• Record Label: Atlantic
  • Release Date: May 8, 2007
User Score
7.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 317 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 29 out of 317

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  1. Oct 5, 2022
    7
    Volta lacks consistency and catchy melodies. Apart from "Earth Intruders" and the masterpiece "Declare Independence", none of the other songs are catchy at all and it kinda proves that the album isn't as well thought out as Bjork thought it to be. Yes Indeed a bold experiment that somehow went well as well as going wrong, the sounds from throughout the world added to the songs and theVolta lacks consistency and catchy melodies. Apart from "Earth Intruders" and the masterpiece "Declare Independence", none of the other songs are catchy at all and it kinda proves that the album isn't as well thought out as Bjork thought it to be. Yes Indeed a bold experiment that somehow went well as well as going wrong, the sounds from throughout the world added to the songs and the flawless transitions, help put this record back together for a semi-solid project. Volta isn't her best, but die-hard fans should definitely find this record bold and unique. Expand
  2. May 1, 2022
    3
    An unforgiving sprawling mess that uncharacteristically provides no merit. It's difficult to digest in the same way sh*t is.
  3. Dec 2, 2020
    10
    Mostly of the songs have a nice miss of sounds and instruments , lirycly it's embrace a more wide range of subjects and is poetically crafted to assure the reality and the fantastic of the Bjork universe that in each sound never goes pedantic.
  4. Aug 29, 2020
    9
    es uno de mis álbumes favoritos y por el que descubrí a björk. la implementación de las trompetas es sublime. desde mi punto de vista lo considero conceptual. es perfecto tal y como es. mis canciones favoritas son todo el álbum.
  5. Apr 7, 2018
    8
    Posiblemente el album mas infravalorado de la cantante, y no se porque, el album es demasiado bueno
  6. Nov 27, 2017
    8
    An interesting piece of art from beginning to end, at some points falling lower than others but worth a listen. The instrumentation is one of the most intriguing qualities, a cultural exploration.
  7. Oct 31, 2017
    7
    Em Volta é possível ver uma Björk nova: trabalhando com Timbaland e mesclando seu estilo com o dele. Isso resulta em uma batida R&B com a sonoridade e dramaticidade de Björk.
  8. Jul 24, 2017
    10
    Volta is the pop-album of Björk's discography. Each song have a different volume. From the slowest intimate ballad ("Pneumonia"), to the biggest electronic dance rhythms ("Declare Independence"), the album is the reflect of the human feelings rainbow. "Vertebrae To Vertebrae" is a highlight in her discography.
  9. Dec 18, 2016
    10
    O melhor álbum da Björk sem dúvida nenhuma, não possui nenhuma falha. Uma pena ser esquecido pelos fãs pela sonoridade mais puxada ao pop e produções de Timbaland e Danja.
  10. Oct 5, 2016
    6
    Volta is my least favourite Bjork album. Though it does contain some excellent production from Timbaland and Danja, overall the album feels rushed and frankly is not terribly interesting. Some of the single remixes are better than the actual tracks. Download: Earth Intruders, Declare Independence.
  11. Aug 7, 2016
    9
    1. Earth Intruders 10/10
    2. Wanderlust 9.8/10
    3. The Dull Flame Of Desire 9/10
    4. Innocence 10/10
    5. I See Who You Are 9.5/10
    6. Vertebrae By Vertebrae 9/10
    7. Pneumonia 9.1/10
    8. Hope 10/10
    9. Declare Independence 10/10
    10. My Juvenile 9.8/10
  12. Jan 28, 2016
    8
    I like how its both thoughtful, introspective at sometimes like in Pneumonia and My Juvenile and both energitic and effortless like Earth Intruders and Wanderlust. The thing about this album that make it seem bad for some, are the way the music flow throught the album. there are many inteeruptions like I See Who You Are right after the Explosive Innocence, Veertebrae by Vertebrar rightI like how its both thoughtful, introspective at sometimes like in Pneumonia and My Juvenile and both energitic and effortless like Earth Intruders and Wanderlust. The thing about this album that make it seem bad for some, are the way the music flow throught the album. there are many inteeruptions like I See Who You Are right after the Explosive Innocence, Veertebrae by Vertebrar right before the reflexive Pneumonia. Expand
  13. Jan 28, 2016
    10
    Declare independence
    Don't let them do that to you
    Declare independence
    Don't let them do that to you
    Justice
    Start your own currency
    Make your own stamp
    Protect your language
  14. Nov 15, 2015
    7
    Although Bjork's vocals are on point, I find this album to be a weaker effort than her previous work; however, it is still good. The main issue I have with this album is that the horn sections in the songs all kind of sound the same which makes this album seem redundant. On the bright side, I love the spunk and energy of this album especially on tracks like "Innocence" and "Wanderlust".Although Bjork's vocals are on point, I find this album to be a weaker effort than her previous work; however, it is still good. The main issue I have with this album is that the horn sections in the songs all kind of sound the same which makes this album seem redundant. On the bright side, I love the spunk and energy of this album especially on tracks like "Innocence" and "Wanderlust". It's not her best, but it is still worth the listen. Expand
  15. Sep 24, 2015
    6
    Bjork's voice is the only sure standout of Volta. Otherwise it feels too produced to believe it came after Medulla. Granted, it's the best album Timbaland has ever produced.
