• Record Label: Nonesuch
  • Release Date: Oct 11, 2011
User Score
8.1

Universal acclaim- based on 311 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 26 out of 311
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  1. Nov 20, 2011
    10
    This is an album that will certainly musically challenge you. When I first heard it I thought "what the hell is that?", but after some listening I found the beauty hidden within it. This reminds me of Radiohead's "Kid A", which was so different from it's predecessors that I had a hard time liking it, but then again that is one of my favorite albums of all time. To sum up, don't judge thisThis is an album that will certainly musically challenge you. When I first heard it I thought "what the hell is that?", but after some listening I found the beauty hidden within it. This reminds me of Radiohead's "Kid A", which was so different from it's predecessors that I had a hard time liking it, but then again that is one of my favorite albums of all time. To sum up, don't judge this album when you first heard it, let it speak to you and when it does you will be amazed, no doubt about it. Expand
  2. Nov 21, 2011
    8
    One of her best albums. Cosmogony is like a big bang; Virus is so beautiful, one of the songs of my life; Crystalline is encouraging, but Hollow and Dark Matter are terrible.
  3. Nov 15, 2011
    8
    A strong album, still containing the rangy and sometimes rough, discordant sounds of Volta and the Drawing Restraint 9 soundtrack while managing to bring in some of the organic smoothness that made Medulla such a pleasure. In my opinion Bjork's sound is still a little too rough--the songs have been so opened up, and the melodies pushed so far back, that it occasionally comes across as sungA strong album, still containing the rangy and sometimes rough, discordant sounds of Volta and the Drawing Restraint 9 soundtrack while managing to bring in some of the organic smoothness that made Medulla such a pleasure. In my opinion Bjork's sound is still a little too rough--the songs have been so opened up, and the melodies pushed so far back, that it occasionally comes across as sung poetry. Which isn't the worst thing, for although her lyrics have never been her strongest point. Bjork has always had a masterful flair for delivery that makes most of her head-scratching, primal lyrics convincing. And all this blistering roughness-- from the somehow industrial and volcanic Mutual Core and Thunderbolt--makes the moments when she swings back towards melody, like the cooing vocals towards the end of Moon, like refreshing aloe vera on a skinned knee. Expand
  4. Nov 22, 2011
    10
    This album is not the better but this is album is amazing too. After Bjork only Radiohead with ok computer, but id like this album becouse is new e solid.
  5. Dec 1, 2011
    10
    This album is one of Bjork's best. Articulate, mesmerizing, as well as challenging; the Icelandic singer "gave it all". Obvious standouts include Virus and Mutual Core, but given time, Hollow and Dark Matter's charm will shine through. With more songs to be written into the project, we can expect more little gems to come. 10/10
  6. Dec 14, 2011
    10
    Bjork's venture into even more experimental styles has been her greatest, in my eyes. I'm not her biggest fan, mostly because I didn't particularly enjoy her music, except the ones that became very popular, of course. I don't remember how I came across Biophilia, but I was first introduced to Mutual Core, which remains my favorite. It's originally calm tone escalates into an electroBjork's venture into even more experimental styles has been her greatest, in my eyes. I'm not her biggest fan, mostly because I didn't particularly enjoy her music, except the ones that became very popular, of course. I don't remember how I came across Biophilia, but I was first introduced to Mutual Core, which remains my favorite. It's originally calm tone escalates into an electro crescendo which you could class as IDM, drum n' bass e.t.c although I prefer to coin gabba. Some of the other songs also follows a similar set-up. A more calm basis that changes throughout the song, such as Crystalline, which has a drum n' bass finale. The lyrical content of the songs may be considered quite strange. Virus talks about, well, Viruses and similar things. Mutual Core about tectonic plates. Cosmogony about celestial bodies. I adore her for this. Most musicians now a day follow lyrics of love or hardship, while she completely departs this.
    I think her experimental side has really done well here. The album is an eclectic mix of music that is presenting in an unusual way, adding to the intrigue. The lyrical contents also add to the albums curiosity, where complex ideas are deconstructed in song.
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  7. Mar 7, 2012
    10
    There are always great moments I go through when listening to Bjork's work; although I enjoy her music even more when I watch her videos, make me go through the perfect musical/artistic experience. Frankly I love ALL her albums and for me I think that she has been consistent, each album gives you a different feeling, Volta was amazing! Wanderlust and Dull Flame of Desire were mesmerizing!There are always great moments I go through when listening to Bjork's work; although I enjoy her music even more when I watch her videos, make me go through the perfect musical/artistic experience. Frankly I love ALL her albums and for me I think that she has been consistent, each album gives you a different feeling, Volta was amazing! Wanderlust and Dull Flame of Desire were mesmerizing! Biophilia is another wonderful project, I LOVE itâ Collapse
  8. Dec 24, 2012
    9
    I love this album. Biophilia, for me, is almost perfect. To experience it fully, you've got to listen to it as a whole. The highlights are Crystalline and Mutual Core, in my opinion.
    Björk is a stunning music icon who is still at the top of her game after decades in the Music industry.
