Debut by Björk

This is a remarkable album by any stretch of the imagination. Up to this point Björk was best known for the indie rock of the Sugar Cubes, but she effectively reinvented herself when she moved to London in the early 90s carrying a demo tape of songs that she had been working on since she was a teenager. She found a natural home in the club culture of the time and teamed up with producer Nelee Hooper from Massive Attack, finally finding someone who understood what she wanted to do.

This album combines dance floor beats with quirky musical sketches and improvised ideas set to string arrangements including a harp and tabla played by Talvin Singh. On top of this Björk’s unique vocals are probably the most divisive element, ranging from from ethereal pixie girl to unexpected yelps and growls over a huge range. Personally, I absolutely adore this style, your mileage may vary.

Lyrically it’s as strange and lovely as you could wish for, with a struggle to find love and acceptance in a confusing world being a constant theme. One of the tracks There’s More To Life Than This was recorded live in a nightclub toilet and perfectly captures the feeling of wanting to steal a small boat and sail away to a small island like some sort of Moomin.

Little-My-tastic!