VESPERTINE

Yes, well again this marked the trio of albums that places Bjork in a prog category. Expanding from Homogenic into a more strings, mood based singularity of sounds, Vespertine was adventurous to say the least. Not as emphatic musically as it's predecessor but certainly a catalyst for the exceptional follow up Medulla.

As another reviewer suggests this is almost an album of two qualitative halves. The first half being exceptional and borderline masterpiece, the second half loses direction at times and is less convincing, quite bemusing to this reviewer that the consistency of the album does not hold up so well. " Hidden Place" kicks off the album and it is mysterious, sensual and plain beautiful. An accompanying video will add wonderment to the experience. " Cocoon" and " Pagan Poetry" also mark highlights to the album and became firm fan favorites on selection of a future compilation release for Bjork.

The second half of the album is OK and the new trademark sound continues, it just seems to be missing that inviting " Hook" one gets to expect with Bjork material. " Sun In My Mouth" has Bjork streching the boundaries again as does the interesting " Harm Of Will". I like this album a lot and it is a worthy three and a half stars but it is not quite up there with Medulla or Homogenic. Both those albums broke new territory, this was the wafer in between.