  16. Sep 10, 2015
    10
    This album it's soooooo good. Not my favourite by Björk, but it stills being amazing.
    Freaking amazing, just as she wants to.
    ........................
  17. Jun 5, 2015
    9
    I doubt Volta is Björk's best album to date, but is arguably her most organic, viscerally transparent, sonically challenging and fully-textured; and that's more than enough to call it just brilliant.

    8.7/10
  18. Mar 2, 2015
    10
    I honestly cannot believe that people call this her worst album when Biophilia exists. This is the one that got me introduced to her work and I find it funny that people say "stay away from this album if you want to start listening to her! Terrible introductory album." To each their own, I guess.
  19. Jan 22, 2015
    10
    I love this album, it is not one of her best but also it is still bad because of it, declare independence is the best oh god music I want to go crazy when I hear this song, björk is the best.
  20. Oct 29, 2013
    8
    Exuberant, adventurous, sometimes a bit overindulgent narrative of a globalizing world. Contains some of Björks best lyrics (like Innocence) yet is sometimes marred by a somewhat overenthousiastic Timbaland-beat (Earth Intruders and Innocence). The more overt Björk-tracks have been criticized of being adrift and not having any direction but there's a superb beauty in this moreExuberant, adventurous, sometimes a bit overindulgent narrative of a globalizing world. Contains some of Björks best lyrics (like Innocence) yet is sometimes marred by a somewhat overenthousiastic Timbaland-beat (Earth Intruders and Innocence). The more overt Björk-tracks have been criticized of being adrift and not having any direction but there's a superb beauty in this more narrative-like style. Collaborations with Antony Hegarty (The Dull Flame of Desire) and Mark Bell (I See Who You Are, Declare Independence) take centre-stage here while the overly present Timbaland-collaborations fade a bit. Expand
  21. Oct 28, 2013
    8
    Volta is as crazy as the artwork the first part is energetic, thumping and all over the place, while the the second is more mature, pensieve and philosophical.
  22. May 12, 2013
    9
    A very confusing album (when we talk about the lyrics), the sound is enough to please whatever person who enjoy Bjork's work. Each song is completely different from the other at the sound. The best is Wanderlust, it makes you dance in your room. I think she could do a better work with the last songs, at the last part the album turns a little boring, but this is a really good CD.
  23. Jul 30, 2012
    7
    Her sixth album, I felt, it was a recap of all the work she had done until. It brings up the vicious beats from 'Debut' and 'Post', the high level songwriting of 'Homogenic' and the passionate voice tone from both 'Vespertine' and 'Medúlla'. That said, she sounded a bit tired along the songs, as if she knew it was just a big remix of all her other albums. But even Bjork in herHer sixth album, I felt, it was a recap of all the work she had done until. It brings up the vicious beats from 'Debut' and 'Post', the high level songwriting of 'Homogenic' and the passionate voice tone from both 'Vespertine' and 'Medúlla'. That said, she sounded a bit tired along the songs, as if she knew it was just a big remix of all her other albums. But even Bjork in her lowest levels can stand out making an album better than other artists. Expand
  24. Feb 20, 2012
    5
    The opening tracks re-establish Bjork as the strange pop icon we all grew to love, but something terrible happens in the second half, with mute arrangements, and a lack of vocal diversity, her experimentation's infiltrate this pop album leaving the fans feeling a little betrayed and bewildered by it all. 'Earth Intruders' is still great though.
  25. Oct 11, 2011
    5
    Simply the worst album of Bjork's career, filled with incoherent songs and silly lyrics. Avoid this if you are not a die-hard fan of the Icelandic oddball and don't buy this as her first record.
  26. Jun 24, 2011
    10
    Fantastic, massive, true, limitless, full of hope, full of energy... Volta has a beauty in not a normal way, it lives not in you ,but, through you, all around you... It`s eternal like energy itself.