  9. Oct 12, 2011
    10
    Uno de los mejores albums de Bjork en mi opinion , Para mi esta al nivel de Homogenic y vespertine que sin duda son uno de los mejores discos de su carrera
  10. Feb 2, 2013
    10
    A great album from a great artist that takes time to get in to, but once you do you will love it.The songs are experimental with fascinating instruments and of course Björk's wonderful voice.My favourite tracks are Crystalline and Sacrifice.I hope to see Björk one day and thank her for her original innovative unique music and voice.9.5/10.
  11. Oct 31, 2017
    7
    Björk volta mais eletrônica que no Volta (k k k). Agora ela está mais adequada a sonoridade da década de 2010, voltada para o eletrônico, mas sem deixar sua essência de lado.
  12. Oct 13, 2011
    10
    You never really know what to expect from a Björk album except to be challenged and almost forced to break out of your musical paradigms. Biophilia is no exception, leading a journey through the cosmos, the tectonic plates or even human DNA, this album has it all and is another welcome turn in her career. A new era where Björk shows herself as interesting,You never really know what to expect from a Björk album except to be challenged and almost forced to break out of your musical paradigms. Biophilia is no exception, leading a journey through the cosmos, the tectonic plates or even human DNA, this album has it all and is another welcome turn in her career. A new era where Björk shows herself as interesting, admirable and seductive as always. Expand
  13. Sep 20, 2012
    10
    A great return for one of the greatest artists of the last 20 years! The concept is good and the songs are well done (except "Solstice" and "Crystaline", which seem to be B-Sids of "Vespertine"). Gaga, Britney and all the others sh***y pop singers: learn from her, not from Madonna, who made only one good album ("Ray of Light") and can't even sing!
  14. Oct 11, 2011
    9
    I really enjoyed this CD. It is among her best work, I think. I was very disappointed with Volta. There are some stunning moments on Biophilia - Virus, Mutual Core, Hollow, Dark Matter. In fact, there is not one song that I dislike or would rather skip. It is a lovely straight through affair. The music is often minimalist but not lacking complexity. She sounds wonderful and in aI really enjoyed this CD. It is among her best work, I think. I was very disappointed with Volta. There are some stunning moments on Biophilia - Virus, Mutual Core, Hollow, Dark Matter. In fact, there is not one song that I dislike or would rather skip. It is a lovely straight through affair. The music is often minimalist but not lacking complexity. She sounds wonderful and in a few songs employs refreshingly, atypical straight-forward vocalization. Expand
  15. Oct 13, 2011
    10
    What a tortured musical landscape it is this year. People have been unduly harsh to any albums that take work, and this one is no exception. This is easily her best album since Medulla, and in some ways is on par with it. It's entirely original and exciting, which in and of itself should be enough. But more than that, it gives you an experience, and a pleasant, deep one at that. 9.5/10.
  16. Oct 14, 2011
    9
    I think that, in every single CD, Björk changes her style. II think Biophilia is not her best work, but at least, is better than Volta. I also enjoy the "plot" of the songs; Dark Matter, it seem that Bjork wants you to think of all that dark unexplored depths of space; Cosmogony, Björk wants you to think about the origin of the Universe... every single song has aI think that, in every single CD, Björk changes her style. II think Biophilia is not her best work, but at least, is better than Volta. I also enjoy the "plot" of the songs; Dark Matter, it seem that Bjork wants you to think of all that dark unexplored depths of space; Cosmogony, Björk wants you to think about the origin of the Universe... every single song has a "plot". And the music style is different than in other record , she has never done something like Hollow or Mutual Core... Expand
  17. Oct 18, 2011
    10
    an album for those who have not remained stuck years ago. A record that requires concentration and has interesting points about the relationship between man, nature, biology and human emotions
  18. Jan 16, 2012
    10
    This is definitively one of the best albums of 2.011, the concept of what Björk did on this album is just a proof of musicians still can be creative and get mature while the process. There is no other artist that stay faithful to its artistic instincts like Björk does. Great album, easily enjoyable.
