User Score
8.8

Universal acclaim- based on 619 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 41 out of 619

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  1. Mar 15, 2023
    9
    Narrative, melancholic and with her grieving process for the first time, Bjork shows us that she is capable of mixing the bizarre with her feelings.
  2. May 1, 2022
    9
    Björk most emotionally dejected album. This chronicling of a dissolution of marriage really digs deep into what a divorce is and it's impact. Seriously her writing here is so direct and concise ,pulled by her pronunciation that seem to crawl gradually from heartache to heartache. The emotional climax "black lake" os a first listen experience i will always cherish,it sent shivers down myBjörk most emotionally dejected album. This chronicling of a dissolution of marriage really digs deep into what a divorce is and it's impact. Seriously her writing here is so direct and concise ,pulled by her pronunciation that seem to crawl gradually from heartache to heartache. The emotional climax "black lake" os a first listen experience i will always cherish,it sent shivers down my spine and left me speechless. Quite possibly my second favorite by her. Expand
  3. Feb 5, 2022
    10
    um ótimo album do inicio ao fim,sendo um dos melhores trabalhos da decada passada
  4. Oct 30, 2021
    9
    This is not the catchy pop album you're looking for, it is what it is and is perfect like that, lyrics, production, composition, visuals. Guðmundsdóttir is OK with it, us as well.
  5. Aug 29, 2020
    9
    un álbum que realmente llega a doler, con una temática muy, MUY buena y canciones que puedes sentir. björk realmente sabe lo que hace y vulnicura es simplemente un álbum espléndido. mis canciones favoritas son lionsong, stonemilker y mouth mantra (le pondría un 8.5 pero se asemeja más a 9 lol)
  6. Apr 19, 2020
    10
    Beautiful and heartbreaking with a hint of hope. No other album sounds like this
  7. Oct 10, 2019
    10
    I honestly didn't think Bjork had it in her to produce another strikingly emotional masterpiece after Vespertine (up until Vulnicura was released it was my personal favorite of hers).

    I have always been a big fan but somewhere along the way she lost me with Medulla and Volta (I have since come around to appreciating and loving them). Debut, Post, Homogenic, and Selmasongs are also all
    I honestly didn't think Bjork had it in her to produce another strikingly emotional masterpiece after Vespertine (up until Vulnicura was released it was my personal favorite of hers).

    I have always been a big fan but somewhere along the way she lost me with Medulla and Volta (I have since come around to appreciating and loving them). Debut, Post, Homogenic, and Selmasongs are also all personal favorites.

    Biophillia was a lovely return to form even though it was a bit too abstract for some people's tastes. It was nice to hear her slowly start introducing strings back into her music. It took me a while to come around to Biophillia but I appreciate it now for what it.

    Bjork is always at her absolute best when she deals with her emotions and much like she allowed us into her space with Vespertine as she cooed delightfully about falling in love to some of the iciest and most shimmering of tunes this side of the North Pole, she once again allows us into her personal space to experience the end of the love affair Vespertine started. It's filled with pain, sorrow, and anger as it deals with some heavy emotions that only the end of a love affair can conjure.

    I can't make it through to "Family" without there being tears streaming down my face. This record Is a very emotional and often brutal and dark, black and bruising experience for me.

    Vulnicura now ties Vespertine as my two favorite Bjork albums of all time. They are twins - the one light and full of love the other dark and full of sadness.

    Thank you, Bjork, for this album. It touches my soul in ways I can't describe.

