New Bjork, new Bjork

Reviewed by Justin Hoeger

Inscrutable Icelandic singer Bjork has released an ethereal and feathery new album in “Vespertine,” her second album in two years, following last year?s “Dancer in the Dark” soundtrack.The vespertine are “things flourishing in the evening,” according to Bjork?s Web site www.bjork.com, and the word suits this album well.

Gentle, largely electronic musical compositions filled with harp, choir and string arrangements accompany Bjork?s lilting soprano to create lulling melodies, and music boxes accompany some tracks, adding to the lullaby feel even more.

The lyrics, too, tend toward the nocturnal and dreamlike, and one song, “Sun in my Mouth,” takes its words from an e. e. cummings poem. Spare, muted drum beats and bass lines accompany songs such as “It?s Not Up To You” and “Hidden Place,” which even at their loudest sound soft and muffled.

Though not for all listeners, Bjork?s unique musical and vocal styles offer an experience unlike any other in modern music.