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| Music,
Richard Young,
02:00:00,
01 October 2001 |
Rating: F5
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An album release by Ms. Bjork Gudmundsdottir is somewhat of a major event in the world of alternative pop, and the latest offering from Iceland’s finest export is no exception, despite a typically muted response from the Posh ‘n Becks worshipping British press. Vespertine represents the latest in a line up of assorted life forms from the musical menagerie of the gymnastic voiced one, and a beautiful creature it is. Part angel, part clock, part circuit, Vespertine manages to retain a strong melodic core within its cotton-winged serenity.
An all female choir, scores of music boxes and some rhythmic digital crumbs supplied by electronica wizards Matmos all contribute to a collection of songs that soar and caress. The poppy elasticity of Bjork’s first album “Debut” or the dramatic boldness of “Homogenic” give way to a much more fragile vocal performance from the ex Sugar-Cube. Often just a single breath or a whisper suggests that Vespertine is perhaps the eye of Bjork’s musical storm. The purity of the voice in “Cocoon” for example is almost aural claustrophobia, while the space is opened out to infinity with the single “Hidden Place” or the incredibly moving “Undo”.
The choral elements perfectly compliment Bjork’s singularly unique vocal and songwriting talents. There are moments where the music drops out completely, leaving her voice hanging on a thread, heightening the impact of this new sonic territory. There are one or two glimpses of Bjork’s candy-coloured pop too, with the infectious “It’s not up to you” quickly becoming the kind of hook that sticks and won’t budge. There are also darker elements to be found among the snowy landscape, as “An Echo A Stain” contains the kind of otherworldly sounds and voices only to be found in the darker corners of Bjork’s magical kingdom.
Many seem to either love or hate Bjork’s music, but she is faithful to her lovers, and Vespertine will forever be remembered as this extraordinary artist’s most tender embrace.
Bjork Vespertine
One Little Indian
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