  19. Oct 15, 2011
    10
    A great record with that deals with unusual subjects and uses innovative instruments. It takes time until you get used to it, but once you discover its beauty, you won't be able to get it out of your head. The songs are either very quiet and laid-back or really loud and aggressive but there are tracks that combine both ('Mutual Core', 'Sacrifice'). Highlights include 'Crystalline',A great record with that deals with unusual subjects and uses innovative instruments. It takes time until you get used to it, but once you discover its beauty, you won't be able to get it out of your head. The songs are either very quiet and laid-back or really loud and aggressive but there are tracks that combine both ('Mutual Core', 'Sacrifice'). Highlights include 'Crystalline', 'Cosmogony', 'Dark Matter', 'Virus' and 'Sacrifice'. A good album overall. Expand
  20. Oct 11, 2011
    9
    It might be too early to make an informed judgement, but I'm thoroughly enjoying this record so far. Both more minimal and more intricate than Volta, it's more of a combination of the best bits of Homogenic and Vespertine - no bad thing, as far as I'm concerned. Virus is particularly beautiful. Best of all, Bjork doesn't allow her voice to be consumed by the instrumentation. Her vocals areIt might be too early to make an informed judgement, but I'm thoroughly enjoying this record so far. Both more minimal and more intricate than Volta, it's more of a combination of the best bits of Homogenic and Vespertine - no bad thing, as far as I'm concerned. Virus is particularly beautiful. Best of all, Bjork doesn't allow her voice to be consumed by the instrumentation. Her vocals are still the main instrument, and they sound better than ever. The mutations that she goes through on Mutual Core are stunning. There is nobody quite like her in the music world, for which we should give thanks. Expand
  21. Oct 19, 2011
    10
    Transmutating proteins. Internal nebula. The Atlantic Ridge drifting. The new, eighth studio album by Björk sounds like an ultimate science geek feast. Indeed it is as it comes with a series of apps to be played on your iPad that bring together knowledge and fun. Musically, Biophilia is a sister of Björkâ
  22. Oct 17, 2011
    10
    While at first this album may seem to be disconnected; listen closer...the music becomes both familiar and unique. Bjork has done a great job of finding uncommon moments in a song to connect on a broader scale. On a personal level i was worried it would be just as disjointed sat volta...however it seems to find its own grounding. While not as beautiful as Vespertine or as mysterious asWhile at first this album may seem to be disconnected; listen closer...the music becomes both familiar and unique. Bjork has done a great job of finding uncommon moments in a song to connect on a broader scale. On a personal level i was worried it would be just as disjointed sat volta...however it seems to find its own grounding. While not as beautiful as Vespertine or as mysterious as Medulla; it stands alone in a body of work with a formidable future. Expand
  23. Oct 22, 2011
    10
    The opening "Moon" enchants with minimalistic, hypnotic composition and passionate vocal. Thunderbolt brings dark mood and exciting combination of choir, organ and electric discharges. Cosmogony with Bjork pure voice and spacy musical background is another highlight. Virus charms with beautiful gameleste. Mutual Core surprises with energetic techno parts. Solstice calms down and leads theThe opening "Moon" enchants with minimalistic, hypnotic composition and passionate vocal. Thunderbolt brings dark mood and exciting combination of choir, organ and electric discharges. Cosmogony with Bjork pure voice and spacy musical background is another highlight. Virus charms with beautiful gameleste. Mutual Core surprises with energetic techno parts. Solstice calms down and leads the album to the end. It must be written Biophilia is demanding record, not for an average listener. It's really far step from joyful Debut. With its dark mood and ambitious concept Biophilia is mostly similar to equally beautiful Medulla. One of her best albums. Expand
  24. Oct 24, 2011
    10
    If "Volta" is Bjork's failed experiment, then surely "Biophilia" is her warm reassurance that she's still the master of modern music. It's everything good art should be: innovative, endlessly creative, probing, daring, and completely in the control of the artist (no matter how out-of-control it sometimes may seem). I am thrilled and pleased to report to anyone who will heed that this isIf "Volta" is Bjork's failed experiment, then surely "Biophilia" is her warm reassurance that she's still the master of modern music. It's everything good art should be: innovative, endlessly creative, probing, daring, and completely in the control of the artist (no matter how out-of-control it sometimes may seem). I am thrilled and pleased to report to anyone who will heed that this is the single greatest record I've ever heard. It's masterful, gorgeous, and the logical progression of fire from "Volta's" ashes. A flat-out masterpiece. Expand
  25. Oct 11, 2011
    6
    I feel like Biophilia is going to be somewhat of a marmite album, like Volta and Medulla before it. I can see why people could like it, or even love it, but for me it doesn't capture the essence of what I personally enjoy about Bjork's music. Perhaps the cosmological concept of the album doesn't lend itself well to Bjork's usual trademark intimacy, as I feel like the songs come across asI feel like Biophilia is going to be somewhat of a marmite album, like Volta and Medulla before it. I can see why people could like it, or even love it, but for me it doesn't capture the essence of what I personally enjoy about Bjork's music. Perhaps the cosmological concept of the album doesn't lend itself well to Bjork's usual trademark intimacy, as I feel like the songs come across as being sterile and unmoving -- with the enthralling 'Virus' being one of the few exceptions to that.

    That's not to say that I don't think it's a well crafted album. In fact I feel like I have a decent grasp of what Bjork was trying to accomplish conceptually, and the mood is very unique. Personally? It does very little for me, and each listen leaves me wanting something more focused and substantial than what Biophilia offers.
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  26. Oct 12, 2011
    5
    This is not one of Bjork's better efforts. Vespertine,Homogenic,even Medulla are
    far superior.I tried to like it and there are some songs that are interesting but
    I just cannot get into it.

    I really like Bjork alot but it seems her best work is sadly behind her.
  27. Oct 20, 2011
    10
    This CD feels like Bjork reached a perfect balance between her more intimate musical discovery that was "Vespertine" and the more robust sonic experiments that were "Medulla" and "Volta". It's unlike anything else and simultaneously very much like her own universe. Beautiful and rewarding upon multiple listens.
  28. Oct 12, 2011
    5
    OMG, another hardboiled album from Bjork. What has she got against playful tunes and proper rhythms? Does she take a strange pleasure in making records that sound like an orchestra of alliens playing Chopin on the laser pendulum harps? I just don't get this.
  29. Oct 12, 2011
    6
    Well, after volta almost anything would be welcomed as a good album, but biophilia is just mediocre, a cd that doesnt leave anything lingering with the listener after the end of the last song.