    Favorite tracks : "Stonemilker"; "Lionsong"; "Black Lake", "Family"; "Atom Dance"
    Enjoyable tracks: "Notget"; "Quicksand"
    Least favorite track - "Mouth Mantra" - I always seem to skip this one
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  8. Sep 3, 2019
    10
    One of her best in 14 years! Sad. Reborn. Production mind-blowing. She outdid herself. She reinvented herself.
  9. Jun 15, 2019
    10
    The most vulnerable Bjork release to date. I can feel conected in her life the minute I play this record. An amazing artist that never fails to DE-LI-VER. 10!
  10. Jan 12, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It is the get-go when you want to hear what real heartbreak can do to a person. (I am gonna address the songs in order). This album addreses discommunication in a relationship and how one tries to keep the relationship healthy and moving, which can be seen in Lionsong. After that Björk considers possibilities of the end of the relationship and whether how and why she will be affected by it. But with Black Lake we can see that she finally addresses that she and her built family is broken after the relationship. Like her latest album Utopia this album is like a puzzle and it all comes together at once when it is finished. But in this album the lyrics are much stronger and definite, the soundscape mirrors her wounds and her hurt, and the way the songs are ordered shows us that love has different stages and one can feel destroyed after a relationship but can turn all the pain and hope into a piece of art. The songs after Family shows us that love can save you from feeling pain but can also cause you to get away from reality and live in a world of platonic hope. After that she starts to embrace pain and be true to herself as we can see in Atom Dance and wishes to heal. This is Björk when she is in top of her game and this is pure excellence. All of the songs are ordered and planned. First comes the love, then the pain and the regret, then denial and the feeling of emptiness, then the embrace of her feelings and healing. Expand
  11. Jul 12, 2018
    7
    'Vulnicura' is Bjork's first dystopian record, also known as her "hell" or "breakup" record. Although the lyrics can be redundant, the atmosphere of the album is godly and miraculous. The album proves itself that it is able to give the listeners the imagination of how hell really looks like... maybe in a less exaggerating way but still. The production is amazing, and there are a bunch of'Vulnicura' is Bjork's first dystopian record, also known as her "hell" or "breakup" record. Although the lyrics can be redundant, the atmosphere of the album is godly and miraculous. The album proves itself that it is able to give the listeners the imagination of how hell really looks like... maybe in a less exaggerating way but still. The production is amazing, and there are a bunch of tracks on the album that is aimed to empower oneself, which is why the tracks give out a sort of IDNAM "I Don't Need A Man" vibe, which is also why I really do like this album.
    Strongest Tracks: "Stonemilker", "Lionsong", "Family", "Notget", "Atom Dance", "Mouth Mantra"
    Weakest Track(s): "Black Lake"
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  12. Jun 16, 2018
    10
    This is Amazing, I Can't Believe how a sad album can make me feel really high, also Björk has a great scent that can make me feel a thousand emotions in one song
  13. Jun 2, 2018
    10
    AGARRENME QUE QUIERO EXPLOTAR, EXPLOTAR ESTA CUERPA DE MÍ, MEGA ARTE MEGA BIBLIA PATRONA DE TODAS SIRVIENTA DE NADIE, LLORANDA LLORANDA CON VULNIQK Y BLACK LAKE AGGARENME QUE ME AHOGA EN MIS LAGRIMAS QUEDARÉ TODA UTOPÍA YA
  14. May 10, 2018
    10
    God, this album is an emotional punch to the gut. Between gothic horror-style violins and Bjork alternating between morbid and emotional, Vulnicura is possibly Bjork's greatest achievement. I honestly believe that in 200 years people will look back at Vulnicura in the same way that we look at Beethoven.
  15. Apr 8, 2018
    9
    arteeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee BIBLIA DEL ALTERNATIVO
  16. Apr 4, 2018
    9
    one of the most underrated albums of björk, also one of the most difficult to digest. it is enough to see the visuals, listen to the lyrics in depth and capture the instruments to know that it is a masterpiece. We can hear the pain of björk in each verse.
  17. Jan 26, 2018
    10
    This was one of the most interesting relationship I had with the album. First of all this was my first Bjork record and I didn't knew what to expect. But then I first listened I was like okay this is odd and strange. I needed about two years to grow on me totally and these two years it has grown on me so much that I think I will never be able to destroy the roots of this album in my heartThis was one of the most interesting relationship I had with the album. First of all this was my first Bjork record and I didn't knew what to expect. But then I first listened I was like okay this is odd and strange. I needed about two years to grow on me totally and these two years it has grown on me so much that I think I will never be able to destroy the roots of this album in my heart even if I wanted to. Now I think this is one of the best albums of all time. Favorite track: History Of Touched, least favorite: Atom Dance. Expand
  18. Dec 3, 2017
    4
    Meh. Not sure what to expect from Bjork anymore. Probably at the end of the day only she can enjoy her little sonic experiment. Visuals saved the whole story, songwriting no that much. Confused record, but better than horrid Biophilia.
  19. Nov 24, 2017
    9
