wonder why I'm here today And so you should, I would When I left, I felt I've had enough But in the shape and form, I appear now I have learned to cope, and love and hope is why I am here now And now you see another me, I've been reloaded, yeah I'm fired up, don't shut me down I'm like a dream within a dream that's been decoded I'm fired up, I'm hot, don't shut me down I'm not the one you knew, I'm now, and then combined And I'm asking you to have an open mind (and I won't be the same) I'm not the same this time around (ooh) I'm fired up, don't shut me down Will you leave me standing in the hall or let me enter? The apartment hasn't changed at all I've got to say, "I'm glad" Once these rooms were witness to our love My tantrums and increasing frustration But I go from mad, to not so bad In my transformation And now you see another me, I've been reloaded, yeah I'm fired up, don't shut me down (don't shut me down) I'm like a dream, within a dream, that's been decoded I'm fired up, I'm hot, don't shut me down I am not the one you knew (I'm not the one you knew) I'm now, and then combined And I'm asking you to have an open mind (now, I'll not be the same) I'm not the same this time around (ooh) I'm fired up, don't shut me down You ask me not to leave Well, here I am again And I love you still and so I won't pretend I have learnt to cope, and love and hope is why I am here now/ OK i just cried.........

[@SimplyTim_UK]

This should be on ABBA Gold!

[@MarkSatchwillArt]

Love, Love, Love this track. I was thrilled when i first heard it and played it to death when it came out. Superficially it's the story of a woman returning to visit an old flame and wondering if their relationship can be re-kindled. What I really think it's about is Abba coming back in their digital Abbatar from in the Voyage show and wondering if people will accept it. "A while ago I heard the sound of children's laughter, now it's quiet so I guess they left the park" - back then Abba all had children, and Agnetha especially found being apart from her children a major area of tension. But the children are now all grown, it's no longer a concern. "The Sun is going down it's getting dark" - they are now getting old, the years are passing, is this their last chance to try something new? "The light's are on , it's time to go" - the stage is lit, the project is started, it's time to start the show "you look bewildered, and so you should I would" - this is addressing the fans - who believed they would ever return as Abba to the stage? "when I left I felt I'd had enough, but in the shape and form I appear now" - they had had enough of it all back in 1982, but now they have found a way to present Abba that removes the need for them to actually have to go through the stuff that Agnetha particularly finds intrusive and appear on stage themselves. "now you see another me, I've been reloaded, I'm fired up don't shut me down" "I'm not the one you knew, I'm now and then combined, and I'm asking you to have an open mind" - this is their return as the digital Abbatars, created by fusing their real performance with digital recreations of them from the past, reloaded every night for a new performance - will the fans be wiling to experience them in these new forms? Once again it fuses their past with their present, in the lyrical concerns which seem to be have written with Agnetha in mind, about the difficulties of the past and their break up, but also musically, in the piano riffs echoing Dancing Queen. It's sound classically Abba but fresh and new. My favourite track on the album.

[@rayfaircloth8253]

I think she went to see Bjorn. If you listen to the lyrics, it makes sense. The apartment rooms were witness to their love and her tantrums and frustration. She says she goes from mad to not so bad in her transformation. and... you asked me not to leave, so here I am again... I love you still.

[@richschmidt307]

This song and I Still Have Faith In You were released during a live-stream event back in Sept of '21. Benny and Bjorn revealed during the live-stream that ABBA was releasing a new album. Sensory overload kicked in. Listened to this song again after the shock wore off. Have to admit, I ugly-cried hearing those glorious voices together in the chorus.

[@alexioverdo5225]

What you admit is what some mass of us did all around the globe.🤩😍🤗

[@tuijakarttunen9164]

Me too! Cried like a baby listening to their voices. Like meeting an old friend after a long time. Absolutely beautiful.

[@terrykemp1876]

You were not the only one, Haha!!

[@christianoazzuro6711]

Both ladies got aware of the emotional impact they caused to people that many even got captured live on camera bursting into tears.Frida was asked about how did she feel about fans crying while listening to the 2 new songs.And she kinda anwered that she understood why,'i cried too". she said.

[@marcoengelbracht4141]

Effortlesly they caught up where they ended 40 years ago. Made me cry when I first heard them again, not a single voice, but all of them combined. All of us Fan's have been wsiting for this. Thanks for the reaction, sub left.

[@tuijakarttunen9164]

It`s pure Abba. I love those strings and the harmonies, that nod to Dancing Queen with that piano thing, The lyrics are just perfect and as Björn said; "it had to be about us". The whole concept to their come back album is perfection including the timing right after the pandemic. Thank you for the music! And thank you for the reaction.

[@eduardooscar309]

Björn said these about "I still have faith in you"

[@francismedina4547]

Great story telling by Agnetha. Wait till you hear I Can Be That Woman. This song is about a woman trying to get back with her former lover. Or ABBA telling their fans that they're back, don't shut us down. I'm not the one you knew, I'm now and then combined. That ascending piano is like a tribute to Dancing Queen.

