Reviews (page 7 of 8)
Love Bjork as an artist. Still can’t handle the discordance
KRIVO SAM REJTALA AEROSMITH!!!! AEROSMITH 5!!!!
The kind of artistic stunt that I'm not surprised Bjork was actually able to pull off. It's got some great moments as well as some that are difficult to listen through, but an all vocal album that still sounds artistic and not like Glee or Pentatonix is a success
Your sweat is salty, I am the reason
Aloft, light as air Abrupt, shocking as lightning Aloof, tech folk witch
So many negative reviews about this Bjork album. It is a challenging listen the first time as it occupies a unique place. Once you have listened to the album a couple times the shock wears off and you can really appreciate what she has created. Very simple and stripped down album, while still being quite complex and rich.
1+ Star (3/15)
Bjork has such a unique sound. I never know what I will get when listening to an album by her. I love everything she does.
There is nothing you can say that will convince me that this is good music. Even Björk herself sings in a way that sounds like she's forcing it out, like she also doesn't want to hear herself sing.
A mature weirdness from Bjork!
Answer me one question: wtf
I've only got the Best Of album Bjork compiled from her fans' responses, good to listen to something else. Medúlla was brilliant, loved it.
Björk a mangé ses musiciens pour faire le pire album d’ASMR. Pour ceux qui aime se faire postillonner dans les oreilles pendant 45 minutes, c’est peut-être même pas la meilleure expérience sur le marché.
More weird music for normal people. Bring back The Flying Pickets, I say.
I didn't want to enjoy this. I've never got my head around Björk . But I loved the creativity as each track builds up. It's not exactly sing-a-long classics. Being challenged is never a bad thing. She's a one.
Nope
This was the first Bjork record that I didn't immediately love when it was first released. Over time though, I began to appreciate it more and more. Almost every sound on the album is produced vocally. Mike Patton from Faith No More and Rahzel from the Roots appear. Who is It, Oceania, and Triumph of a Heart are all stand outs but the whole record is so innovative and interesting.
Another old friend. Finally got to see her tour with this album. This woman is a genius on another level.
Granted it's experimental. But too much of her voice makes me go crazy
I like some Bjork but did not enjoy this.
weird af
Mest bara jobbigt.
A little too abstract for me. Not bad though.
Очень динамичный альбом. Хотя альбом оказался в местном списке, есть ощущение, что его немного недооценивают на фоне Vespertine и всех предыдущих, отчего я, при всей любви к ней, до сих пор его не слушал. Здесь есть, конечно, странные моменты, вроде Ancestors, но в общем и целом такая Bjork мне сильно понятнее, чем ее пост-Vulnicura эра. Лучшая песня - Where Is The Line.
One of my three stars in my overall rating (I'm shocked I'm giving a Bjork album three stars) is due specifically to the melodic, haunting quality that Bjork and company's vocals create on Medulla. This is, as a Reddit user stated, very much a "headphones album." You need to wear some while listening to truly appreciate that. The throat singer Tagaq has some very impressive vocal (throat?) work throughout. The singles ("Who Is It," "Triumph of a Heart") as well as the song "Oceanic" (performed live during the 2004 Olympics opening ceremonies, I forgot about that) hold their own--and the layered vocals on basically every track are certainly interesting throughout. The lyrics are nothing I can consider anything but confusing. This was unsurprising, given Bjork is, well, Bjork. "Ancestors" is by far the most disarming song on this album and contains more musical panting and grunting than I was ever prepared for. Random observation: I swear the glitchy synth loop in Desired Constellation is wildly similar to the Nintendo Wii menu music! Does anyone else hear that too? Ultimately Medulla feels, to me, like auditory performance art more than an album of songs. It's anything but traditional, and I know Bjork wouldn't have it any other way. Interesting factoids from Wikipedia: *Björk intended to make an album almost entirely a cappella constructed with human vocals, in opposition to the previous album's intense process of composition and multiple layers of instrumentation. *The album's title derives from the Latin word for "marrow". *Whilst working on initial ideas for the album, an eight-months pregnant Björk began adding her own live drumming to arrangements that already had several instruments. She then started muting the instruments, and liked the result of it. *She was inspired by paganism, and the idea of returning to a universe that is entirely human, without tools or religion or nationalities. "I wanted the record to be like muscle, blood, flesh. We could be in a cave somewhere and one person would start singing, and another person would sing a beat and then the next person sing a melody, and you could just kind of be really happy in your cave. It's quite rootsy", she added. *American R&B singer Beyoncé was planned to be featured on the album as well, but she did not appear due to scheduling issues. When asked what she liked about Beyoncé, Björk stated that "[Medúlla] is an album about voices, and she's got the most amazing voice." Standouts: Who Is It (Carry My Joy On The Left, Carry My Pain On The Right), Desired Constellation, Oceania, Triumph Of A Heart
The album is impressive as an intellectual and conceptual experiment. The human voice is truly a magical instrument. However, it’s also a challenging listen. I’ve never been a fan of Bjork’s music and this album isn’t going to change my mind.
Really enjoyed her first 2 albums, and the reminded me why I stopped listening to her. Just a bit screechy vocals in too many of the songs. Gave up half way through.
Oblongata
Terrible orgy pop. I’m amazed I made it to the end
More quirky weirdness from Björk - an album consisting only of human vocals with no instruments whatsoever. However, it's still her usual haunting meolodies and vocals.
Not really a fan
Good
This. Is. FANTASTIC! I've heard Bjork songs before and really enjoy the sounds of her voice. But the opening, and first half of this album have very discordant melodies that almost flow like am opera. I LOVE THIS and am so glad you introduced this album! I'm going to play it on repeat. OH, but there were a couple of songs that sound like pop songs, especially the very last song. Didn't like those. So I'll give her 4 stars.
Not for me. Thought I might like it as i have heard some of her music before but no, sorry.
This Bjork album is tremendous. The arrangements are made up of mostly vocal sounds though not quite entirely a cappella. Reminds me of the group Mycale that did a fully a cappella John Zorn record, but with an edge provided by the harsher tones of Mike Patton, Rahzel, and the Inuit throat singer Tanya Tagac. First rate mouth sounds all around. Enchanting and beautiful from the first note, this is a gem of a record.
