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Rating:
THE REVIEW
"Vespertine" is, for me, Bjork's best album. In this record, the artist fully expresses her creativity and musical sensitivity, offering true gems.
The genesis of this album, released in August 2001, was quite unique: initially, Bjork wanted to use sounds created exclusively with the computer (the project was supposed to be titled "Domestika," like a track that later became a b-side) and create a minimalist album. Then everything changed: an Inuit girls' choir and an arranged orchestra directed by maestro Vince Mendoza (who, among other things, also arranged the wonderful "Ricomincio da qui" by Malika Ayane) were brought in. The arrangements are therefore rich in tracks like "Hidden Place", supreme, chosen as the first single. A cold electronic beat opens the track with Bjork's delicate voice, then gradually it builds with strings, heavenly choirs, and some flutes. "Aurora" also contemplates a constant intervention of choir and orchestra. In this regard, I recommend searching for the performances the artist held in 2002 at the Royal Opera House on Youtube to promote the album: they are touching!
The other gems in the album are "It’s Not Up To You", which should have been released as a single!! It's the most varied track: minimal at times, overflowing in the arrangement at other points. "Undo" is mystical, calm, meditative, another masterpiece. "An Echo A Stain" is the most "challenging" track on the album: practically atonal (it seems to be in A major, but Bjork sings notes foreign to the key), immersed in a haunting and heartbreaking atmosphere at the same time. "Pagan Poetry" and "Frosti" are enveloping, both guided by the sound of a music box. "Cocoon" is a lullaby, minimalist, with a keyboard, rustles, and a delicately erotic voice. "Unison" is a heavenly track, with a beautiful melody. "Heirloom" and "Sun in my mouth" are appreciable but minor. "Harm Of Will" is completely negligible.
The album artwork is excellent: I recommend buying the original (I found it in a shop in my city for only 5€, so I took advantage of it!! And I did great)!
For Bjork's beginners, I suggest starting with this album, then continuing with "Medúlla," her second masterpiece. Bjork is a unique artist in her genre, difficult to appreciate but highly enjoyable if listened to "with the right ears." I recommend it to anyone who doesn't stop at something more "challenging," less predictable than what's "trending."
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Summary by Bot
This review praises Bjork's 'Vespertine' as her best album, highlighting its unique blend of minimalist electronic beats, orchestral arrangements, and emotive vocals. The reviewer points out standout tracks like 'Hidden Place,' 'Undo,' and 'An Echo A Stain,' emphasizing the album's complexity and emotional depth. Recommendations include experiencing Bjork’s 2002 Royal Opera House performances and exploring later works like 'Medúlla.' Overall, the album is described as a challenging but rewarding listen.Tracklist Lyrics Videos
Björk
Björk Guðmundsdóttir is an Icelandic singer, songwriter and producer known for her solo work since the early 1990s (after earlier projects including the Sugarcubes). She is noted for vocal experimentation, genre-defying albums and inventive live shows.40 Reviews
Other reviews
By lovi
From my honest perspective, I find it a masterpiece of class and skill.
This is an album that lives on silences, sometimes sad and melancholic, other times dreamy and hopeful.
By So_av
Bjork is much, much more than an Icelandic pixie or techno-naturalist.
Vespertine captures the magic and the nuances of Bjork’s intense world, serenely making even those who want to embark on this journey with her feel ethereal.
By desade
"Vespertine remains the best result of the musical experimentation performed by the ice sprite."
"You should let yourself be enveloped like in a cocoon, just as happens to Bjork in the 'Cocoon' video."
