Is Volumen a good place to start with Björk?

Yes, Volumen is recommended as a starting point for new Björk listeners. An eclectic fusion of electronic textures and orchestral arrangements, underscoring Björk's unique vocal prowess and visionary artistry. By the time 'Volumen' was released in 1999, Björk had transitioned from her early years with The Sugarcubes to a successful solo career. This collection followed her critically acclaimed album 'Homogenic' and showcased her evolution as an artist embracing experimental sounds and complex emotions.

Volumen works well if you're into kaleidoscopic emotional explorations, dynamic shifts in pacing and engaging narratives through sound.

How many songs are on Volumen?

Volumen has 14 tracks, running approximately 58 minutes.

Volumen

Björk · 1999

58 min · 14 tracks · alternative rock

An eclectic fusion of electronic textures and orchestral arrangements, underscoring Björk's unique vocal prowess and visionary artistry.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Human Behaviour Start here — This track marked Björk's bold emergence as a solo artist, blending intricate beats with a haunting narrative about human instincts. Its innovative music video further established her visual artistry.
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Army of Me — An anthem of resilience, this song combines aggressive percussion with defiant lyrics, showcasing Björk's ability to merge vulnerability and strength in her songwriting.
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Jóga — 'Jóga' stands out for its lush string arrangements and emotional depth, reflecting Björk's connection to her Icelandic roots while pushing the boundaries of pop music.

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 album compiles influential singles with a strong vocal presence and eclectic production, reflecting Björk's artistic evolution.

What we noticed

Each track showcases Björk's distinctive vocal style, often layered with complex harmonies and electronic production elements.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

kaleidoscopic emotional explorations
dynamic shifts in pacing
engaging narratives through sound
introspective moments of reflection

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward, simple tunes
avoid complex sonic landscapes

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Compiles early singles that established Björk's solo reputation and commercial success.
Themes: Icelandic landscapes· personal narrative· emotional depth
Career context: By the time 'Volumen' was released in 1999, Björk had transitioned from her early years with The Sugarcubes to a successful solo career. This collection followed her critically acclaimed album 'Homogenic' and showcased her evolution as an artist embracing experimental sounds and complex emotions.
Stylistic neighbors: FKA twigs· Arca· Kate Bush