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Aha Scoundrel Days Remastered And Expanded Upd

The Scoundrel Days Remastered and Expanded edition, released in 2010 by Rhino Records, serves as a definitive tribute to a-ha's "difficult second album". Originally released on October 6, 1986, Scoundrel Days was the follow-up to their massive debut, Hunting High and Low, and saw the Norwegian trio—Morten Harket, Pål Waaktaar-Savoy, and Magne Furuholmen—pivot from "bubblegummy" synth-pop toward a darker, more atmospheric, and guitar-driven sound. The Core Album: A Darker Evolution

While their debut "shot for the stars" with hits like "Take On Me," Scoundrel Days remained more grounded, leaning into a "chilled gothic flavor" reminiscent of bands like The Cure. The original 10-track album is anchored by high-energy singles and moody deep cuts:

"I've Been Losing You": The lead single, which reached #1 in Norway and #8 in the UK, featured a harder rock edge than previous efforts.

"Manhattan Skyline": A unique "cut-and-paste" project co-written by Furuholmen (the quiet parts) and Waaktaar (the rock parts).

"Cry Wolf": The most successful single from the album in the U.S., peaking at #50 on the Billboard Hot 100.

"Scoundrel Days": The title track is often cited by critics for its "tense edge" and Morten Harket’s soaring vocals. Remastered & Expanded Content aha scoundrel days remastered and expanded upd

The 2010 deluxe reissue expanded the original tracklist significantly, adding 21 bonus tracks to provide a deep look into the band’s creative process. Disc Content Key Features Disc 1

The original 10-track album, digitally remastered for improved clarity and "vibrancy," plus three extended remixes: "I've Been Losing You" (Extended Version), "Cry Wolf" (Extended Version), and "Manhattan Skyline" (Extended Remix). Disc 2

A collection of 18-22 "rare and unreleased gems," including early demos from Octocon Studios in Oslo recorded before the band signed their first major contract. Live Performances

Previously unreleased live recordings of "Train of Thought," "The Blue Sky," "We're Looking for the Whales," and "Cry Wolf". Demos & Alternates

Highlights include a guitar-led version of "Soft Rains of April," the "This Alone Is Love" original version, and multiple demos of "The Swing of Things". The Scoundrel Days Remastered and Expanded edition, released

What Does “UPD” Mean Here?

In music archiving and retail contexts, “UPD” almost always stands for “Updated” or “Update.” It signals that the release in question is a newer digital or physical pressing—correcting metadata, adding tracks, or remastering from better sources compared to a prior reissue. Sometimes it’s used internally by streaming services to flag a refreshed album page.

Final Verdict

A-ha were never just “Take on Me.” Scoundrel Days proved they were craftsmen of brooding, cinematic pop. This new Remastered and Expanded UPD respects that legacy fully. The audio restoration is transparent and thoughtful, the bonus material is genuinely rare, and the physical packaging honors the original design by Jeri Heiden.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a new listener curious about post-“Take on Me” A-ha, this is the definitive edition. The scoundrels have never sounded so good.

Rating: 9.5/10 – An essential upgrade. Only missing a full 5.1 surround mix (the Atmos compensates).

Have you picked up the new A-ha Scoundrel Days Remastered and Expanded UPD? Share your listening notes in the comments below. What Does “UPD” Mean Here

Disclosure: This article contains no affiliate links. All opinions are the author’s own, based on the 2025/2026 UPD pressings.

The “Remastered and Expanded” Treatment

Several official versions fall under this banner. The most notable are:

The Many Lives of Scoundrel Days: A Guide to the Remastered & Expanded Editions

If you’ve recently stumbled upon the phrase “Aha Scoundrel Days Remastered and Expanded UPD” while browsing forums, streaming services, or online music stores, you’re likely looking at shorthand for one of the most comprehensive reissue campaigns of the Norwegian synth-pop trio’s landmark 1986 album.

Let’s break down what each part of that term means, and what you actually get from these editions.

2. The Expanded Content (The "Expanded" part)

This isn't just a polish. The expanded edition adds a second disc (or digital album) of rare and unreleased material, including:

1. 2005 Rhino / Warner Bros. Remastered & Expanded CD

Bonus Blu-ray Audio (High-Res UPD Exclusive)