  30. Oct 12, 2011
    10
    At the first word of the ambitious goals of the Biophilia project, I wasn't expecting much more than a batch of non-songs stretched to fit an uneasy concept, particularly in light of the focus placed on the app element of the project. Fortunately it's much, much more than that - it seems to take the best aspects of Homogenic and Vespertine, her two strongest albums. Maybe not 'album of theAt the first word of the ambitious goals of the Biophilia project, I wasn't expecting much more than a batch of non-songs stretched to fit an uneasy concept, particularly in light of the focus placed on the app element of the project. Fortunately it's much, much more than that - it seems to take the best aspects of Homogenic and Vespertine, her two strongest albums. Maybe not 'album of the year' (Tom Waits' album has yet to come out) but definitely one of Björk's most accomplished works. Expand
  31. Oct 24, 2011
    8
    Bjork's vocals are as great as ever, but some songs felt scattered and incomplete.
    Virus, Hollow and Crystalline are some of the shining examples of Bjork's talents.
  32. Oct 11, 2011
    5
    It took Bjork over four years to finish this, but frankly I have no idea what was she doing all that time. "Biophilia" is better than the 2007 disaster called "Volta", but the album feels strangely empty and unpolished. There are some great ideas here and moments of beauty, yet the CD as a whole is not as engaging as her best stuff - Homogenic, Vespertine and Medulla. And I really have aIt took Bjork over four years to finish this, but frankly I have no idea what was she doing all that time. "Biophilia" is better than the 2007 disaster called "Volta", but the album feels strangely empty and unpolished. There are some great ideas here and moments of beauty, yet the CD as a whole is not as engaging as her best stuff - Homogenic, Vespertine and Medulla. And I really have a feeling that Bjork cares more about being weird and avant garde than making good music. Expand
  33. Oct 12, 2011
    4
    One of the weakest of Bjork career, "Biophilia" is very ambitious, yet musically it sounds flat and boring. Her vocals are nothing special as well, she screams in stead of singing. This is not the Bjork I was waiting for all those years.
  34. Oct 11, 2011
    10
    If this isn't her best album, it is damn close. Undoubtedly, another classic that will be remembered. The real innovation here is the extremely detailed compositions - especially in terms of how she musically paints a picture of what she is saying in each song. She creates so many layers of meaning, and says so much about the human condition, while delivering gorgeous music. On anIf this isn't her best album, it is damn close. Undoubtedly, another classic that will be remembered. The real innovation here is the extremely detailed compositions - especially in terms of how she musically paints a picture of what she is saying in each song. She creates so many layers of meaning, and says so much about the human condition, while delivering gorgeous music. On an academic level, this album can (and probably will be) written about. A trained musical theorist would have much to analyze and discover. This album really blurs the line between classical music and popular music, and because of that, pushes the state of popular music forward into new realms. Those who have less of an academic understanding of music may not enjoy this album as much as others, but this suggests that the average listener should inform themselves more about music. Expand
  35. Oct 11, 2011
    10
    One of Bjork's best records, and my favorite since Vespertine. It in no way approaches the accessibility of Homogenic, actually it surpasses both in complexity and depth all of her previous work. The music theory work behind the album's structure is beyond innovative. Her sometimes-gabber, sometimes-early-dubstep styled IDM breakdowns spaced between verses of her poetic cooing add aOne of Bjork's best records, and my favorite since Vespertine. It in no way approaches the accessibility of Homogenic, actually it surpasses both in complexity and depth all of her previous work. The music theory work behind the album's structure is beyond innovative. Her sometimes-gabber, sometimes-early-dubstep styled IDM breakdowns spaced between verses of her poetic cooing add a significant element in complementing the structure... The chaotic instrumentals throughout the album are where it shines, truly. Absolutely ambitious and abstract. In my top five picks for the year's best, so far. Expand
  36. Oct 11, 2011
    10
    Biophilia is unlike anything released this year. It's a brilliant conceptual art piece that is extremely brave in a music scene that obsesses over quick hooks. She truly pushes herself this time and experiments with time signatures tat are strange and foreign. At point she seems to sing against the music and it's less melodic but the songs contained really let you explore each layer. ItBiophilia is unlike anything released this year. It's a brilliant conceptual art piece that is extremely brave in a music scene that obsesses over quick hooks. She truly pushes herself this time and experiments with time signatures tat are strange and foreign. At point she seems to sing against the music and it's less melodic but the songs contained really let you explore each layer. It combines elements from all her past works while using a concept leagues ahead of the things shes done before. She's truly captured natures wonders Expand
  37. Oct 13, 2011
    5
    This Bjork I dont like. It better to Volta but not good much. The songs dont sound nice. I want Bjork to sound nice. Please Bjork, make a good record again!
  38. Nov 21, 2011
    10
    Sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba, sumba.
  39. Oct 11, 2011
    3
    Another stillborn album from Bjork, full of tuneless songs and gibberish lyrics that are hard to make out. It's a tad better than Volta, but she probably never will record anything really good.
  40. Dec 3, 2013
    0
    The f*ck she's think she is doing? I don't know why critics love her so much... she stands for the Japanese culture like she's Japanese or something... I really don't know why of this. Look to my album "Bounty", have so many different meanings but its attend culture as universal, not the exaltation of a single one. You better stop being hypocritical, Björk, just a tip...