Very strange album. Listened to one of her other albums before on this list and really liked it, this one not as much. 2/5 Won’t listen again
Nope. Can’t stand it. I don’t get the hype about Björk.
I appreciate the creativity, but the result is awful for the most part. Favorite song: Who is it?
Medulla... Oblongata? Bjork always had weird albums, but this may be the weirdest. It's almost borderline inaccessible.
I like Björk, it's not the best I've heard from her though.
Björk is not my thing personally.
I can get behind some ethereal sounding stuff, and I get the intended vibe, but man Björk is weird af and not in a good way sadly. Tough listen for me, weird moaning, whatever. 2 outta five
After 1 Sugarcubes & 2 solo albums, we are at Björk no. 4 Unexpected CanCon with Tanya Tagaq 🚨 Though using “Ancestors” as an example, this is definitely not an album to put on at a party. Inuit throat singing sometimes induces a fight-or-flight response in me :0 Other songs give off renaissance fair vibes (Öll Birtan) Definitely pushes into a more ambient soundscape, as hinted at in Vespertine (“Desired Constellation”) Like her debut, a mixed bag in the best way. It’s too niche and strange to go around recommending this to my friends (even compared to the other 3 Björks), but it’s also a gem I’m glad to have come across. HL: “Where is the Line”, "Vökuró", "Who is It", “Oceania”, “Mouth’s Cradle” February 15, 2024
This can only be described as a trip. Björk obviously has an amazing voice, but a lot of these songs didn't use it to her fullest. The weird mix of beat boxing and the obsession with trying to put the most random sounds into songs definitely brought this down. In saying that, The final track Triumph Of A Heart, somehow works really really well. It shouldn't, but it does.
Not a fan
Experimental, poppy, trance-like
Weird ass album
Crazy
Challenging
I love Bjork and I really respect what she did with this vocal-only album. But it doesn't fully work in its entirety, just individual songs ("Who is it" is my favorite)
one of my favorite bjork albums, really grew on me with each listen, it's such a pleasant experience. really no words for this. ICON.
yeah nawr 1/10
Honestly, I thought this was awesome and I'm gonna come back to it. It's creepy, dramatic, and weird, but Bjork sneaks in some catchy pop moments that sneak up and grab you. The way she uses beatboxing in these tracks is also super sick; it reminded me a little bit of soundcloud rap at times. Favorite Songs: Pleasure Is All Mine, Who Is It
Too avant garde for me. It felt like vines were wrapping around me - 4/10
Pretty weird, which was expected. Glad I listened to it though.
Tbh didn’t feel super strongly about this which is kinda disappointing, I definitely do not appreciate the creative choices being made but doesn’t extemely hit or miss 5/10
Loved it tbh. I think I like albums where the production feels very raw and there’s nothing between my ears and the artist’s voice. I felt that way about the lead vocals on this album, although the background / accompanying vocals were of course heavily modified. Awesome rhythmic stuff even if there were some weird sounds sometimes. 8.5/10
4/10 - It was absolutely insane but in kind of a bad way. Some of the songs but most were crazy and I could not vibe with. Where is the line and Who Is It both grew on me as they played.
kinda liked it but it was a little too weird for me at times, she has a really good voice though 6.5/10
Bjork weird as fuck but still pretty good. Throat singing song was one of the strangest I’ve ever heard. 7/10
Not my favourite Bjork album, but still very good with a decent share of 5 star songs.
I appreciate Bjork's work, even this record, but I did not have much fun listening to it and nearly developed a headache.
Very innovative album. The layered singing and sounds are bizarre. I can see the appeal. Almost reminds me a bit of the singer of portishead. Not really sure this was my cup of tea but I can see how someone can find this groundbreaking. 3.33
Took me a while to get into when it first came out, but it's a great record
Ethereal and strange. Made more sense when I read about what she was trying to do, but not very accessible on a first listen. I love her though.
Strange and beautiful. Two of my favourite adjectives.
It's Björk! What did you expect? It's unusual, experimental, sometimes annoying, sometimes elevating. It's music you should listen to, it's not made to please you.
I get the ambition. I feel the talent. I appreciate some of the vocal achievements. I do not intend to listen to this again, by choice.
Damn that actually was pretty awesome. I really liked the voices and stuff
I started doing this project so I would be sure to always have something new to eat up a chunk of time while I’m driving at work. Since I’m at work I need to be sober. I really need to listen to this album again when I’m stoned. I prefer when she sings in her native Icelandic language, I don’t have to worry about understanding her or how weird her pronunciations are. But in all it’s very neat and haunting stuff. But it’s also not something you’d want to randomly pop up in your Spotify feed.
Whoa, this is incredible! Bjork uses the power of vocals and harmonies to anchor the soundscape. Some breathy sounds aren't my favorite but are very effective.
High point: Who Is It Low point: Ancestors
Interesting album. Some of it works, some doesn't.
Interesting and innovative but not fun or cool in any way for me. I guess this is too avant garde for me to appreciate properly I guess. The vocal techniques showcased are impressive... but also a bit off-putting for me personally.
Some cool stuff - her voice is amazing overall and I’ll definitely go back to “Who Is It” - but in general, I’m just not super into it. Very cool concept and arrangements, though. 2.5/5
If I could give it less than 1 star I would.
Unique ethereal sound
Terrible
Less out there experimental than I remember. OK for Ms Gudmundsdottir.
File this in the basket marked 'challenging'
I have post and debut in my collection which are both great albums, this, IMO, is awful, turned off after a few songs to save my ears
Spooky and whimsical
Björk has their fans. And I applaud that. I also applaud the musicianship and creativity on display here.
Horrid
This is one to return to cause it’s interesting, but was just not ready for bjork in the morning
Had some really goods songs, like Who Is It? But it was just too slow and weird in general. Missed some more upbeat songs to break the monotony.
