Björk: Vespertine

Right off the opening track on Björk’s 2001 release, Vespertine, she takes us to her “Hidden Place” that is solace and sanctuary. The beat suggests somewhere out in space and yet fills with romance. “Cocoon” continues with love, “Who would have known / That a boy like him / Would have entered me lightly / Restoring my blisses?” The production is made of crackling sound from a fire pitch. On “Pagan Poetry,” the string intro works so well with the electronic white noise. Yet, the most fascinating part is when she nakedly repeats “I love him” eight times. All the way to the album closer, “Unison,” Vespertine offers a cohesive listening experience. Be patience with this album and you’ll find its quiet beauty. It’s such a romantic album without saturation.