  27. OlegV.
    Feb 2, 2009
    10
    Dull Flame Of Desire is an incredibly amazing and touching tune - my favourite in last 5 years. It brings me to tears every time I listen to it (ok, now - not but first 20 listens it did :). I See Who Your Are is another tune here which brings to tears. Declare Independence is an amazing electroindustrial energetic, but Pheumonia is one of her most beautiful "quiet" songs. The whole album Dull Flame Of Desire is an incredibly amazing and touching tune - my favourite in last 5 years. It brings me to tears every time I listen to it (ok, now - not but first 20 listens it did :). I See Who Your Are is another tune here which brings to tears. Declare Independence is an amazing electroindustrial energetic, but Pheumonia is one of her most beautiful "quiet" songs. The whole album is as good as her other work, here are only two songs which did not work for me: Wanderlust and My Juvenile. Interesting a lot of fans claim Wandelust as on the the best :) And I think Innocence is too poppy and has too much of Timbaland but it's fine. Earth Intruders shows a perfect balance betweet Timbaland's and Bjork's producing. Expand
  28. SimonB
    May 14, 2008
    0
    How come with every single artist that makes complete psychotic gibberish his or her artstyle, there are people claiming things in the nature of the cock-eyed argument that GOD MOVES IN MYSTERIOUS WAYS? I listened to this album and I find that all of her songs are nothing but noise. It's Björk WITH instruments. This should be referred to as a single instrument which makes lots How come with every single artist that makes complete psychotic gibberish his or her artstyle, there are people claiming things in the nature of the cock-eyed argument that GOD MOVES IN MYSTERIOUS WAYS? I listened to this album and I find that all of her songs are nothing but noise. It's Björk WITH instruments. This should be referred to as a single instrument which makes lots of noise. Björk resorts to yelling a bunch of stuff at different tones and intervalls and calls this music. I'd like to consider that seeing an artist live will make me appreciate their music better... But excuse me, that means the album is shit and her prestations are good. Björk is a visual musical artist. Notice what's wrong here? The only way she can be awesome is through looks. Her music... It. SUCKS. ASS. She picks bits and pieces from other types of musics and just goes on having a seizure. The song "The Dull flame of Desire" was the worst torturous piece of trash I've ever heard in my life. I don't know how long it is but to me, it felt like twenty minutes of a girl and a guy having auditory sex, REPEATING "THE DULL FLAME OF DESSZZZZAAYURRRRRRRR" ... I liked some of her older songs which I'd hear at random, but this... THIS IS GARBAGE! Only buy this shit if you're a fan. I still feel damn dumb I bought it and I deserve to be shunned. Expand
  29. ChrisK
    Oct 2, 2007
    10
    Bjork is my favorite singer of all time. The only problem with her is that she is soo ahead of her time it is ridiculous and that is why alot of people(including myself when i first heard her) don't get her music.... but after seeing her live performing volta i was blown away..... if you want to hear volta at its best download the mp3 of her at coachella 2007.
  30. AaronR
    Aug 12, 2007
    4
    Bjork seems to have been aiming at musical abstract art with this album(as with Medulla) instead of real musical art, as her previous albums were. Most of the songs on this album sound make you feel like you're in an art gallary, watching a bunch of wealthy socialites admire a canvas with random pocka dots all over the place. I must say, I don't get it, and I question the Bjork seems to have been aiming at musical abstract art with this album(as with Medulla) instead of real musical art, as her previous albums were. Most of the songs on this album sound make you feel like you're in an art gallary, watching a bunch of wealthy socialites admire a canvas with random pocka dots all over the place. I must say, I don't get it, and I question the sincerity of those who think the album is awesome. Expand
  31. KhalidB
    Aug 12, 2007
    10
    First time i listened through the cd, i thought it was a complete dissapointment, then i listened it again, it was possibly one of the most amazing things ive listened to this year (besides The Con,Ga Ga Ga,Maths and English etc.) i think a high light is the duets with Anthony, it showed how much emotion she can sing with, it was soo haunting, so original, it almost brought a year to my First time i listened through the cd, i thought it was a complete dissapointment, then i listened it again, it was possibly one of the most amazing things ive listened to this year (besides The Con,Ga Ga Ga,Maths and English etc.) i think a high light is the duets with Anthony, it showed how much emotion she can sing with, it was soo haunting, so original, it almost brought a year to my eye when i first heard the song, it was soo amazing. Bjork, good job, another great success. I hope you put the dull flame on your greatest hits cd (which i expect will be out in the following years) Expand
  32. CP
    Jul 29, 2007
    2
    Prior to Medulla, I can scarcely remember even thinking of skipping a song on a Bjork album. I have loved them all -- almost equally. Volta is an utter disappointment for me. The arrangements are far too sparse and for the love of god -- where is the melody? Earth Intruders is a decent song, but after dozens of listens over a week, I've felt no urge to listen to any of the remaining Prior to Medulla, I can scarcely remember even thinking of skipping a song on a Bjork album. I have loved them all -- almost equally. Volta is an utter disappointment for me. The arrangements are far too sparse and for the love of god -- where is the melody? Earth Intruders is a decent song, but after dozens of listens over a week, I've felt no urge to listen to any of the remaining tracks on this Volta. I'm blown away ... just shocking. Expand
  33. JorgeS
    Jul 19, 2007
    6
    Good album... but a little disappointing because it does not contribute anything new and it is not as original as the previous one.
  34. QimmahN
    Jul 17, 2007
    10
    I am a big fan of Volta. But like all of her last 3 albums -it had to grow on me as I grew in my ability to appreciate such a unique musical mind. I truly see her music as an inspirational, heart melting brilliance. She is consistently genius and if you can see that, you just don
  35. lorenas.
    Jul 3, 2007
    10
    Well as this one, bjork has a special feeling of doing different things and it has a reason, her reason, and it's very funny listening different instruments each time every single album and real satisfactory to listening something weird and hard to digestion, just for some of us
  36. arianiu.i
    Jun 22, 2007
    9
    i hate politics! so i loovvee this album (; and "earth intruders" is very suitable for this "global warning" moments.
