Avicii Forever marks the second posthumous album from Avicii, packed with 19 of his biggest hits, as well as one new, unheard track. Making his big break in 2011 with his single “Levels,” Tim Bergling (alias Avicii) took the electronic scene by storm, releasing hit after hit and performing at sold-out shows across the globe. Even after his passing in 2018, his legacy as a pioneering DJ and producer remains stronger than ever. This album is next in the long line of posthumous projects put together by the Avicii Estate in collaboration with Pophouse to honor Bergling and his lasting legacy on electronic music.
The album starts strong with two of Bergling’s biggest hits, “Wake Me Up” followed by “Levels.” Both songs feature nostalgic synths and textures from 2010s-era EDM. Aloe Blacc’s soulful vocal delivery paired with Bergling’s effortless blend of Electronica and Folk in “Wake Me Up” makes for a distinctive and memorable listen. “Levels” takes listeners back to the golden age of electronic music, with its memorable house rhythms and captivating synth melodies.
Following the two powerhouse tracks is the original track, “Let’s Ride Away,” featuring vocals by Elle King. Bergling originally worked on a version of this track with vocals by Kacey Musgraves, which didn’t manage to make it on a previous project. The production is typical of Bergling’s style – percussive keys, clean vocals, and folktronica elements dotted throughout. The lyrics, although simple, tell a story of adventure, freedom, and an unshakeable bond between two companions craving escapism. The arrangement progresses from vocal-focused sections to Bergling’s specialty synth hooks. It features similar sounds to tracks like “The Days” and “I Could Be The One,” which are also featured in this collection.
“Waiting For Love”, one of Bergling’s biggest hits to date, features punchy keys below Simon Aldred’s raw, emotional vocals. “Without You” introduces listeners to slightly more electro-infused elements in the hook, paired with heartfelt lyrics, perfectly capturing the pain of moving on after heartbreak. The album also featured tracks from his first posthumous album, TIM, released in 2019, including “SOS,” “Heart Upon My Sleeve” and “Heaven,” featuring vocals from Blacc, Imagine Dragons and Chris Martin. From the optimistic lyrics in “SOS” to the passionate rhythms in “Heart Upon My Sleeve” and the ethereal production of “Heaven” — these tracks truly showcase Bergling’s range and talent across many styles and genres, while still maintaining his own distinct sound.
Alongside those are some of Bergling’s earlier work from his albums ‘True’ and ‘Stories’, such as “Broken Arrows,” “You Make Me” and “Addicted To You.” “Broken Arrows” tells a raw, unfiltered story of moving past a difficult relationship, with melancholic lyrics layered over a soulful blend of country and electronic influences. Whereas “You Make Me” and “Addicted To You” feature more upbeat, dance-driven rhythms, showcasing Bergling’s ability to balance powerful storytelling with captivating, anthemic production.
All in all, Avicii Forever is a well-selected compilation of Bergling’s most memorable songs to date. The tracklist immaculately showcases Avicii’s journey and development as an electronic producer throughout his career. It serves as a bittersweet reminder of Bergling’s legacy and the incredible nostalgic memories his music created for listeners. His work will no doubt continue to inspire the next few generations of electronic producers and his impact on the industry remains unmatched — a testament to his pure talent and passion towards his craft.
Listen to ‘Avicii Forever’ here:
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