Singles: ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Who Is It (Carry My Joy on the Left, Carry My Pain on the Right) Triumph of a Heart Probably the most listenable Bjork album - with just a little bit of Bjork-weirdness. I like this one. Standouts: Who is it, Where is the Line, Pleasure is All Mine, Triumph of a Heart, Oll birtan. 4/5
When it all comes together, Björk's music can really click and resonate with me. Often though, I find myself wishing for a bit more consistency of tracks. 3/5
Bjork is incredibly unique. There are some songs I've really enjoyed in the past, but overall has never been my style. This album doesnt represent what I like about Bjork and I didnt recognize any songs. Her voice is also unique which is really cool, but it can go from buttery magic in one track to nails on a chalkboard on the next track. Hope to hear more Bjork down the line but I disliked this album specifically.
🧞♀️
on savait déjà que tout le monde était sexiste ici
Not my cup of tea. Only impressed it got made, and I do not understand the acclaim.
This is probably too experimental for my mood. It's a bit jarring but there's some good songs on this album. The creativity is off the charts with the approach of each song. Enjoyability is more variable.
The concept of jurassic park has scientists, geniuses in their respective fields, create something in defiance of nature. A huge feat and worthy of praise. Bjork has always seemed an artist's artist. Genius in her field, worthy of praise. As a normal Joe though I am left wondering the JP quote "did you ever think you should" make this album. A-capella as a choice is impressive but felt like it died years ago for a reason.
glorious execution. In the end its all about the execution.
I hope this album wasn't included to ensure continental equality. This was a tough listen. Part goth rock, part Gregorian chants, part experimental throat sounds. I was expecting to hear "bud" "Wei" "ser" somewhere in there. But don't worry, I'm not going to complain. What would I actually say if I met her? I don't think you ever want to ask a musician to explain themselves, do you? "What's the track that has the greatest meaning for you? Which songs do you hum when you're doing the dishes?" I just don't know. I guess I don't want her to ask me why I'm giving this album the rating that I'm giving it. Who Is It is pretty good.
Sure it's adventurous, but when have i ever felt like "sure, I'm in the mood for Medulla!" It is generally strange, but then there are several cringey moments, well featured in Ancestors and Triumph of a Heart that just make you go "WTF?" Who Is It and Oceania are the closest to traditional deliveries and I'd be a lot more engaged if the rest wasn't as artsy/experimental. To each their own... this one isn't mine.
I appreciate that she was trying to do something different. It just wasn't for me.
Cool af some bangers. Tight when piano comes in, but the voice stuff is fun
I really do like Bjork but this album was just ok. I'm not sure why it's on the list. :(
I liked this way more than I should
Ailishin pilli.. Hehehe... Billy.. vai... Hehheh.... Billy ailiiishi... hehehe. islanti valtaistuimella seisoo.. länsimaiden valokeilassa nautiskelee... remote island not like boring finlan mainland... ei viikinkifantasiaa.. hollywoodfantasiaa suomessa tarpeeksi... björkki kuulostaa erikoisen epäerikoiselta... yrittää tehdä jotain.... jotain mitä kaikki muut tekee... ja annettu valokeilaa koska politiikka, islantiulkopolitiikka.... where is the line
This is so beautiful, it brought me to tears. Literal tears. The layered vocal harmonies, particularly on Mouth's Cradle, are from another planet.
Collections of random sounds set to a piano or choir.
My favorite bjork album on the list. She gets really out there
It’s never been so hard for me to get through an album.
She's definitely talented. Just not my cup of tea.
Best Songs: Who Is It?, Oceania, Mouth's Cradle Listen Again: Yes
weird pero nice voice?? idk not for me rn
Have heard a lot about Björk, but never really explored her music. At first I wasn't that struck, but it grew on me after a while. The album is quite uneven; there are many songs that didn't really pan out that well, like 'Ancestors' with the weird breathing and moaning, or 'Where Is The Line' with strange sampled vocals that make up the bassline. I think I would describe it as more impressive and interesting rather evoking of that primal feel you can get when you hear some really good music where you just want to hear it again. Many times there are only acapella vocals and choirs, which is cool, but it is perhaps not the kind of music I typically listen to. A thing that must be said is that this must've been extremely progressive and far ahead of the curve when it came in 2004. I feel that I recognize a lot of elements in this music in some of Lorde's or newer modern music. Also, it feels fresh and sounds great for being from 2004, it might as well have been from this year for all I'm concerned. Perhaps not my favourite album here, but I am very glad I heard it and it widened my view on music!
Very experimental with some hits and misses. Personally i enjoyed "Where is The Line" probably the most with it's aggressive beat and "Who is it" for a more chill vibe. Honestly if this was released today i wouldn't be that impressed but it is so ahead of the curve being released in 2004. Thinking of where artists such as "Arca" and "Holly Herndon" would take it further 10+ years later. So how do you judge it? By the merits today or it's groundbreaking merits. I think I'll ignore some of the stinkers and write it of as experimentation from the time and give it a very strong 3. Worth a listen.
Sounds, not good ones
Not my style, didn't like it
Aldri heilt forstått meg på Bjørk
Satte seg ikkje heilt
Not fun to listen to. Bonus star for Rahzel beat boxing making it SLIGHTLY tolerable.
Have to hand it to Bjork, she is very good at gasping, panting and breathing. I can appreciate the concept of the album but did not enjoy.
I like Bjork. I do not like Bjorkappella.
Bro is spittin’
Maybe it’s because I’ve listened to more Bjork this week than my entire life, but god this sucks. Where’s the music.
No thanks love
For me, Bjork is like an acquired taste, and its impressive how she manages to maintain that album to album; I find myself having to reset my expectations and appraise each album on its own merit. I enjoyed this about as much as most 3s but I gotta give it a 4 for the amount of balls it has.
Almost an a cappella album. Would probably grow on repeat listening.
And so, we return to the world of Björk. I listened to Vulnicura a few days ago for this project, and I quite liked it. I thought it was a really good album. So, how does Medulla compare? Well, I think this one's good too. It's very refreshing to listen to an avant-garde album that doesn't make you want to tear your ears off after listening to Duck Stab yesterday. I think the idea of having an album focused primarily on a cappella is one with some substantial merit to it. While this album isn't totally instrument-less, it does focus on instruments less than the average album. Björk's singing is still quite good. This album was released 11 years before Vulnicura, and her voice didn't change much in that time, which is something that I consider to be good. This album isn't as focused as Vulnicura. That one was clearly a concept album through and through. While this album does occasionally go back to common themes tying to motherhood and politics, it's not as evident through the lyrics, which are a bit more abstract than they were in Vulnicura. Overall, while I liked that album a bit more, I do still think that Medulla is a good album, and my opinion of Björk's music remains a positive one. High 3/5.