  41. Mar 6, 2013
    0
    For some reason, the more Björk tries for avant garde cred, the more pedestrian her songwriting gets. Tuneless nothings and even cheesy ballads are just frosted with twinkly chimes and crackling sounds and multi-tracked vocals. Also features some of the most embarrassing lyrics of her career.
  42. Nov 26, 2011
    1
    How is this worse than "Volta"? "Volta" had about four semi-solid tunes, even if the rest was junk. Maybe everyone had overly high expectations for it because it directly succeeded the golden age of "Vespertine" and "Medulla"?

    Anyways, this "Biophilia," it's just a desert, there's nothing here. "Virus" would have been an acceptable B-side ten years ago, and there are fun percussion breaks
    How is this worse than "Volta"? "Volta" had about four semi-solid tunes, even if the rest was junk. Maybe everyone had overly high expectations for it because it directly succeeded the golden age of "Vespertine" and "Medulla"?

    Anyways, this "Biophilia," it's just a desert, there's nothing here. "Virus" would have been an acceptable B-side ten years ago, and there are fun percussion breaks in the latter half of "Sacrifice," but neither is sufficient to justify spending hard-earned scrilla on this album. On the whole, it reminds me of the meandering parts of Medulla that nobody likes. You know what I'm talking about, not "Submarine," but rather that tonal-less filler which should have been replaced with "Komid."

    Just don't buy this album. I dunno, go buy another copy of "Vespertine" or something if you want to support Bjork. Save yourself while you can!
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  43. Dec 18, 2012
    2
    I heard much people talking about this Bjork's album and I finally decided to hear it. I was able to realise that this newest Bjork's CD is so bad. It seems that the songs don't have any rhythm at all and all sounds the same sh**. I don't really know how this album could be nominated for Grammys this year. I don't think that this album is the worst that I ever heard but it's definitely oneI heard much people talking about this Bjork's album and I finally decided to hear it. I was able to realise that this newest Bjork's CD is so bad. It seems that the songs don't have any rhythm at all and all sounds the same sh**. I don't really know how this album could be nominated for Grammys this year. I don't think that this album is the worst that I ever heard but it's definitely one of the most terrible albums that I ever had the misfortune to hear. Expand
  44. Nov 7, 2011
    0
    Bjork has always been overrated from her first album up until this current release. I don't understand the hype. Her music is boring and weird for weirdness sake. Only hipsters and critics like her. Avoid this garbage.
  45. Oct 28, 2011
    4
    It is good to know when to leave the stage while you're still at the top of your fame and the music you make is awesome. Bjork should have quit her career after Medulla. After that album every next record is worse than the previous one. Biophilia is a giant on clay feet - such a spectacular PR, such a bad album. These songs are among the most annoying songs she ever recorded. The lyricsIt is good to know when to leave the stage while you're still at the top of your fame and the music you make is awesome. Bjork should have quit her career after Medulla. After that album every next record is worse than the previous one. Biophilia is a giant on clay feet - such a spectacular PR, such a bad album. These songs are among the most annoying songs she ever recorded. The lyrics are pretentious and the way she sings feels laboured and tired. Even the album cover feels superficial. Bjork, what's wrong with You, girl? Expand
  46. Nov 9, 2011
    7
    Es mentira que volverá a sacar algo como Debut (1993) o Post (1995), hay que acostumbrarse (y aplaudir) al sonido que ha trabajado en estos últimos años, cada vez más profundo y experimental. Algunos dicen que se le va la mano con tanto experimento, podría ser cierto, pero a ella pocas cosas le salen mal.
  47. Dec 2, 2017
    2
    when you wanna do more than you can actually bear....you never succeed. The result is confusion, over-the-top themes and lack of musical sanity, really.
  48. Feb 4, 2022
    10
    De primeira eu não consegui absorver-lo e fiquei me perguntando o que diabos é isso mas escutando mais uma vez já é facil de absorve-lo
  49. Dec 30, 2011
    8
    So far I think her past works, had so much heart, soul and emotion, but Biophilia is like Björk treating love as something rational and perfectly explained by nature. It's only natural that she, as a composer, has evolved from more earthly things, like love and passion, and is now interested in the bigger picture, the nature and the universe.
  50. Sep 7, 2016
    8
    Been a lifelong fan of Bjork since her stunning "Debut" album came out in 1993. However, somewhere between Vespertine (my favorite Bjork album) and Volta, she lost me. I just couldn't get behind Medulla and Volta with all that brass irritated the **** out of me.

    Wasn't really sure what to make of Biophilia. First few listens where challenging to say the least (since Bjork has moved away
    Been a lifelong fan of Bjork since her stunning "Debut" album came out in 1993. However, somewhere between Vespertine (my favorite Bjork album) and Volta, she lost me. I just couldn't get behind Medulla and Volta with all that brass irritated the **** out of me.

    Wasn't really sure what to make of Biophilia. First few listens where challenging to say the least (since Bjork has moved away from songs that are tuneful) , like every good Bjork album its beauty only becomes apparent after a few listens. Listened as a cohesive whole there are some stunning arrangements on Biophilia.