  37. RyanJ.
    Jun 18, 2007
    10
    This is most definently one of Björk's best albums. It's magnificently human and ultimately beautiful. As emotionally raw and glorious as 'Homogenic'.
  38. TristramC
    Jun 16, 2007
    8
    God bless Bjork Guðmundsdóttir! Bjork contribution to pop & avant garde in the last 15 years has been among the most interesting stories of that time. No artist has more deftly balanced fearless adventureousness with consistantcy. An artist like Bjork you'd assume would have by now discovered the dark side of following every fanciful whim, producing a turkey or two. Yet God bless Bjork Guðmundsdóttir! Bjork contribution to pop & avant garde in the last 15 years has been among the most interesting stories of that time. No artist has more deftly balanced fearless adventureousness with consistantcy. An artist like Bjork you'd assume would have by now discovered the dark side of following every fanciful whim, producing a turkey or two. Yet looking back over her catelog each of her proper studio releases and both of her soundtracks has its own soul, statement & meaningful contribution as a definative chapter to Bjorks legacy and gift to the world. This record is no different. It takes time to hear it (it took me about 15 spins) but just about everything you've ever loved about a past Bjork release is on this record. Admittedly, some of the child-like exhuberance that used to light up a room has been dulled by the weight of our times. It burns still but feels labored like she has to work at keeping it lit. That aside, who Bjork is to us - planet earths finest offering of avante garde melded with pop music, is better defined on this record than anything previously. Both houses are represented here equally only its avante garde who opens the door first this time around. If this surprises you read the extensive guest artist list for Volta. Aside from Timbaland the most mainstrean contributor is the Tazmanian who flails & kicks behind the kit for Lightning Bolt. Any grumblings you've heard are merely due to the fact there are more pop fans who listen to Bjork than avant garde ones and pop fans are lazy and don't want to put in the work. To be a Bjork fan though is to enjoy the work - to enjoy the embrace of wonder, release the attachment of expectation and letting Bjork guide you to its Volta's purpose. Your beloved ice-pixie has not forsaken you with Volta. Its her most challenging, rewarding album yet. Expand
  39. JeffW
    Jun 11, 2007
    4
    I've successfully made it through this album, in entirety, twice. I've tried to make it through this album on at least five other occasions, usually stopping short after around three tracks into it. Prior to this album, I've never had this problem with Bjork's unique and ever-evolving music. It's actually difficult to listen to some of the songs on this album, I've successfully made it through this album, in entirety, twice. I've tried to make it through this album on at least five other occasions, usually stopping short after around three tracks into it. Prior to this album, I've never had this problem with Bjork's unique and ever-evolving music. It's actually difficult to listen to some of the songs on this album, however, even for a long-time Bjork fan like myself. To be precise, this album feels a lot like an unfinished re-release of some of her older works: "Hope", for instance, is "Cocoon"-esque; "Wanderlust", for instance, is "All Neon Like"-esque. With that said, they are both fairly good tracks, although neither of them feel new. The same stands for a few other tracks on the album. The other 50% of the album is more or less a waste of time, especially the tracks which feature one of the most disgusting/creepy vocalists I've ever heard, "Antony Hegarty". He does Bjork's lead vocals no justice. If you're *really* curious about this album, just buy it used, because I'm sure many of them will be returning to the shelves soon enough. Expand
  40. JamesM
    Jun 8, 2007
    6
    Agree with the Pitchfork review. Volta has some curious moments but a lot of it is without melody and tried to rely on sparse electronica to dig it out of the hole. Disappointing compared to Debut, Post, Homogenic and Vespertine which provide done with a lot more indeed.
  41. CMUTZ
    Jun 8, 2007
    7
    a little deception !
  42. kellyw.
    Jun 7, 2007
    5
    I wish she would have gone further out to sea with this one and not have felt compeled to make a comeback. The result is messy, divided and overly objective, heady. The direct nods to the Drawing Restraint #9 soundtrack makes Volta feels like she subconsciously wanted to further her more abstact and introverted side while feeling obligated to make the next Bjork album.
  43. HeatherW
    Jun 4, 2007
    2
    almost as terrible as her clothing selection. Gross
  44. BL
    Jun 2, 2007
    10
    Very human and magnificent.
  45. IreneB
    May 29, 2007
    3
    Bjork remains my favorite musician. Her music is made for a person like me and I have loved all her work with all my heart previously. Having said that I feel very badly saying this but I must be honest. I do not like Volta at all. Many of the songs drive me crazy. I cannot even listen to it. I had to delete it from my I-Tunes because it was making me angry.
  46. RobH
    May 25, 2007
    6
    I was really dissapointed with this album; the songs just wander without hitting many exciting moments or memorable melodies. I feel like Bjork needs to reenergize and come back with a more inspired album, because it has been a while since she's delivered a stellar album (Homogenic). I was hoping for a return to her more poppy, fun music of the early 90s.