I'm not even gonna start it. I've listened to it a million times.
Ugh not Bjork again 🙄
Took only a couple songs to nope
Not my favourite bjork. Just didn’t get into it.
my first björk album!!! -of course i have heard of her but have never listened to her music -the noises in the beginning of this song are……interesting -this is definitely weird but im waiting to see if its my kind of weird or not -WOAH THOSE SOUNDS IN WHERE IS THE LINE -this does feel a little like something that would play in a fight scene in a game of thrones type show -like its giving warrior music -who is it is the first song i actually kinda like -this is something i would not listen to again -BUT! it is very interesting to listen to -her voice is very mystical and i like that -overall this is a 2 star album for me just because its a little too strange weird for me Not in a good way
i dont tihnk ill ever understand bjork.
You can put all the Björk you want on here but it doesn’t mean I ever have to get into it
Björk can moan at me all she wants
Severely overlooked album! A lot of people get hung up on the song only ”gimmick”, when the music is as strong as any Björk album. Of course there’s a more experimental edge than on her previous albums, and the sound palette isn’t for everyone. But it is for me! Classic Björk as far as I’m concerned
Sebulba
There's simply no way I'm listening to this album again
Expect the unexpected from Bjork. This is an ambitious work that is not overly successful. There are passages that are grating and other spellbinding. Difficult to know when this would get played.
The a capella aspect of the background music was interesting, but I'm not a fan of the actual vocals. 3/5 for creativity. Maybe I'll like Bjork music someday. Triumph of a Heart was a fun surprise at the end of the album, because Rahzel doing the backing track was a fun surprise.
2/3
Our favorite little swan takes to flight and abandons the dancefloor, much to the dismay of all the clubgoers, but alights at last upon a steeple, and in her sudden and unexpected flight she brings along a chorus of voices, inspired by her own natural instrument and ready to experiment with her. Take your time. Breathe. Concentrate. Or not. It doesn't matter. The song actually sings itself, and you can consciously add to it or let yourself be unconsciously swept along. Why not try both?
2.3/5 Like 20% of this was pretty good, 60% was whatever, and 20% was barely listenable. Weird af lmao Best track: Vokuro
I liked this better than I expected. Interesting all-vocal concept. Not one I'd listen to much, but it was fun to experience once.
Interesting lol
This album had so many surprising moments of chaos. Loved it.
This reminds me of Sonic Youth’s experimental albums. Not an album you return to regularly, but when you do it’s brimming full of new musical ideas
I've never heard anything like this. Incredible.
Experimental and probably very accomplished. But not at all my thing. I had to fast forward some songs.
Eh this was ok but definitely not my thing. Her voice can either be really beautiful yet annoying at times.
Not my favorite Björk Album
An Björk komme ich nicht ran.
my god that was painful. 1 star because there is nothing lower
Less my style but great use of voice/breathing
14th female artist on the list out of 159 albums... Not really for me, honestly I welcomed the change of pace from the rest of the list, but it was a bit much for me at times. I would say I probably wouldn't listen again.
The first half was awesome! Love the a capella. Toward the second half, it started taking a turn for the strange. Nonetheless, I appreciate the experimentation.
This was a weird one that I hadn’t listened to before. I loved her first two albums.
I like Bjork. She's experimental and weird. This is not her best album. Too experimental and weird for me. 2/5
For this dumpster fire, Bjork decided to make a completely a cappella album, so there are no instruments at all. Just voices making ungodly noises. I feel like I should like Bjork's music, but I just don't. Like for this album she paired up with beat boxers, Mike Patton of Faith No More, as well as Inuit throat singers. It should be good, but it just isn't. Bjork just ends up layering too many voices on top of one another, and it just ends up giving me a headache. In a few songs, she uses heavy breathing as a "musical instrument" of sorts. Fuck off, I don't need to listen to wheezing. I think what drives me nuts is when she constantly switches time signatures, or starts into a really fucking weird time signature. It makes my brain itch. Overall, a few tolerable songs, but for the most part, just hot garbage that hipsters would love ironically. This was better than her other album I reviewed (Debut). Let's hope this is the last of her albums on this list. Favourite songs: Who Is It (Carry My Joy on the Left, Carry My Pain on the Right), Where is the Line, Vokuro Least favourite songs: Ancestors, Oceania, Oll Birtan, Show Me Forgiveness, Desired Constellation 2/5
Having never listened to Björk before I didn't know what to expect with this album. Norwegian throat singing/beatboxing was definitely a surprise but what's more of a surprise was that I didn't hate it. While this album is almost certainly one I will not return to it was an interesting listen so it gets a 2 out of 5.
Maybe I just wasn’t in the mood but yikes idk
She’s amazing.this is full of so many strange emotions.
That's Bjork alright.
Wow. She is just so .... different. First time hearing this one. I have a favorable opinion of her and her music so I go into each album knowing it's going to be weird, but probably weirdly good. This one was no exception. I don't know any of the songs. The singles: Who is it and Triumph of the Heart sound ok, but definitely not the most interesting songs on the album. But, I need more time with this one. Very nice first listen. 3/5
Possibly the funniest album to give to your dad
The singing and music is quite good. It's a little experimental, which is sometimes bad. But it's largely really good. It's a little theatrical, or video game music-like. Reminds me a lot of Imogen Heap, who I like as well. Some of the voice sounds are just weird, but I assume that's part of the point (sighing and breathing, grunting/animal/sex noises). Ancestors is horrible - the heavy breathing and grunting is just bad. It sits in the middle of avant-garde (and unlistenable) and actually good (like something I want to listen to). Would have been a 4 if certain songs weren't so off-putting.
I rate this 3 on its uniqueness alone. I like how it’s primarily human voices as the instrumentation, I just don’t particularly care for the songs the human voices are creating.
I’m never going to listen to this again but it was interesting this time.