    While nowhere near as fantastic as the Bjork of Vespertine, Homogenic, Post and Debut - Biophilia is a solid and marked improvement over of Medulla and Volta.
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  51. Nov 12, 2013
    9
    Bjork's Biophilia feels like an experiment. With minimalism and metaphor abound, Bjork crafts an intricate collection of tracks that challenge traditional musical concepts, while still feeling organic. Not as intimate as Vespertine, or as beautifully idealistic as Medulla, but Biophilia is its own. Like nature itself, Biophilia does what it feels to be right. Songs seem to flow randomlyBjork's Biophilia feels like an experiment. With minimalism and metaphor abound, Bjork crafts an intricate collection of tracks that challenge traditional musical concepts, while still feeling organic. Not as intimate as Vespertine, or as beautifully idealistic as Medulla, but Biophilia is its own. Like nature itself, Biophilia does what it feels to be right. Songs seem to flow randomly and freely, like water rushing to fill in gaps in the rocks. Bjork's vocals are side by side the instrumentals in this Album, meshing the human element with non-human.

    It's not traditional, and sometimes it can be difficult to listen easily to, but there's no denying Bjork has crafted something truly unique. Biophilia feels natural, as if it were crafted and formed through the natural geological processes that shaped the earth. Like nature itself, Biophilia is random, intricate, and beautiful.
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  52. Nov 13, 2011
    8
    As not as good as 'Volta', Bjork show us again how creative her mind can be! Part recorded on a iPad, the tracks can be more utilized with the special apps in the AppStore, but still just listening to it, it works. 'Crystalline', 'Solstice' and 'Moon' are the best records, and actually, this could be a featuring album with LCD Soundsystem.
  53. Dec 17, 2012
    9
    Whilst certainly better than the disaster of Volta, Biophilia is just too sparse and without a soaring voice to glide through the strange instruments sonically embellished by an artist who has conceived the project first and the actual melody as an afterthought. Disappointing to say the least.

    UPDATE After a year since its release I have began to fully appreciate what Bjork was
    Whilst certainly better than the disaster of Volta, Biophilia is just too sparse and without a soaring voice to glide through the strange instruments sonically embellished by an artist who has conceived the project first and the actual melody as an afterthought. Disappointing to say the least.

    UPDATE After a year since its release I have began to fully appreciate what Bjork was attempting here, and whilst I still contend that the middle group of tracks bog this album down the book ends of this project are amongst Bjorks best work post-Vespertine.
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  54. Mar 17, 2012
    8
    Björk proves that ambition and effort, rather than competition and recognition, will find way to its destination, especially on her most recent catalogue of ten science-concept tracks. If you're deep into science, you will appreciate this masterpiece. If you can't get into complex arrangements or orchestrations, then this isn't for you. Biophilia isn't an easy listen; in factBjörk proves that ambition and effort, rather than competition and recognition, will find way to its destination, especially on her most recent catalogue of ten science-concept tracks. If you're deep into science, you will appreciate this masterpiece. If you can't get into complex arrangements or orchestrations, then this isn't for you. Biophilia isn't an easy listen; in fact it's quite challenging so to fully get it, you have to listen several times. In my personal opinion, it's Björk's worst and slightly dull completion (so I rate between an 8.0-8.5) only because I can't relate or somehow connect to science much but it's an interesting topic that requires patience and critical thinking. Maybe, it will grow on me more sooner or later. However, I find Biophilia to be one of Björk's strongest, respected, and highly innovative works but also Medúlla and Homogenic too. Almost no other artist can reach this level unlike how Björk and others do. Expand
  55. May 12, 2013
    10
    Hypnotic and wonderful. All the effort shows how Bjork is growing and trying to make different things. I love how she compared the "true biophilia" with casual things.
  56. Nov 15, 2013
    8
    In all its simplicity, Biophilia is Bjork's most musically challenging album to date. Expect the "weirdness" that listeners unfamiliar with the Icelandic singer-songstress have accused her musical endeavors of being since her departure from the Sugarcubes and her 1993 debut entry, well, Debut. But for any listener that's accompanied the former acclaimed "pixie", it's one of her lessIn all its simplicity, Biophilia is Bjork's most musically challenging album to date. Expect the "weirdness" that listeners unfamiliar with the Icelandic singer-songstress have accused her musical endeavors of being since her departure from the Sugarcubes and her 1993 debut entry, well, Debut. But for any listener that's accompanied the former acclaimed "pixie", it's one of her less diverse entries to date, which still remains afar from a complaint. Although its accompanying app was a landmark in technical innovation, according to Bjork, it was also partially recorded via an iPad, which itself seems innovative in some sense. The subject matter is science, and that's no metaphor; Biophilia will no doubt be used by college teachers eager to use a "hipper" technique in educating uninterested students. It's half-in-half an acoustic record accompanied by Bjork's usual favor of instruments unfamiliar to Westerner's ears and a whole-hearted electronica influenced "acid trip", as some would call it. Electronically, the genres aren't all too unfamiliar: "Crystalline" narrates Bjork's fascination by the crystallization in minerals and rocks using breakbeats before entering an uproar of drum-and-bass to emphasize the finale while "Mutual Core" uses the contemporary trend of dubstep in its breakdowns to accompany Bjork's metaphorical use of tectonic plates to represent the compatibility of human beings. But despite not musically alienating us like she did with her 2004 acapella masterpiece Medula, it's certainly not gonna score her any charting singles anytime soon. But that's what's so fascinating about Bjork is her departure from the mainstream without seeming so insincere. Biophilia has art in tact and it continues to spotlight Bjork's unattainable vocals that have graced for more than twenty years. And as she continues to reinvent herself without "actually" reinventing herself at all, we'll all continue to be amazed, whether we go along with the flow or not. Expand
  57. Sep 24, 2015
    8
    Pushing 50, Bjork still shows the striking confidence she had in the 90s and early 00s with the likes of Homogenic and Vespertine. Sure, Biophilia is a must-have for fans of Bjork, but for newcomers, this album would be more of an acquired taste instead.