  47. MikeS
    May 24, 2007
    10
    With Bjork sounding this triumphant, the majesty of her talent here in full force, there
  48. RoccoR
    May 23, 2007
    9
    One thing that I hate than anyhting are morons spewing their non-sensical opininons about "Volta". Bjork sings urgently and beautifully on all ten tracks. You have to know Bjork and have a speck of intelligence to understand the music. The more you listen to Volta the more you understand and enjoy it.
  49. JuliaA
    May 20, 2007
    8
    I found this album can be felt more deeper when I heard it by my discman. And I think each songs in Volta are paired up, a sort of short story: Earth Intruders (crazy beats) & Declare Independence (my favorite, it's so fierce) The Dull Flame Of Desire-I See Who You Are (so lovely)-My Juvenile Wanderlust & Innocence Vertebrae By Vertebrae-Pneumonia-Hope A little scattered in themes, I found this album can be felt more deeper when I heard it by my discman. And I think each songs in Volta are paired up, a sort of short story: Earth Intruders (crazy beats) & Declare Independence (my favorite, it's so fierce) The Dull Flame Of Desire-I See Who You Are (so lovely)-My Juvenile Wanderlust & Innocence Vertebrae By Vertebrae-Pneumonia-Hope A little scattered in themes, but Volta's just gorgeous. Expand
  50. [Anonymous]
    May 19, 2007
    4
    I agree completely with Yuka. Only tracks 1-3 are worth listening to; the rest of it is damn near horrible and I'm a huge Bjork fan. Lyrics, inspiration, all of it's out the window. Even "Medulla" had redeeming qualities, but I can't believe what happened here.. Maybe she'll never return to her 90's glory.
  51. CorneV
    May 19, 2007
    10
    The first time I heard Volta I thought it was just okay. But after several listenings I think it's brilliant. Every tune grows on me. Even the slower songs are amazing (although they were the ones I thought of as just okay in the beginning) Not her best album (I can't decide which one that is...) but certainly a classic!
  52. ixata
    May 18, 2007
    10
    true bjork's fans will never give this album less than 8- or even 9! this is bjork, not avril, britney, hilary, or any other pop artist!!! definitely a great album, but never quite surpasses medulla n vespertine, for this one's kinda messy, but still mesmerizes with tracks like earth inruders, vertebrae by vertebrae and declare independence. note 2 critics: listen 2 an album 3-5 true bjork's fans will never give this album less than 8- or even 9! this is bjork, not avril, britney, hilary, or any other pop artist!!! definitely a great album, but never quite surpasses medulla n vespertine, for this one's kinda messy, but still mesmerizes with tracks like earth inruders, vertebrae by vertebrae and declare independence. note 2 critics: listen 2 an album 3-5 times with a good audio system, then give reviews :) Expand
  53. Rodi
    May 17, 2007
    7
    The album starts out brilliantly! But during the second half it's like she loses focus and the album becomes dull and, exept for "Declare Independance", uninteresting.
  54. TPJ
    May 17, 2007
    8
    The more you listen, the more you'll love. Certainly better than the rather average Medulla but nowhere near as good as her earlier stuff, then again not much is.
  55. HenryV
    May 15, 2007
    5
    I consider myself a huge Bjork fan. I love all her previous albums and never found any of them particularly hard to get into. So I am sad to report that Volta is a big disappointment. I pretty much agree with many of the detractors: shoddy production, lack of true songwriting, lack of interesting melody, vague concept, and an overall unfinished feeling. For the first time, it feels like I consider myself a huge Bjork fan. I love all her previous albums and never found any of them particularly hard to get into. So I am sad to report that Volta is a big disappointment. I pretty much agree with many of the detractors: shoddy production, lack of true songwriting, lack of interesting melody, vague concept, and an overall unfinished feeling. For the first time, it feels like she just released an album because she was obligated to. There are a few moments with some potential that never fully materialize ("Wanderlust", "Dull Flame of Desire", "I See Who You Are", "Vertebrae by Vertebrae", "Pneumonia"). After about a dozen listens, the only track that fully satisfies, but still ranks in the medium range of Bjork greatness is "Earth Intruders". I hope she sits down and really hashes out some great music for the next album. Volta is so not worthy of her legacy. But maybe she needed to make this album to cleanse her musical palate. I guess every artist is entitled to one lemon. Collapse
  56. MarcD
    May 13, 2007
    9
    Bjork comes back swinging!
  57. erlingo
    May 13, 2007
    9
    Good Björk so good her 3d best.
  58. BjorkfanNo1
    May 13, 2007
    4
    I love the brass arrangements but the stiff beats and missing tunes makes Volta hard to love. The epic ballad Dull flame of desire never really takes of. Another Bjork album to admire but unlikely to be played much...
  59. WesS
    May 12, 2007
    7
    Not her best by a long shot. In fact this may be her weakest album ever besides Drawing Restraint which is not even really a true Bjork vocal album, but more instrumental in nature. I love Bjork, but this album disappoints.
  60. vinzX
    May 12, 2007
    7
    an ok album, better than medulla, not as good as vespertine....
