The 4th album just gets better (Vespertine - Björk)

Member Name: benlepensive

Product:	Vespertine - Björk
Date:	07/02/09 (4 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: string arrangements

Disadvantages: none

The fourth of Bjork's albums, unless one counts the 'Selma Songs' film soundtrack album. The last three Bjork albums had seen her developing as an artist and releasing more and more challenging material. This one again pushes the boundaries and is possibly Bjork at her most creative.

Who is she:

Icelandic singer Bjork sung at the 2004 Olympic Opening ceremony, she is famed for being weird and also press shy.

On this album:

'Hidden Place' is a great introduction, with eerie backing vocals from a choir, sitting well with Bjork's timid vocal delivery. She sings of this magical place she goes and it is one of those tracks where the lyrics perfectly match the melody of the song. 'Cocoon' is stripped down, bleak and teeters on the brink of breaking, yet never happens. The lyrics are erotic and very sexual, as Bjork sings about her partner in an intimate fashion. The song is not instant, but listen to it a few times and you will discover what a beauty it is.

Highlights:

'It's Not Up To You' starts in a plodding fashion before launching into a luxurious chorus with sweeping strings and a child choir. It is simply magical and one of those songs which makes you feel all tingly inside. 'Pagan Poetry' is also superb, as Bjork delivers intellectual content over a musicbox melody.

Weakest track:

'Sun In My Mouth' fails to ignite the senses.

Verdict: An original, uncompromising and shockingly good fourth album

Summary: magical