[@tuijakarttunen9164]

And, of course, referring to those Abbatars. Don`t shut us down.

[@paulecrosby2006]

It's an instant classic.

[@davidwilding7405]

The ladies have lost a lot of their power, but the tonal quality is as good as it was 40 years ago. And indeed Agnetha probably has even more ability to inject feeling and emotion. I think this is the most "ABBA" song on the album, and one of my favourites across their entire catalogue . And I absolutely love the photo's and video's from the recording sessions that have been released, they all look happy and comfortable with each other.

[@abbagus1]

This song is an encoded message to fans ( “you asked me not to leave well here I am again” ) but at the same time it is a simply love song and it has also part of the story of their breakup and reunion . It talks about the ABBAtar show , “they’re them but they’re no exactly the same , a dream decoded” they ask the fans to give them a chance “ I go from mad to not so bad in my transformation “ they’re transformed into ABBAtars ( “I’m now and then combined “) but that lyrics apply also to this record cos they know they’re not so bad “this time around “ they cannot reach so higher notes like they used to but “they’re fired up don’t shut me down “, we can appreciate here the intentional glissando of Dancing Queen , amazing they can still sing and without auto tune . The reference of the kids at the beginning is also because the previous song ( Little things ended with kids ) and there is an intentional 1 second short cut between track and track.

[@abbagus1]

@marvinpoprockfan indeed we were all kids … I’ve watched ABBA the movie from 4 pm to 12 pm screenings back then , by that time I watched like 100 times the movie , having the dvd and blu ray, I lost the count

[@flemmingkristoffersen1896]

The next song is quite special! JUST A NOTION is originally from 1978 and was supposed to be included on the Voulez-Vous album. But for some reason it wasn't - maybe because it didnt fit in with the disco sound of that album? In 1994 a snippet of the demo was released on Thank You For The Music 4xCD compilation. Disc 4 had a number of unreleased material - and JAN was one of the most finished sounding. This version has the original vocals but with new and fresher instrumentation.And it shows how well the new and old ABBA joins on Voyage! A real feel good song with a bouncy rhythm! Enjoy! 👍

[@jamesleogue3938]

Hi Matt 😀... " I'm like a dream within a dream thats been decoded" OMG I wish I could write lyrics like Bjorn, hope you enjoy the rest of this brilliant Album. 🇬🇧😀

[@eduardooscar309]

I take advantage of and renew the ABBA statistics on your channel, while "Don't shut me down" is growing in views and comments celebrating being the 100th song of your immersion into the ABBA world You have already exceeded 150,000 accumulated views, which leaves us a great average of 1500 views per song ABBA's Top20 with all the songs that have exceeded 2000 views is: Ring Ring The winner takes it all Lay all your love on me As good as new S.O.S. Knowing me knowing you Eagle Chiquitita Gimme gimme gimme (a man after midnight) The day before you came I still have faith in you The Visitors (crackin'up) Angeleyes Thank you for the music Andante andante The name of the game Move on Kisses of fire Super trouper When I kissed the teacher ABBA has already achieved the complete Top10 of all your musical reactions And within the Top20 of all your videos, 8 are from ABBA, thus located: #5 RingRing #9 The winner takes it all #10 Lay all your love on me #11 As good as new #13 S.O.S. #15 Knowing me knowing you #18 Eagle #20 Chiquitita As for the statistics of the albums by accumulated, it is: Super Trouper Voulez vous The Album The Visitors Arrival ABBA Ring Ring singles and bonus tracks Waterloo No-Album 1982 (5 songs) Voyage (with 3 songs) While for averages, the order changes to: Super Trouper The Album Voulez vous The Visitors Voyage (with 3 songs) Arrival No-Album 1982 (5 songs) singles and bonus tracks ABBA Ring Ring Waterloo “Super Trouper” Is The Album With The Best Stats It is the only one that exceeds 20,000 accumulated views, and 2,000 on average It is the only one that has all the songs exceeding 1,500 views And it has two songs in the Top3 of the entire ABBA playlist (which if we exclude Ring Ring from the analysis, would be the 2 most required here

[@malvanlondon8683]

To me , the song has a double meaning. On the surface, it's a former lover going back to her ex-partner's apartment to see if their relationship can be re-kindled. On a secondary level, it's ABBA saying to the listening public: "We're back, but we're not really sure what reception we'll get. We're not quite the same as the old ABBA; please give us a chance. Don't shut us down." Very well constructed song.

[@francismedina4547]

Matt, speaking of Agnetha, you should react to her latest album A released in 2013. Don't Shut Me Down was recorded in 2017.