This is really beautiful. It took me a minute to get into it, but this is a singularly creative, exceptionally well crafted album. Bjork's arrangements are somehow both minimalist and complex at the same time, with layered vocals doing the heavy lifting, augmented with spare use of instrumentation. The result is a sonic landscape that is both ethereal and mildly unsettling. Bjork herself is in perfect voice and her songwriting is surprisingly intimate. Fave Songs: Who Is It (Carry My Joy on the Left, Carry My Pain on the Right), Desired Constellation, Vökuró, Oceania, Mouth's Cradle
“Medulla”, Bjork’s wild and wonderful fifth album, is a fascinating exploration of sound and song. It’s designed to be played in the early hours of the morning, when the world is at its most unseen, its most mysterious, its most beautiful. So, as luck would have it, I came to first hear this album at five a.m, jet-lagged and wired, with no expectations. And I was blown away. I can totally accept that this will not be to everyone’s taste. Bjork’s music can be difficult to stomach even at its most accessible, and this pushes her sonic experimentation to its outer limits. But the sheer craft of “Medulla” deserves nothing but praise. Almost every sound heard on this record is a vocalisation, either from Bjork or various featured artists. From symphonic choirs to whistling, beatboxing to heavy breathing, throat singing to whatever the hell is going on in “Triumph of a Heart”, everything is stitched together into a Frankenstein-style forty minute tribute to the human voice. Every song is an ice sculpture of sound, meticulously crafted and flawlessly executed. Sometimes the vocals are crystal clear, like in the plaintive a capella of “Show Me Forgiveness” or the Icelandic, medieval-style chant of “Vokuro”. Sometimes they’re warped and distorted, like in the brilliant, unhinged “Where Is The Line” (a Disney song from hell) or the sample running through “Desired Constellation”. I particularly enjoy the combination of “glugging” noises and the choir in “Mouth’s Cradle”, a highlight of the album. But perhaps most startling of all are the singles, two songs that somehow charted and are among the most accessible Bjork tracks I’ve heard. “Who Is It” is transcendent beauty, and “Triumph of a Heart”, against all odds, is a dance track with “mouth trombone” and an exhilarating rhythm accompaniment. On the flip side, “Ancestors” pushes the format to its absolute limit: much as I’d love to be more open-minded, I can only tolerate so much throat-singing. It’s also a bit of a shame to hear piano creeping in to accompany the voices, breaking the aura cast over most of the rest of the album. And elsewhere, the a capella, solo melody tracks have little to distinguish them from each other and end up not adding a great deal of substance to the runtime. This isn’t a perfect album: it may not going into my regular rotation, and there are even other works by Bjork I prefer (“Vespertine”, probably “Homogenic”). But I can honestly say “Medulla” is beyond anything I’ve ever heard: a true work of art.
oerhört busigt album. består nästan bara av mänskliga ljud
Nä det här var nåt helt annat. Oerhört svårt att koncentrera sig med det här oväsendet i öronen
2.5
Album sucked lol
Jackson Pollock: Cool start, intimate sounds. Second track decent, third abrasive without being rewarding. I'm leaning towards a 3-4. I don't know if I would come back to this unless I proper got into Bjork. Its very unique sounding, but I think I preferred my first listen of another album of hers. The vocals actually remind me a little of one of the BCNR singers. Favs: Pleasure is all mine Who is it Oceania Least Favs: Where is the line Overall:
Too experimental for me.
NOT a fan
i mean it’s interesting but it just doesn’t sound good
Good God. Can people handle a full album of this sound? This guy can't. Kooky little Eskimo had the weirdness dial cranked to 11 on this one.
What the hell is this?
Kokeellista ja erikoista, mutta niin on myös Björk niin ei yllättänyt. Aika pitkälti acapella Ei kauheasti miellyttänyt musiikillisesti, mutta ei kummiskaan vituttanut suunnattomasti niin 2 tähteä. Ymmärrän kyllä 1 tähdet kanssa
Third Björk album and I can definitively say I don’t get it - the instrumentals hit some notable highs and scratch the experimental itch, but the vocals kill me every time. The repetition, odd rhythmic delivery, just all of it. I get this is her thing but as someone who is an instrumental listener first I just cannot digest what sits on top of some stellar electronic backing tracks.
Aw, here she is. I love her so much. "Desired Constellation" is just what I need. A lot of this holds up beyond proof of concept, almost 20 years later. She could release it next year and nobody would blink.
Completely mad, uncomfortable and beautiful.
Is it possible to give a -1 star rating?
A wacky yet charming experimental album, she has something that just makes her craziness endearing.
Not something I'd listen to every day but you can't deny the genius
just not for me but it’s nice that she’s trying
I want to like Bjork but this often just puts me on edge. Its experimental and I admire what she's done but its too much for one sitting.
Ok, I can make it through Debut and even some of Vespertine but this is almost unenjoyable. I support Bjork and her artistic integrity, but this just shows how far you can go with the vocally driven, casual choral, rhythmically challenging sub-genre of electro-oddness.
An album where the instruments are entirely* (*mostly) vocals deserves its place on the list, if done well, and this is done pretty well. The crack team of guest vocalists are employed in an impressive variety of ways: mimicking percussion/brass/synths, adding choral backing, or making completely unique sounds. The two singles (Who Is It, Triumph Of A Heart) successfully manage to create something that's definitely pop music, just not as we're used to. Of course, this being Björk, she doesn't just experiment with the instrumentation but the song structures, phrasing, melodies etc etc. Like most of her 21st century output, it's a pretty challenging listen a lot of the time. Even repeated plays don't guarantee that some tracks will ever 'click'... Still, little bits of magic frequently do reveal themselves, and the sounds are intriguing enough to keep me trying for more. I once listened to this while travelling through Iceland's rugged landscapes and the music matched the scenery nicely: sometimes beautiful, sometimes stark, but always having an impenetrable, alien quality. 3.5
Who Is It // Sonnets / Unrealities XI //
da fuck is this
5/10. You know, I really want to like Bjork. Because she's doing some cool sounding stuff on this album, and her lyrics are cool as well. But I just really can't stand listening to her singing for a whole album.
