When the Rhino Records deluxe edition (the basis for this UPD) first dropped, critics were universally positive. Record Collector gave it 5 stars, stating: "A-ha’s dark masterpiece finally sounds like the classic it always was. The bass on 'The Weight of the Wind' will test your subwoofer." Pitchfork noted: "This remaster rescues Scoundrel Days from the sonic graveyard of mid-80s digital transfers."
Fans on Reddit and Steve Hoffman music forums have specifically praised this UPD for not boosting the treble—a common sin of old remasters.
The keyword “UPD” stands for the global, unified release strategy—simultaneous physical (2CD, 3LP vinyl, Blu-ray audio) and digital rollout across all platforms. This is not a cash-grab repress. It is a comprehensive archive. aha scoundrel days remastered and expanded upd
Release Date: October 17, 2025 (aligned with the original album’s October release month)
Label: Warner Music / Rhino Records (in partnership with Aha’s own Swing of Things Records)
Formats:
Pre-orders include an immediate download of the newly remastered “Manhattan Skyline” and the unreleased outtake “Broken Satellite.” When the Rhino Records deluxe edition (the basis
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. Pre-orders include an immediate download of the newly
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.
Disclosure: This article contains no affiliate links. All opinions are the author’s own, based on the 2025/2026 UPD pressings.