  58. Oct 29, 2013
    10
    An absolute grower. At first Björk seems a little bit sparse here, but the pounding electronic instruments and the incredible choral arrangements evoke the forces of nature with brutal strength. Well-balanced between quieter, moving tracks (Moon, Cosmogony, Virus and Solstice), darker songs (Thunderbolt, Dark Matter, Hollow, Sacrifice, Mutual Core) and the bright, direct Björk we knowAn absolute grower. At first Björk seems a little bit sparse here, but the pounding electronic instruments and the incredible choral arrangements evoke the forces of nature with brutal strength. Well-balanced between quieter, moving tracks (Moon, Cosmogony, Virus and Solstice), darker songs (Thunderbolt, Dark Matter, Hollow, Sacrifice, Mutual Core) and the bright, direct Björk we know (Crystalline and bonus-track Náttúra). Björks lyrics have never been more ambitious and, once you listen to them multiple times, never have hit home harder. Here's an all-new galaxy of stupendous creativity and unbelievable power. Expand
  59. Jun 30, 2017
    8
    Another Bjork album that is a grower; it took me several listens of Biophillia before I actually fell in love. I enjoy that each song is a different key on the tuning fork scale, however without doing research this was not extremely evident. Download: Mutual Core, Virus, Crystalline.
  60. Mar 11, 2015
    10
    By far Björk's most challenging and complex album, it exists and develops on its own universe, and feels as alien and complicated as fresh and beautifully innovative. One of the best pieces of avant-garde in a long long time.
  61. Feb 22, 2014
    8
    as well as delivering a collection of deeply scientific lyrics, Bjork's Biophilia also has a deeply scientific sound about it. And the thing that makes this album such a minor treasure, is how, putting aside some of those more boring parts to the start of the album, Biophilia manages to place itself as a rather touching album.
  62. Dec 5, 2014
    7
    It is fascinating and pure magical. Bjork's Biophilia is a different take on contemporary music. Therefore, it might not appeal to everyone subsequently there will trolls and haters.
  63. Jan 22, 2015
    10
    Biophilia is the best album of Björk for me, can spend 50 years and this album will still sound futuristic and avant-garde, I love the whole concept of this album, it's beautiful from beginning to end.
  64. Jan 28, 2015
    9
    It's great to hear her accent again. Her voice sound incredibly delicious to hear she's at her best vocal moment. This is a pretencious project who interact with the iPads and some new models to Bjork. It's her best minimalist work to date and the trinity can't get out of my head -Mutual Core, Crystalline and Cosmogony- other songs such as Hollow and Virus can relate to real biologyIt's great to hear her accent again. Her voice sound incredibly delicious to hear she's at her best vocal moment. This is a pretencious project who interact with the iPads and some new models to Bjork. It's her best minimalist work to date and the trinity can't get out of my head -Mutual Core, Crystalline and Cosmogony- other songs such as Hollow and Virus can relate to real biology conecting with ourselves. This record it's not an easy-listening but once you discover it's magic it will take you to other alternative spaces with new sounds as she create new instruments, some kind of 'Internal Nebula' I really enjoyed her live performances, it seems like a collection of hypnotic ballads with some rare beats. She's at the time of her live and artistic career than she can do literally whatever she wants even making such hard songs like Dark Matter and talking about little things that usually we don't realize, we have it inside. Expand
  65. Mar 2, 2015
    6
    I don't think I've ever been so massively disappointed by an album the way I was with this one and I am probably Bjork's #1 fan. Someone once told me that it'd grow on me but it hasn't to the extent that I actually like it. Crystalline, Cosmogony, Virus, Mutual Core and Solstice are the only likeable tracks imo, I just absolutely cannot fathom how this album has 10/10 reviews. Virus isI don't think I've ever been so massively disappointed by an album the way I was with this one and I am probably Bjork's #1 fan. Someone once told me that it'd grow on me but it hasn't to the extent that I actually like it. Crystalline, Cosmogony, Virus, Mutual Core and Solstice are the only likeable tracks imo, I just absolutely cannot fathom how this album has 10/10 reviews. Virus is probably the best song on the album. I just get such a hollow feeling from listening to this material as a whole. Expand
  66. May 31, 2015
    10
    This album, like everything that comes out of Bjork, is wonderful, very innovative, is one of the best experimental albums I've heard, original, anyone singer who will try to copy it will go wrong because what Bjork created with this albumIt is something that only someone with the ability of it will get into something good
  67. Jun 5, 2015
    10
    Simplicity hides very carefully behind tremendous arrangements and song structures; Biophilia (like its older sibling Medúlla) goes way further than mere music: it's an unforgettable, challenging and life-changing experience. Any other album should feel embarrassed if compared to it.