[@achristoffersen6850]

Yes, her vocals on the A album are outstanding - as always 🥰

[@MichaelNadin-b8k]

I think this is an amazing song, and has become my favorite of ABBA. I was looking forward to their new songs so much and must admit i was nervous as i wondered if they would be able to pull it off taking into account 40 years gap and their ages, but wow never expected this and hey a new favorite came from it, that i really didn't expect. Such an amazing talented group

[@staalmannen2522]

Definately Voyage's best song. Could have been from their prime time. The verse nr 2 when Agnetha sings ....or let me enter....is so beautiful!! I think the lyrics is about ABBA finally are together again

[@alexioverdo5225]

lol i love the way she sang/pronounced the 'let me enter' bit...

[@robertdinmore1971]

This is my favourite song off the album if not of all time from ABBA. I cried the first time I heard the chorus and the famous “3rd Voice” of ABBA, as I had been dreaming of that day for many many years, it still gets me now and again. I just hope 1 day we get the 2 rejected songs from the album and of course Just Like That from their original time together. But this album is amazing and a great way to close the ABBA story, always felt that the Visitors was not the proper way to go out even though I love it it just was a very sad ending , well till now 😊

[@cristianwaraltte3351]

Yes! Listen to it once again! jajajaj Love this song!

[@moppy285]

when i heard this for the first time (i was in Greece as i remember ) i just cried ! with tears of Joy ! - as a life time fan of ABBA (and I’m 57 years old) i thought i would never hear them sing together as a group ! - just fantastic !! they still have it !!!

[@HenriqueAlbuquerque295]

One of the strongest songs of this album.

[@frankly-he1kf]

Ever...😊

[@francismedina4547]

This is the new ABBA voices. This and I Still Have Faith In You were recorded first. The rest of the album tracks were recorded up until 2021.

[@francismedina4547]

​@marvinpoprockfanYes, but near the end new vocals were added

[@discogareth]

A fun fact for you. This is the only song on the album that we know the working demo title of. It was titled ‘Tina Charles’. Benny wanted to write a song that had the same vibe as ‘I Love To Love’ that he was very fond of.

[@mortenmagnus9382]

for me the title and chorus is referring to their avatar selves....the verses though I read like the total opposite: Memories of love, places And Situations.

[@ayman-asmr]

A masterpiece, but my favourite one doesn't come yet.

[@Payne2view]

The string section has echos of snipits from "If it wasn't for the nights". Due the ABBAtar avitar concept of rejuvinated versions of them on the stage show, I thought of this as a re-animated person almost haunting someone, saying 'don't shut my programme down'. Since people used to say they'd "fire up" a desk top computer and "I've been re-loaded". "I'm fired up, I'm hot, don't shut me down". Of course people can be "fired up" and "hot" emotionally too.

[@RalphWigg1]

This track, like ' I Still Have Faith In You', is Abba in their new digital 'Abatar' version, asking their fans to accept them in their new form. In other words, the lyrics are a mataphor!

[@toddlandry5736]

My favorite from this album and one of my favorites of theirs overall. I listened to this on repeat two years ago when it was first released. Certainly the double meaning of the song is clever. Now speaking of their vintage run... Next,...

[@ekerowillow1610]

Yay, Lucca is back. I used to think you'd had her stuffed because when you picked her up she'd always be inanimate and shaped like a boomerang (she's just a sleepy cat lol)

[@The_Jupiter2_Mission]

Don't Shut Me Down has one of their catchiest choruses. It doesn't make it top tier Abba for me as I feel melodically the verses are a bit on the weaker side. Some of Bjorn's lyrics are a bit clunky in the verses too. What made their voices so powerful was Frida, being a Mezzo Soprano, would always strive to sing up there in the stratosphere with Anna's natural Soprano. It helped give Abba that steely, metal oomph to the vocal. Age has naturally taken that away from Frida's voice and I can hear now in these tracks that aspect is missing. That's to be expected, of course. I can also hear the backing mixes are more top heavy to naturally disguise whatever discrepancies that may exist in their voices. The younger Abba always had the voices very much to the fore in the mix, whereas they quite sensibly have changed the mixing to suit their older voices. It's a delicate balance to get the balance right and not bury the vocal too much.

[@rdwulf6289]

​@marvinpoprockfanCan't argue with that.

[@sharifuddinsalleh7119]

They still sound great though, and that's all that matters ❤ I think if we stop comparing the differences of their old and current voices, and just accept them as their 'old and new me', that's when we could 100% appreciate them as they are today, and they are STILL AWESOMELY ABBA❤ If we wish to be so critical of their differences in current and young voices, I would argue that, give and take, they sound even better now overall ❤ Pure love and respect to you ABBA❤

[@supastah68]

by the way; Don’t shut me down was nominated for the record of the year Grammy. ABBA lost to Lizzo.

[@achristoffersen6850]

Matt, would you please consider playing the 23:30 minute long “Undeleted - Medley” at some point? It gives a unique insight on how ABBA used to work on different versions of their songs in the studio.

[@pascal-Z]

Oh yes! Thats a good idea. Matt would love that.

[@discogareth]

And the other demo medley, ‘From a twinkling star to a passing angel’