  61. YukaT
    May 11, 2007
    0
    I am a HUGE Bjork Fan. I loved her ever since her debut. Fell in love with Hyperballad, Joga, Bachlorette, Isobel, just to name a few. Adored the entire Vespertine - I have all her CDs and DVDs. VOLTA is such a disappointment. I was looking forward to it and couldn't believe how bored I was. I decided to give it 3 listens and each time, I got less impressed. The lyrics are not nearly I am a HUGE Bjork Fan. I loved her ever since her debut. Fell in love with Hyperballad, Joga, Bachlorette, Isobel, just to name a few. Adored the entire Vespertine - I have all her CDs and DVDs. VOLTA is such a disappointment. I was looking forward to it and couldn't believe how bored I was. I decided to give it 3 listens and each time, I got less impressed. The lyrics are not nearly as thoughtful and elegant as her previous works and the melodies seem like rehashs of her older material. Her phrasing is sloppy and form is largely non-existent. I even tried to listen to it with pure experimentation in mind.... and I decided that sure, it might be alright if this was her personal little musical diary, but I don't think this album even deserved to be manufactured. I wanted to return this CD, but unfortunately, music store policies won't allow that. I'm soooo dissapointed. I hope the next one will be better. IN the meantime, I"ll listen to all the albums up until Vespertine. Expand
  62. DiegoR
    May 11, 2007
    10
    Masterpiece
  63. MungoB
    May 11, 2007
    10
    Keep listening and you will see. I'm really digging it but wasn't so sure at first.
  64. anderss
    May 10, 2007
    5
    No tunes - no real fun.
  65. musicistam
    May 10, 2007
    1
    Figure-skating judging rules seem to apply; critics have been charitable w/reviews because it's Bjork, and no one wants to say the emperess has no clothes (or no songs.) It sounds like she just sang bits of lyric ideas into her laptop, and rather than flesh them out to full songs, just left them at that. Awkward phrasing, bad vocals (just listen to the first minute of Wanderlust), Figure-skating judging rules seem to apply; critics have been charitable w/reviews because it's Bjork, and no one wants to say the emperess has no clothes (or no songs.) It sounds like she just sang bits of lyric ideas into her laptop, and rather than flesh them out to full songs, just left them at that. Awkward phrasing, bad vocals (just listen to the first minute of Wanderlust), overlongs songs (Earth Intruders could be cut in half) and virtually no melodies...and bad lyrics. Expand
  66. k.
    May 10, 2007
    9
    I think the only Ms. step Bjork made on this album was proclaiming it 'pop' and setting up false expectations. 'Volta' is one step away from 'Drawing Restrant #9' and three steps away from 'Vespertine'. Gorgeous, challenging and strange.
  67. tomd
    May 9, 2007
    8
    i dearly love bjork and think she is one of the most creative arrtists in music today, BUT her need to constantly try new things and outdo her own past work leads to an album that is unfocused and perhaps TOO eclectic. plus i hate stupid duets. everyone's doing them, mostly in an attempt to bolster their fading careers. bjork doesn't need them. i pfrefer the simpler, stripped i dearly love bjork and think she is one of the most creative arrtists in music today, BUT her need to constantly try new things and outdo her own past work leads to an album that is unfocused and perhaps TOO eclectic. plus i hate stupid duets. everyone's doing them, mostly in an attempt to bolster their fading careers. bjork doesn't need them. i pfrefer the simpler, stripped down electronic/experimental sound of her previous music, partly because her great voice is not buried in the production. however, all great artists are driven to experiment, and even if the experiments don't always work (neil young's "trans" for example) it is still better than the "play-it-safe" approach of mainstream music. i would ususually give her a "10" but i'm only rating it 8. perhaps upon more listening, it will grow on me. one thing that can be said about bjork is that she is never boring and always into something new, the mark of a true creative genius. Expand
  68. juanm
    May 9, 2007
    10
    give it a couple of tries... and then you'll have no scape to its charm
  69. AC
    May 9, 2007
    5
    Before she records her next album, she should write some songs first. You know, juicy hooks, melodies, choruses, those little things. This one's nothing but a meandering bummer, and I've loved all of her previous work. No one is beyond criticism. I don't care what funky country you're from. Or how good your voice is.