I dunno. It wasn’t terrible but I don’t really wanna listen to this again. 5/10
Björk's album "Medúlla" offers a diverse musical journey that ranges from moments of pure pleasure, funky sounds, and unique originality to perplexing experimentation. "Pleasure is all mine" delights the senses, "Where is the line" grooves with funky beats, and "Oll Birtan" stands out with its captivating acapella. "Who Is It" impresses with its cool sound, while "Ancestors" is a peculiar yet unforgettable experience. "Triumph of the heart" closes the album on a funky note, making "Medúlla" an intriguing and unconventional musical adventure. (Written partly by ChatGPT)
Just not really my kind of thing.
interesting sound, generally enjoyed it. Not sure how to process.
WTF ?
jörk, the Icelandic musical genius, has always pushed the boundaries of what's possible in the realm of music. With her 2004 release, "Medúlla," she not only continued her sonic exploration but ventured into uncharted territory by crafting an album almost entirely from human voices and vocal samples. "Medúlla" is a testament to Björk's unparalleled creativity and innovation, pushing the boundaries of the human voice and electronic manipulation. From the very first track, "Pleasure Is All Mine," Björk's hauntingly ethereal vocals immediately grab your attention. The album flows seamlessly, creating a unique atmosphere that feels otherworldly yet deeply human. "Medúlla" is a sonic experiment that bridges the gap between organic and artificial, as it features vocal beats, throat singing, beatboxing, and choirs. One of the standout tracks on the album is "Who Is It," which features a choir of voices mimicking the sounds of a full orchestra. The result is a stunning and emotionally charged composition that showcases Björk's ability to harness the power of the human voice in unimaginable ways. "Vökuro" is another highlight, a solemn and beautiful track that encapsulates the album's overall introspective mood. Throughout "Medúlla," Björk collaborates with a diverse range of artists, including beatboxer Rahzel, singer Anohni, and avant-garde vocal artist Mike Patton. These collaborations add depth and diversity to the album, making it a rich tapestry of vocal experimentation. Lyrically, "Medúlla" explores themes of love, nature, and the human condition. Björk's abstract yet poignant lyrics are open to interpretation, inviting listeners to connect with the music on a personal level. Her emotional delivery and unique vocal textures convey a sense of vulnerability and authenticity that is both moving and thought-provoking. While "Medúlla" is undeniably a masterpiece in terms of innovation and creativity, it may not be for everyone. Its experimental nature and unconventional soundscapes can be challenging for those accustomed to more mainstream or traditional music. However, for those willing to embark on a sonic adventure, "Medúlla" offers a deeply rewarding and transformative listening experience. In conclusion, Björk's "Medúlla" is a groundbreaking album that pushes the boundaries of what can be achieved with the human voice and electronic manipulation. It is a testament to Björk's artistic vision and her ability to create music that is both daring and emotionally resonant. While it may not be accessible to all listeners, those who appreciate innovation and artistic risk-taking will find "Medúlla" to be a captivating and unforgettable musical journey.
really great, love the throat singing and percussion
To be clear, Björk is an artist, and this album is a great example of her work. But her music works for me better when she creates within the constraints of a song. Her other, freer tracks are fine, but I keep returning to her songs.
Didn't have a desire to get through the whole album. It started alright, but not for me.
So odd but fun
I’m not a fan.
Some weird stuff. Pleasant though,
Awful experience, a constant head ache ... wtf is this shit considered to be music ?!
Ovo mi je jedan od najdražih albuma nultih
Bonkers
A bit much for me. Had a few cool songs, though.
Brilliant concept that is just a bit too self indulgent. Bjork is one of a kind and makes the entirety of music better through her fearlessness.
- I don't like this album - Makes me feel anxious and uncomfortable - Who Is It is the only song that is fine to listen to
- very interest free form avant garde pop - lots of different noises used - feels like I’m being cursed by a witch at some points
It's B jork, not really my musical tastes but it was nice to try something new.
Not quite sure if the presence of a drum machine caused the seizure towards the end of the album. I do appreciate the risks taken by Björk, but it didn't work out this time.
Un poco gritona.
Too much like hard work
An adventurous and experimental album. It is a bit difficult to rate this one, because I didn't hate it but I didn't find it pleasant or enjoyable to listen to it either. I appreciate how much Björk showed the variety of different vocals on this album.. It's the second album by her on this challenge and I liked her debut album more than this one.
This music is what i allways put in the category "wierd for the sake of being wierd". It's the music someone tells you "you just don't get it" Which moves the focus from the music to the being the person "who gets it". Like movies have cult followings for being bad but somehow "deep". Not really for me
I'm not big into Björk, but this is one of my favorite projects from her and "Where Is The Line" has to be my favorite song in her whole discography. Unique little island of an album!
exquisitely crazy. Acoustic beatbox.
Great album, I'm a massive fan of her first four albums and it's good to hear the next one is good also. Accidently heard it on shuffle which probably killed it but rest assured I’llbe back
This is one of those genuinely polarising albums. At times, totally bonkers and daft, and at others quite beautiful.
Just recently had a bjork album and it wasn’t that bad. Now my second one and I can wonder is what kind of hallucinogenic trip she went on to make this chanting noise of an album. This was pretty terrible to listen to. No thanks 1.6/10
Música experimental de Björk. Ni fu ni fa.
Un poco gritona.
That was a goddamned brilliant study of vocal technique and virtuosity. Blown away, I am. I love Björk even more.
Couldn't finish this too experimental/shit
Bit of an awkward one, where I had to make three other people listen to it with me. We were getting ready to go out on the lash and Bjork's entirely acapella album was probably not it. She's very talented though, and obviously barking, to her credit.
Try as I might I'm just can't take to this austere, mostly a capella haunting. She's got the vocal goods and I've no doubt she is executing her particular vision, just not my taste.
Love this a lot Shows how you don’t just need to be skilled with instruments to make great music Favourite tracks: Pleasure is All Mine, Vokuro, Who is It, Submarine, Oceania
Very interesting and, in the right mood and circumstances, beautifully haunting and pretty engaging overall. Highly original and frequently quite strange.
Some incredible production but the odd song not for me
This album would absolutely send your head to the moon if you were stoned
Not for me. For how great Bjork can be, this feels like an atonal mishmash of sound.
