By Aaron Cordy
IN 1974, a little band from Sweden won the Eurovision Song Contest with their song Waterloo, and ABBA mania was born. The phenomenon swept the world, capturing the imagination of millions worldwide, including author and musician Joe Matera.
The Making of ABBA: The Story Behind the Band’s 1975 Breakthrough Album is Joe’s new book, which he is bringing to town for his Australian launch at Shepparton Library on Thursday, February 5. And the Euroa Library on Friday, February 6.
“One of the biggest surprises that people probably may not know is the Sex Pistols were massive fans of Abba. How could that be so?” said Joe on one of the most surprising things he learnt while researching the book.
Photo: Supplied
“The production is absolutely fantastic. The voices of those two girls (Agnetha and Anni-Frid), that’s unique. You don’t get many singers who are able to complement each other. You know, those girls are totally different. I mean, one was a soprano, one was a mezzo soprano. There’s a sort of distance range between them, which blended in so well. And then, you got Benny and Bjorn, who are master musicians who put together this great music. It’s timeless.”
The book won’t be available for purchase at the event, but it can be found at all good bookstores.
Meet Joe Matera and discuss all things ABBA at Shepparton Library on Thursday, February 5, at 7pm, or Euroa Library on Friday, February 6, at 6pm.
Please contact Goulburn Valley Libraries on 1300 374 765 or email gvlibraries@gvlibraries.com.au to book a seat. You can also book online via the library website www.gvlibraries.com.au under the events tab.