    9.7/10
  68. Sep 10, 2015
    10
    It's an amazing album, and the way Björk wanted the nature mix with technology results amazing.
    Metaphores can result hard to understand -that's what happened with the critics- but when you do it, the result is brilliant.
  69. Oct 18, 2015
    10
    After a few listens I realized this was my favorite album by Björk. Still is. It was hard to get into it at first, but once I understood the album it became a delight to listen to. Favorite song is Thunderbolt. I understand why a lot of people have a hard time enjoying it, but for me it's not a problem at all.
  70. Oct 1, 2016
    10
    This Album Is Perfect, And Is Great For Educational Purpose Awesome, Björk Is Just Like A Trip Into Nature, Perfect And Gameleste Hits Perfectly On Virus I Love It
  71. Jul 24, 2017
    9
    Biophilia is the nocturnal album of Björk. The atmosphere is intimate, woody, sometimes windy and minimalist. Based on nature volumes, songs can be threatening or peace-full. The productions are smart, efficient and light. A perfect mixture of delicate warmth and comforting cold.
  72. May 10, 2018
    9
    Bjork manages to straddle contemporary styles of dubstep with high art and space. More an art piece than an album, but it's still really good.
  73. Apr 27, 2018
    10
    Biophilia is the most intellectual, innovative and tuneful album that i've heard. Björk has inserted some instruments that no one has heard before in a musical album like a gameleste (a mix of a gamelan and a celesta), a group of pendulums or a Tesla coil, and that carry a lot of work and mental effort. Also we can mention the atypical style of the music sheets, the change of measure andBiophilia is the most intellectual, innovative and tuneful album that i've heard. Björk has inserted some instruments that no one has heard before in a musical album like a gameleste (a mix of a gamelan and a celesta), a group of pendulums or a Tesla coil, and that carry a lot of work and mental effort. Also we can mention the atypical style of the music sheets, the change of measure and complexity of the notes. Björk has mixed the nature with the tecnology and the universe and it's almost magical how she use metaphors for explain natural laws or universe theories, and in the same time, the lyrics have a meaning for a moment in real life. "Solstice" can be the path of life, "Virus" the love, "Moon" the learning of our regrets, but out of that meaning it's just the explaining of science norms.
    In summary, Biophilia is a very full album who drive you into an outstanding experience about education and reflexion along all the listening. This album may change your life.
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  74. Jun 8, 2022
    6
    6.9/10
    Nothing here really does anything new but given the past innovation she's displayed that is in no way a critique. It delivers all the elements of a björk record in acceptable ways. It has it's highlights and some songs that although enjoying less aren't bad just not as exciting as the others. It sounds like the blueprint for the more modern electronic musicians such as fka twigs
    6.9/10
    Nothing here really does anything new but given the past innovation she's displayed that is in no way a critique. It delivers all the elements of a björk record in acceptable ways. It has it's highlights and some songs that although enjoying less aren't bad just not as exciting as the others. It sounds like the blueprint for the more modern electronic musicians such as fka twigs ,empress of or perfume genius.
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  75. Sep 2, 2020
    7
    a pesar de tener un buen concepto acerca de la tecnología, naturaleza y espacio sinceramente creo que deja que desear. los instrumentos personalizados y súper elaborados solo para el álbum lo hace rescatable, digo, no hay ningún otro artista que haya manipulado la electricidad para usarla como un instrumento. sin embargo, algunas canciones no hacen sentir al oyente lo suficientementea pesar de tener un buen concepto acerca de la tecnología, naturaleza y espacio sinceramente creo que deja que desear. los instrumentos personalizados y súper elaborados solo para el álbum lo hace rescatable, digo, no hay ningún otro artista que haya manipulado la electricidad para usarla como un instrumento. sin embargo, algunas canciones no hacen sentir al oyente lo suficientemente satisfecho, creo yo. mis canciones favoritas son mutual core, sacrifice y virus. Expand
  76. Sep 1, 2020
    9
    This album is so ahead of its time. It sounds so futuristic and galactic, its experimental-electronic and ethereal sound joined with its lyrical content are just beautiful, it can be kind of challenging for the average listener tho.
Metascore
79

Generally favorable reviews - based on 37 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 32 out of 37
  2. Negative: 0 out of 37
  1. 90
    Biophilia is an excellent addition to her glorious discography.
  2. Nov 1, 2011
    80
    Biophilia is a delicate and highly tactile treat, a unique gem of innovation (pipe organs driven by computers, the mallet-tickled gameleste) and gentle real soul whose breathy endearing heights Bjork hasn't touched in a minute.
  3. Oct 24, 2011
    60
    Despite some flaws in its execution, Biophilia does succeed in pushing beyond the already established album-singles-videos model, and the creation of a digital experience to compliment the music feels like a natural progression in the way that music is packaged and consumed.