Started out really hate-listening to this, but by the end I was glad it was on the list. Finally, something really different that I would never have heard otherwise! I haven't had an album like that in a while. An album focusing only on vocals (and electronics), it wasn't my favourite but I like that someone tried it. Hearing beat boxers and throat singers on the album were both highlights for me. The problem is I don't like Bjork's voice or style. She's a warbler and I am not. Still giving this 4 stars for the worthwhile experience. Where is the Line is where I draw the line though. That song annoyed me a lot haha.
On paper this album shouldn’t be as good as it is, but it comes together so well
I'm starting to think Björk is not the artist for me. The music, arrangement and use of her voice isn't something I particularly like. And it's a waste, I could imagine her doing great toned down folksy records. It's a very challenging listen, maybe I'd need to do more. But I'm not feeling too fond about it after one spin. I respect her for staying true to herself and not cashing in. It turns out to be a unique record, and fans probably love it to bits. But if you're new to Björk, this is probably not a good starting point. 5,5 out of 10
Probably a 2.6 for me but rating up. I’m not a bjork fan but credit where credit is due for her wackiness
Best thing about this challenge is being reminded to go back to albums I used to love.
Björk is life
Lindisfarne soundsystem represent. Dark techno combined with monastic chanting, complex rhythms and layer upon layer of sound shifting in and out - the music never settles for very long. Definitely more like the soundtrack to a video-art installation than radio music - but that's what she's going for. Between Icelandic lyrics on some songs and Bjork's vocal style there aren't a lot of hooks or memorable melodies to hang on to. Instead, this is about sonic textures, dissonances resolving and harmonies dissolving, poly-vocal stuttering, singing degrading into noise-making...like the voices in your head having it out on a windswept hebridean island. The album is all about the vocals, but there are some fantastic synth parts like the delicate, shimmering and fuzzy marimba-sound pulsing out the rhythm on Desired Consellation. Favorites: Where is the Line with You; Who is it... ; Desired Constellation; Triumph of a Heart
This was pretty cool. I did find the novelty of it mostly being voices to wear a bit thin by the end, but overall; this is a varied set of songs and is an incredibly creative album.
Interesting, a lot of groundwork was paved for the pop and even EDM scene through this album. All acapella and probably a launchpad o:
Otro impresionante álbum de la reina de la música alternativa. Melodías vocales poco frecuentes y producción esquelética que forman una experiencia interesante. Sin embargo, no es uno de los mejores trabajos de Björk, y si tuviéramos que elegir un álbum representativo de su carrera para la lista de los 1001 álbumes, sin duda sería “Debut”.
Interesting concept and the production is excellent, but it’s not really anything I want to come back to.
This a perfectly disorienting album. Björk wanted to make an album completely made of human voices and the result (while not completely made of human voices) is a powerful and primal statement. As always Björk's voice is so dynamic that she can move from a growl to a shout to a whisper seamlessly. Her control of tone and timbre is phenomenal making the listener hang on every syllable. Simply put, this is a stunning and arresting album. My only complaint is that it felt a bit tedious on the back half.
2.5 stars. Meh this was weird. At times it was fine, but overall it was too avant-garde for me. The acapella was impressive, while also not being an enjoyable listen.
Interesting. Not electronic. Not entirely vocal driven. Somewhere in the middle. 3/5
I want to love her because she's so weird and cool, but I don't find anything that makes me think I'd like to have this album in rotation. There was a brief moment, and definitely not with this album where I fell in line with what she was doing, but every track here just is not approachable to me now. I feel some pang of regret to rate it so low, but here we are.
Right before my parents would beat the shit out of my ass with a switch, they used to say ...."This is going to hurt me more than it's gonna hurt you..." I never knew what that meant until now. I'm super disappointed in this album. Though I really love Björk, this wasn't something that I could get into or would ever even consider listening to again. I love her voice and her quirkiness, but there's just too much echoes of white space here not enough quirk.
We serendipitously were gifted "Medúlla" by the generator on the very day we were driving around Iceland, starting in Reykjavik and heading along the southern coast to Vik and the black sand beaches at Reynisfjara. Iceland's most notable musical export served as a fitting soundtrack to our travels, and we went on to also listen to "Post" and some Of Monsters and Men. We passed on Sigur Rós to stay away from music too sleepy for the drive, but "Ágætis Byrjun" is on the list so we'll get there eventually. But "Medúlla" actually is no longer on the 1001 list. "Debut" remains, along with "Vespertine" and 2015's "Vulnicura." But "Post" has never been included. This is a mistake. It is Björk's best. "Medúlla" has its moments, but remains just a bit too inaccessible, a little too Björk-y for my taste. Even the best songs had at least a moment or two of extreme weirdness that took me out of it.
I dig Bjørk. And listening to her while driving through the Icelandic countryside added a whole new dimension to her music. While I think Post and Debut are stronger albums, there’s nothing like hearing her sing Ancestors while in the shadows of the mountains that inspired her song.
What a fantastic concept for an album, using all human produced music. This is definitely an album everyone needs to hear. The thing I enjoy the most is Björk’s total dismantling of traditional song meter. The music and lyrics are in odd time signatures, which are sometimes not even the same on a given song. While everyone should hear this album, it’s not quite what I’ve come to expect to need to hear it on a regular basis. Mad respect for this 3.5.
Iceland's finest exports in order of importance: 1. Aluminum 2. Björk 3. Fish Björk has always been an artist who, on the surface, is very easy to dismiss. Never the most accessible, her music requires the listener to be active. But if you do that, it's beyond rewarding. This album contains some of the most complex, insane, but rewarding vocals I've ever heard. If you have the luxury, please listen to this album with a good pair of headphones and block out everything else from your daily routine. I promise it'll be like a religious experience. Or maybe you’ll go insane (looking at you, Ancestors).
Björk’s beautiful, bewildering response to the age-old question: “What that mouth do?”
