A HO-HUM OUTING FOR NORWAY’S A-HA

When the three Norwegian pinup boys who call themselves a-ha took the stage Friday at the Universal Amphitheatre, oh how all the Molly Ringwalds and Anthony Michael Halls who filled the place screamed-- eeeeeeeek ! But compared to the usual trendy teen idols, the trio’s casual faded blue-jeans look and low-key (read: dull) stage manner seemed quaint, though every twitch and grin brought squeals from the crowd.

The music? Though the hits “Take On Me” and “The Sun Always Shines on TV” have nearly indelible hooks, the performances Friday were undistinguished. Morten Harket is a noteworthy singer, but guitarist Pal Waaktaar and keyboardist Mags were merely adequate, while three supporting musicians added little beside the ability to re-create the group’s studio sound. But since when has the music really mattered with this kind of affair?

A-ha plays Tuesday at Irvine Meadows.