  70. JeromeF
    May 9, 2007
    9
    Volta is a fantastic effort. It covers so much ground (emotionally and musically) so it can seem scattered. And it kind of is, which is one of it's few downfalls. It is so nice to hear something exuberant (aside from the calm ones of course) after the beautiful sweeping Vespertine and experimental vocal Medulla. Volta kicks off with a jungle-inspired, fun track, called "Earth Volta is a fantastic effort. It covers so much ground (emotionally and musically) so it can seem scattered. And it kind of is, which is one of it's few downfalls. It is so nice to hear something exuberant (aside from the calm ones of course) after the beautiful sweeping Vespertine and experimental vocal Medulla. Volta kicks off with a jungle-inspired, fun track, called "Earth Intruders." This is one of the better songs on the album, and I was dancing around when I heard it, but then the 1 minute+ brass outro, while pretty, completely through me off. And so begins the 8-track downfall. the tracks are all fine, but I dislike how they are all strung together by little nature sounds. It's kind of sweet at first, then you realize "wait... if I want to just listen to one song, I'll get this annoying, unmatching outro." And if theyre not strung together in a way, they end PRECISELY when the next one starts. This works well once ("Dull Fame" to "Innocence") but overall this stringing bothers me. "Wanderlust" and "Innocence" are two of my favorites, and the former may rank among her best songs ever. "Dull Flame of Desire" is beautiful, but I will only listen to it's 7.5-minute structure sometimes when I listen to the album as a whole. From "I See Who You Are" and "Pneumonia," Volta takes a bit of a slowdown, losing some melodic power. These songs are very beautifully crafted though, which makes up for it's bridging. The song I dislike highly is "Hope." It has a terribly trying-too-hard-to-be-political scheme about it ("What's the lesser of two evils, if a suicide bomber made to look pregnant, hits her target or not?") I think it's the worst line on the album. But, then we're saved, by one of the best tracks I've ever heard, "Declare Independence." An industrial-sounding, powerful shouting song where it's repetition works in it's favor. The album closes with the "okay" song "My Juvenile." It's nice, but I don't love it as much as the others. Overall, Volta is not her best album, by FAR. But it's a nice sign that Bjork is not settling down any time soon, and she'll be back with something different (as always) in a few years. Expand
  71. MattD.
    May 9, 2007
    2
    I've never been a Bjork fan, but you could never say she's bland. This one is bland even at its surface. Some songs are excruciatingly long.
  72. BrSm
    May 9, 2007
    9
    It seems like a lot of critics and fans thought that the Timbaland collabarations meant this was going to sound like Nelly Furtado. Did you really think Bjork would stoop to that level? I can't imagine anyone who's been listening since Homogenic would be shocked or disapointed by this album.
  73. Max
    May 9, 2007
    8
    Not her best creation but always super! Her sound is different from everything else and her voice is always magical ! Is this enough?
  74. ToddW
    May 9, 2007
    2
    If Bjork took the time actually trying to improve her craft that she seems to spend on wearing the next outrageous outfit, she may become relevant again. I mean, what the hell is that thing she is dressed in on the cover of her latest offering? Too bad that reporter in the Orient didn't knock some sense into her. Eclectic is one thing. Nuts is another. I'm afraid our girl has If Bjork took the time actually trying to improve her craft that she seems to spend on wearing the next outrageous outfit, she may become relevant again. I mean, what the hell is that thing she is dressed in on the cover of her latest offering? Too bad that reporter in the Orient didn't knock some sense into her. Eclectic is one thing. Nuts is another. I'm afraid our girl has strayed a bit too far into the latter camp on this one. Expand
  75. ChrisG
    May 9, 2007
    8
    Profoundly experimental, sketchy, brilliant (at points), head-scratching and quasi-fun. Some tracks really shine like Pneumonia and Innocence, while others flounder and become restless beasts (The Dull Flame of Desire / Declare Independence). But a good B album is better than many. She's still a unique force in the music scene and shows no signs of musical fatigue.
  76. rheom
    May 9, 2007
    10
    theres nuthin really much to argue about bjorks album; watever bjork does in her carrer I will still support her;shes a legend and I luv her!
  77. mikes.
    May 8, 2007
    5
    Well if you strip down all the experimental production choices you would have a very boring album. Instead you have a just semi-boring album. If the production was better it would probably be a average to above average album. But the production is weak. Bjork is retreading familiar territory here and she sounds very similar here to vespertine, with the exception that the production now is Well if you strip down all the experimental production choices you would have a very boring album. Instead you have a just semi-boring album. If the production was better it would probably be a average to above average album. But the production is weak. Bjork is retreading familiar territory here and she sounds very similar here to vespertine, with the exception that the production now is not as fresh nor as ground breaking as it was back in 2001. The songwriting isn't as good, the melodies aren't as good, and the production is stale and uninspired. A poor, disappointing release from an artist that had previously been inventive and creative with each release; she has slipped into a groove. An artist that relies on her reputation as a innovative artist, repeating the same formula since 2001 hurts her reputation and will most likely disappoint. Expand
  78. BM
    May 8, 2007
    10
    I seem to find the joy out of this records that the critics don't. The moments of beauty in this record "The Dull Flame Of Desire" & "Vertebrae by Vertebrae" matched with the ferocity and driven songs as "Innocence" & "Declare Independence" suggest a fond welcome back to the Bjork we all knew from Debut - Homogenic. Impressive record from one of the most important forces in Music today.
  79. triumphofaheart
    May 8, 2007
    9
    fantastic
  80. BB
    May 8, 2007
    5
    What the hell happened? There are 3 great songs - the rest have no pulse. She said this album was going to be more fun. What does she consider fun?
  81. LeoF
    May 8, 2007
    9
    Bjork's albums were never easy and this one is probably her most difficult yet. Definitely, not for everyone.
  82. TimW.
    May 7, 2007
    6
    This is an album only bjork could create; however, for her lofty standards it is a disappointment in vision and execution. There are allusions to all her previous albums, but an attempt at taking the best of those works and putting them in a blender merely offers a schizophrenic record with little melody. Marketed as a dancable, "fun" album, especially with the Timbaland, only the first This is an album only bjork could create; however, for her lofty standards it is a disappointment in vision and execution. There are allusions to all her previous albums, but an attempt at taking the best of those works and putting them in a blender merely offers a schizophrenic record with little melody. Marketed as a dancable, "fun" album, especially with the Timbaland, only the first single "Earth Intruders" lives up to the hype. Don't get me wrong, "Volta" is a good album, but it makes no leap forward for such a progressive artist and requires a few spins for its best moments to take hold. Expand
  83. frankm
    May 7, 2007
    8
    why does metacritic use reviews from a terrible magazine like NOW?
  84. CameronS
    May 7, 2007
    10
    Bjork rocks! Earth Intruders is the best single of the year. Buy this instead of your run of the mill pre-teen pop garbage that keeps being released.
  85. andym
    May 7, 2007
    8
    half of the songs are reminiscent of The Sugarcubes, and the rest are similar to many songs from Dancer In the Dark/Selmasongs (especially the brass sections). All in all, though, it's a nice effort. Not nearly as intimate as Vespertine; not as grand as homogenic and not as edgy as medulla. It seems more of a post-modern blend of Post and Debut
  86. iieee
    May 7, 2007
    7
    on paper this album does read very well, i expected high energy and it's not here!? parts of it remind me why i fell in love with her years ago but other bits bring me back to why she gives me a headache!? i'm pretty mixed about this one. hardcore fans with LOVE it others might eject it the moment of entry!? anyway Bjork...love ya! but it's all starting to feel a bit old!? on paper this album does read very well, i expected high energy and it's not here!? parts of it remind me why i fell in love with her years ago but other bits bring me back to why she gives me a headache!? i'm pretty mixed about this one. hardcore fans with LOVE it others might eject it the moment of entry!? anyway Bjork...love ya! but it's all starting to feel a bit old!? and that's sad. Expand
  87. AlanS
    May 4, 2007
    8
    I love Bjork and expected, based on early reports, for this CD to be slightly less experimental and more groovy. Now I am in it for the ride no matter what she does but I would have preferred more to dance to. That said, Dull Flame of Desire, Wanderlust and Declare Independence are some of her best ideas ever. There is a certain lack of polish to the CD that is sometimes refreshing and I love Bjork and expected, based on early reports, for this CD to be slightly less experimental and more groovy. Now I am in it for the ride no matter what she does but I would have preferred more to dance to. That said, Dull Flame of Desire, Wanderlust and Declare Independence are some of her best ideas ever. There is a certain lack of polish to the CD that is sometimes refreshing and sometimes a bit disappointing. Expand
  88. JustinT
    May 4, 2007
    8
    People, especially reviewers are morons. This isn't Bjork returning to her "Debut" or "Post" days as some have said. Nor is it a "pop" album as many have been led to believe. I think people were expecting something much more superficial, "catchy" and commercial. But it isn't any of those things. We are talking about Bjork. Just like all her previous albums it's daring, People, especially reviewers are morons. This isn't Bjork returning to her "Debut" or "Post" days as some have said. Nor is it a "pop" album as many have been led to believe. I think people were expecting something much more superficial, "catchy" and commercial. But it isn't any of those things. We are talking about Bjork. Just like all her previous albums it's daring, emotional, inventive and brilliantly odd. Standout tracks:Earth Intruders, Wanderlust, Declare Independence, Innocence and Dull Flame of Desire. Please don't buy this album unless your an estatic Bjork fan, because it is NOT FOR YOU otherwise. Expand
  89. WillT
    May 3, 2007
    10
    Not as good as Medulla, but equally thrilling and wonderous.
  90. HarryK
    May 3, 2007
    10
    One of the best albums in many years. I was amazed with some of the songs, 'Declare Independence' being the greatest. This is a keeper!
  91. M.T.
    Apr 29, 2007
    9
    its a mix of her last 3 studio albums. 'Declare Independence' is a political version of "Pluto". "I See Who You Are" is very intimate and touching. All of the Timbaland/Danja/Bjork collabs are on point! Bjork always surprises and scares.
  92. DericM
    Apr 27, 2007
    6
    In Medulla she lost her arrangements. In this album she lost her melodies. It's quite decent, cohesive, and interesting, but it just isn't catchy as her work from Debut up till Vespertine.
Metascore
77

Generally favorable reviews - based on 35 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 29 out of 35
  2. Negative: 0 out of 35
  1. Volta is arguably Bjork's loosest and most ruminative record, and though it touches on everything she's ever done, it's not as gripping or coherent as her best stuff.
  2. Listen intently, repeatedly, and you'll hear much to widen your consciousness... But listen for, you know, enjoyment and you'll be left wanting.
  3. Every song on Volta sounds like it was birthed in no fewer than 10 months, if not five years. "Fun" hardly has an opportunity to enter the picture when Björk's now seemingly permanent fastidiousness remains her métier.