Various Artists

Leaving no stone unturned, Icelandic chanteuse Björk Gudmundsdottir has lead a varied and extensive artistic career. She would probably scoff at the word career. Born in 1965 in Reykjavik, Iceland, and growing up in an artistic communal-style household, Björk’s exposure to the arts began practically at birth. She was enrolled at music school by the age of five, where she studied piano, flute and voice. The seeds of her now vast discography were planted at the age of 11 when she recorded her eponymous debut album. After playing in experimental, edgy punk-tinged bands (such as Tappi Tikarrass and Kurl), she formed The Sugarcubes with then-husband Thor Eldon. The group’s debut album, Life’s Too Good (1988) spawned the hit single “Birthday.” After several albums, the group disbanded in 1992. Her solo career began shortly thereafter, releasing Debut in ’93, Post in ’95, Homogenic in ’97 and Vespertine in 2001, among others. Bjork also starred in the modern day musical Dancer In The Dark in 2000. Her unique, cuddly/caustic vocals are like none other.

– Maurice S. Teilmann (November 2002)