It's in Our Hands cover

Released 24 years ago this November

It's in Our Hands

Björk · 2002

13 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

A haunting blend of electronic textures and orchestral arrangements that invites introspection and emotional depth.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    It’s in Our Hands — This track serves as the album's title piece, encapsulating its themes of agency and emotional vulnerability through its layered production and compelling vocals.
  • →
    Cocoon (Retangled by Ensemble) — Offering a reimagined take on one of her earlier works, this version highlights the lush orchestration and intimacy that characterize Björk's sound during this era.
  • →
    All Is Full of Love (live in Brussels) — This live rendition brings a raw, authentic energy to the beloved track, showcasing Björk's vocal prowess and her ability to connect with an audience in real-time.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

61 /100
Treeline
Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The single showcases intricate arrangements and strong vocal performances, but its brief length limits overall cohesion.

What we noticed

  • The title track features a gradual build-up of layers, starting with a simple piano line that evolves into a complex arrangement with strings and electronic elements.
  • The second track reinterprets 'Cocoon' with an ensemble, emphasizing orchestral textures over the original's electronic focus.
  • The live version of 'All Is Full of Love' showcases Björk's vocal delivery in a raw setting, contrasting with the polished studio versions.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — A notable single showcasing Björk's sound, but not a primary entry point or breakthrough.
Themes
intimate connection· ethereal landscapes· personal empowerment
Career context
Released on November 25, 2002, It's in Our Hands followed Björk's critically acclaimed album Vespertine, marking a continuation of her exploration into intricate soundscapes. At this point in her career, she was deepening her artistic identity as an avant-garde musician, further blurring the lines between pop and experimental music.
Stylistic neighbors
FKA twigs· Arca· Kate Bush

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • It’s in Our Hands

    The shift from personal reflection to a collective call to action encapsulates a profound sense of urgency.

    This transition illustrates the thematic depth of the song, emphasizing the interconnectedness of individual and communal responsibility.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 It’s in Our Hands 4:17
  • 2 Cocoon (Retangled by Ensemble) 5:04
  • 3 All Is Full of Love (live in Brussels) 3:51

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata