Björk, the Icelandic music sensation known for her eclectic style and profound artistry, has always intertwined humor with her dramatic musical expressions. Her renowned songs, such as "Isobel" and "Bachelorette," cleverly mock the archetype of a drama queen. This unique blend of comedy and gravitas has captivated audiences worldwide. Over the last five years, Björk's tour has showcased this duality, spanning two albums—Utopia and Fossora—and featuring meticulously crafted performances.
The tour, which culminated in a film capturing a performance in Lisbon, portrayed a vast forest-like set where themes of nature, "alchemical mutations," and healing played out. This performance was nothing short of a spectacle, with a massive choir and a seven-piece flute ensemble contributing to its grandiosity. Björk's approach to music and performance is known for its uniqueness, often incorporating bespoke instruments and immersive visuals.
Since embarking on her solo career with her first album, Debut, released in 1993 when she was 27, Björk has released ten studio albums. Each stands alone in its identity, reflecting her ability to reinvent herself continually. Notably, in 2011, with the release of Biophilia, she revolutionized her touring style by setting up musical residencies in cities instead of moving night after night. This change allowed her to create a deeper connection with each location.
Björk's career has been managed by Birkett for over 40 years. She describes their partnership as that of "old punks." Her roots trace back to Reykjavik, where she helped establish the Smekkleysa (Bad Taste) record label as a teenager. Her Icelandic heritage remains a strong influence in her life and work. She admires cultures like Argentina for their tango traditions and appreciates the melancholic strains of Portuguese fado music.
“Music is such a celebratory thing, especially when people are going through hard times. It’s great to be able to just think, fuck it,” Björk remarked.
Her environmental consciousness also reflects her commitment to sustainability; she opts to keep her eight-year-old laptop rather than replace it unnecessarily. This sense of responsibility extends to her music, where she embraces themes that resonate globally.
“I feel dizzy when I look at them, but look at the lyrics. I have shared my shadows and my darkness, for sure,” Björk acknowledges about her work.
Her admiration for comedy is evident in her enjoyment of shows like Trixie Mattel and Katya's unscripted TV performances. Despite being the subject of numerous comedy sketches on platforms like Saturday Night Live, Björk maintains a thick skin about parody.
“I mean, I’m not that bothered. I’m pretty thick-skinned. Katya, who’s a friend, she did me on Snatch Game [on RuPaul’s Drag Race], and I think it was hilarious,” she expressed.
Björk's humor is subtly woven into her music, often serving as a self-deprecating commentary on her persona.
“I think my humour is probably very hidden. With my friends, they totally would immediately see that most of my work has a humorous side and it’s also me taking the piss out of myself, for sure,” she admitted.
The concert film and accompanying art book from her tour are now returning after being paused due to COVID-19 and will soon be available on Apple Music. This project encapsulates Björk's vision and artistry during this period. Her performances continue to be a celebration of both life’s light and shadows.
“The few times when things actually do work out, they are very pleasantly happy. I think we have all the sides inside us, even though one is prominent, in how we execute light or navigate the world.”