Bjork is one of the strangest artists in the world; weird is an understatement in attempting to describe her. The Icelandic musician is no stranger to controversy, she wore a shocking swan dress at the 2001 Academy Awards. Her personality is bizarre, as is her music.
Having made eight records since 1977, there is no denying she is a wonderful musician; her talent is criminally underrated in North America.
Biophilia is Bjork’s eighth studio album, released by One Little Indian Records and distributed by Universal Music Group on Oct. 5, 2011. It’s an electronica album influenced by avant-garde music and alternative dance. It references various linking points between music, nature, and technology. It has received very positive reviews, with many critics stating that it was an ambitious yet rewarding project.
Biophilia Live is a concert documentary revolving around this album.
Biophilia Live is an exhilarating experience, perhaps the most entrancing concert I’ve ever seen. Bjork’s engrossing performance kept me on the edge of my seat. The unpredictability of the performer, as well as the surreal atmosphere, kept me in awe. Bjork knows how to push the envelope, while setting the standard for what a concert film should be.
It’s simply overwhelming to the senses.
Dancing around in London’s Alexandra Palace, she appears against pits of lava and celestial beings. She is dressed like something out of Bride of Frankenstein and yet is able to pull this extravagant event off coherently, consistently on key.
While Biophilia Live isn’t going to make fans out of her detractors, it certainly is going to win the hearts and minds of those who have already loved her. It’s absolutely breathtaking.
5/5
Biophilia is playing at Cinematheque on Oct. 24 and 25 with tickets available for under $10 each.