Oh my god please shut up
Such a good album
Has Bjork's signature floaty voice and production, but has a dark tone in most of the songs for a nice juxtaposition. Liked this better than the last album of hers we had to listen to, but still wasn't super into it. Feeling a strong 3/5 for this one
I can’t think of another album that has made me feel so humbly human. This serves as such a great testament to the breadth of beauty possible with the human voice. Björk has a great ear for the way that vocal dissonance can electrify every fiber of a listener’s being. Björk presents some very challenging sonic palettes, but the structure of the album does a remarkable job of holding the listener’s hand. An étude and a symphony. One of a kind.
a triumph. impressive in every way, really really really experimental but in a way i love. not particularly listenable but definitely entrancing
I never thought that a cappella-based trip-hop could be so irritating. I guess it deserves praise for the production and its apparent influence, but I won't pretend that her voice doesn't grind my ears.
The problem with Bjork’s music for me is that it gets old very fast, you listen to a few songs and then it feels like it’s the same with minor differences
Definitely interesting, but overall not something i would listen to again. An alright experience, but that's about it.
Todo muh lindo con bjork pero no terminan de entrarme los temas ni los discos. Perdon bjork 4/10
Interesting, but a bit weird to listen to normally (especially Ancestors).
One of the worst albums I have ever heard, I made it though 2 songs
What is left to say about Björk after the other albums of hers that I've already reviewed? She's a nutcase weirdo marching to the beat of her own drum and I respect that. But I don't like her style of music. Electronic experimental bullshit isn't my bag, baby. And now she's serving pure human vocal a cappella this time? I mean, c'mon. I'm so disinterested in this and it's just not working for me. Nothing about this album has changed my overall opinion of Björk. It's cool that she exists and does what she does, but it's not for me.
Стон под набор звуков…
Ethereal.
Wtf?
Every song is her just holding a note between words
Very weird album
first Bjork album I've ever listened to and wow I'm obsessed
5 / 10 que du chant, aucun instrument. beat box et chant de gorge not my cup of tea
Beguiling! I don’t honestly know what to say! It’s a Björk a cappella album, we didn’t know that we were gonna get that, I didn’t know that was gonna happen, and yet here we are, with a Björk a cappella album. And it’s 80% so, so, cool. And 20% disturbing and gross! Whyyyyyy the weird disgusting sounds on Ancestors, Björk, why? Why? I was really enjoying the album and then i was like, please stop Björk. Please stop. It turned from admiration into complete disgust. But then again, that’s just me. So much to be repulsed by with this album is also what gives Björk her power… she is mercurial. Creatively electric, full of emotion, impassioned and somehow never pretentious, more childlike. She is our resident lovable space alien. I think so much of this album was brilliant, and a decent amount was misguided, but that’s what you get, and you don’t get upset. 3/5. I was very moved at points, but truly some of those grunting noises were the biggest turn-off
wholeheartedly agree that it's significant enough to be on the list, also absolutely not my cup of tea. sorry bjork!
Huorailee enemmän kuin edellisessä... Täsmälleen sama taso.. Pitäis parempaa tehdä...
A strange acapella album by Björk, but then again - she has always been a little kooky. Didn't enjoy this as much as her previous album Vespertine, probably due to it's wildly experimental nature. The track "Who Is It" sounds like there's some beatboxing going on, then "Ancestors" sound like people in compromising positions! You never know what you're gonna get with Björk! Best: Where Is The Line Worst: Show Me Forgiveness
Bjork is one of a few artists that I consider a true musical genius. This is a bit of a challenging listen, and sometimes I get irritated with albums that I would consider "challenging", but in this case I really enjoyed it and have already re-listened once. I've always loved Bjork's voice, so having an album that is mostly her voice is really nice. But what makes it great is the blend of voices and sounds. It's layered and complex, and ultimately incredibly beautiful and unique. 4 stars.
It's this music
The idea of the album is cool and I like bjork’s first album quite a bit but I don’t think it works for a full project super well 3/5
Interesting but probably a bit too strange for me
1.5 Interesting, but not very enjoyable.
2nd June 2023 Listened on the journey back from Italy. Delayed flight so got back around 10.30 then chilled weekend doing house bits and axe throwing with Oscar. She’s one of a kind and her music comes from a unique, sensual place. 2.5 if I could.
This was an interesting album. No instruments (maybe a drum machine?) and just Bjork's voice. I can't say I enjoyed the album, but it is definitely one of a kind. I would perhaps listen again to it, but it's certainly original.
Weird. Nope
BL: know of Björk. The few things I’ve listened to I’ve not been a massive fan of. I’ll see how I find this. AL: I can appreciate what Björk was going for here. Having an album which is 99% acapella is definitely a good idea, and it creates some very interesting sounds and is unique but it just doesn’t stick with me. It just sounds a bit bad to me, I can appreciate Björk I’d always gonna be avant garde but yeah this pushed it too far for me. 2/5 just for the concept, 1/5 for my enjoyment FT: “mouths cradle” 2/5
Not for me, acapella and beat box i guess with some piano
Not my type but it was a really good experience to see the range of the human vocal chords
This is a weird one. Not bad necessarily, but not exactly as listenable as Vespertine or something lol. For now, solid 3.
Björk lost me after The Sugarcubes. Too much of this gives me flashbacks to growing up and going to Catholic church.
Another Björk album I thought I'd be more into
7/10
Meh
Unbelievably shit
what on earth is she going on about?!!?
This is my second Bjork album that I've gotten on this list, but I didn't care for this one too much. It was pleasant to listen to, but no particular track stood out to me. Bjork's vocals and arrangements are generally really great, but something on this album just didn't click for me.
Bit too visionary for me
This was interesting. Never listened to any Björk beyond the odd hit I might have come across on the radio, but I enjoyed the oddness of this and it's mix of music. I wouldn't say it's made me a huge fan, but it's clearly interesting and an obvious sort of thing for inclusion on this list - some of the 1 star reviews are laughable and sound like frat boy/Wayne's World style reactions. It's way better than that. Would I listen to it again? Maybe. But it's still at least 4 stars,
Ethereal, though slow and feels repetitive.
I've gotten into Björk because of this list and love the other two albums. This was an adventure. I totally understand why people hate this album. It's weird but very unique and it just works for me. I normally hate avant-garde yet Björk just makes it listenable to me. Not that I would put this on all that often but it's weird in a way that I like.
I get that she is Icelandic, and she always looks for creativity and innovation... but it is still so boring...