Björk, “Atopos” | Track Review 🎵

Following a four-year hiatus, Björk returns with “Atopos,” the eccentrically brilliant promo single from her 10^th studio album, Fossora.

“Are these not just excuses to not connect? / Our differences are irrelevant.” Um, sure, if you say so 🎙 Björk.  The 🏆 Grammy-nominated – should be 🏆 Grammy-winning – Icelandic singer/songwriter never fails to compel.  That is the case on 🎵 “Atopos”, the promo single from her 10^th studio album, 💿 Fossora (September 30, 2022).  Of the lyrics, Björk commentates, ‘the lyrics to Atopos are what Roland Barthes describes so magnificently in his book, A Lover’s Discourse. It is about the binary spirit of human nature … left versus right, man versus woman, and so on but the theme of the song is to overcome differences and unite.’ Now that’s deep!  On “Atopos,” she’s assisted by 🎙 Kasimyn on this distinct, truly one-of-a-kind opener from Fossora.  Keep in mind folks, there’s only one Björk and on “Atopos,” she exemplifies that sentiment.

“Atopos” was written with Kasimyn, who provides those beats alongside Björk. The eventual groove is nothing short of infectious.  Prior to the groove commencing, however, listeners are blessed with an atmospheric introduction. Soon enough, those distinct, powerful vocals of Björk enter.  Safe to say, she remains a once-in-a-lifetime singer. The music is quirky – left-of-center quality – following that warm intro. The timbre is unique, due in part to the use of a clarinet choir (including multiple bass clarinets) – who would’ve expected that? Even as enigmatic and odd as “Atopos” (Greek for absurd, out of place, unusual) is, there are some gorgeous melodic moments.  Lyrically, as the excerpted lyrics suggest, as well as Björk’s commentary,  “Atopos” is intriguing as well: “If we don’t grow outwards towards love / We’ll implode inwards toward destruction.” My, my, my!

Final Thoughts 💭

As I’ve said so many times, Björk is a genius.  I’m still baffled as to how a Grammy has eluded her – it feels wrong! Regardless, once again, the Icelandic standout delivers with the must-hear 🎵 “Atopos”, which sounds like NOTHING else released in 2022.  After a four-year hiatus, it’s so good to hear Björk once again, in all of her eccentric glory!

🎙 Björk • 💿 Fossora • 🏷 One Little Independent • 🗓 9.30.22

[📷: Brent Faulkner, The Musical Hype, One Little Independent, OpenClipart-Vectors from Pixabay]