    One year of the release of vulnicura. Album that is not just about the end of a long-time relationship, but an emotional journey of before and after to the slow recovery. With Strings and beats accompanied of verses going of "We have emotional needs // I wish to synchronize our feelings" to "Did I love you too much?" '' You have nothing to give // Your heart is hollow // I'm drowned inOne year of the release of vulnicura. Album that is not just about the end of a long-time relationship, but an emotional journey of before and after to the slow recovery. With Strings and beats accompanied of verses going of "We have emotional needs // I wish to synchronize our feelings" to "Did I love you too much?" '' You have nothing to give // Your heart is hollow // I'm drowned in sorrows // At the sight of hope is ever recover // eternal pain and horrors '' Björk takes us on a journey of deep pain, but in reward with her feelings, mostly, they are mutual.
    Best tracks: Stonemilker, Lionsong, Black Lake, Family and Atom Dance.
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  20. Oct 31, 2017
    8
    Björk está de volta e melhor do que nunca. Vulnicura é totalmente pessoal sobre o seu relacionamento que terminou. Só não teve mais sucesso comercial porque infelizmente o álbum vazou 2 antes do lançamento e a Björk liberou ele digitalmente antes da hora.
  21. Oct 18, 2017
    10
    With this album, Björk reimaginate her own self, in this journey of love we could travel in every single emotion and somehow, the pain gave us one of the 2015's greatest albums, and isn't easy to find a filler there
  22. Jul 24, 2017
    7
    A lot of people say this album isn't sad. Maybe it is, maybe it isn't. But it still is an unvisited place in Björk's discography : the emotional pain, and the emotional healing. I always was more fascinated in the bloody / physical side of Björk's music. So this record, even if it's deeply moving and efficient, is less attractive than her previous records, and the sadness that haunt theA lot of people say this album isn't sad. Maybe it is, maybe it isn't. But it still is an unvisited place in Björk's discography : the emotional pain, and the emotional healing. I always was more fascinated in the bloody / physical side of Björk's music. So this record, even if it's deeply moving and efficient, is less attractive than her previous records, and the sadness that haunt the record is (oh so greatly executed) bringing me into places I don't really want to visit. That type of record can't be reviewed without affective subjectivity.
    + Atom Dance is the highlight of the album in the voice production.
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  23. Jun 10, 2017
    9
    If you've ever experienced a break-up, this album is going to be your cure. Especially if you are listening it without shuffle mode. It's like reviewing your story again.
    By the way, Quicksand is my everything.
  24. Oct 5, 2016
    8
    Vulnicura is definitely a grower. Producers Arca and The Haxan Cloak elegantly mix subtle beats with gorgeous string arrangements, creating something you’d expect from The Knife. My only complaint is the songs aren’t particularly innovative for Björk, however are rich and beautiful. Download: Black Lake, Stone Milker, Family.
  25. Jul 8, 2016
    10
    BJörk Nunca me decepciona, es una gran artista y siempre hace arte, mi favorita Lionsong, todo el album es excelente y ni se hable del diseño y la portada, simplemente perfecto.
  26. Apr 8, 2016
    10
    Vulnicura is a very well crafted album. It features one of Bjork's best vocals, as she sings with very deep emotion. The strings add an additional melancholic feeling to the listener. This album really shows Bjork's unbeatable prowess.
  27. Mar 29, 2016
    10
    This album is a proof of björk's talent. The beats, the strings and her goddess voice show her brutal pain with a beautiful and fantastic ethereal atmosphere. If you cant appreciate this art masterpiece, well... F*ck u.
  28. Mar 2, 2016
    10
    BEST ALBUM OF 2015. One of the greatest works of our time. Tis' a pity it has a very small score, when **** rapers has scores nearly 100..............
  29. Feb 21, 2016
    10
    OLHA EU NÃO POSSO NEM VER QUE EU ADORO, MELHOR ´PALBUM DA CARREIRA SIM, SÓ NÃO É MELHOR QUE O HOMOGENIC, PISOU FORTE NO VOLTA QUE NINGUEM QUER AQUELE TRECO NÃO SÓ LANÇOU PRA CONSEGUIR PAGAR AS CONTAS DO BIOPHILIA
  30. Jan 21, 2016
    8
    This is a relationship breakup album, infused with heartache, and will surely reduce some to tears. I was taken aback by how emotional this record is at its high points, and there are some wonderful if utterly dark highs, which makes the more abstract and distancing parts something of a frustration.
  31. Jan 2, 2016
    10
    A desafinador, avant-garde, daring, conceptual, extravagant album ... Words fail to describe "vulnicura" new Björk album, this one was written and produced by Björk own in partnership with producer Ark and The Haxan Cloak. Björk did all the string arrangements graced us with an extraordinary work of art ...
  32. Nov 14, 2015
    10
    There's a candor here that hasn't always touched the Icelandic singer/composer's electro-dreamscape output. This album is simplily amazing and powerful! Amazing!!
  33. Nov 12, 2015
    9
    Björk is unstoppable. It is almost as if the saying "Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned" was written in response to this album. She is vulnerable, vicious, remorseful, pensive, angry. There is such an incredibly wide range of emotions displayed in this 9-track LP. The music is at times joyful, at times devastatingly sad. The strings on "Black Lake" sound as if they are moribund. As aBjörk is unstoppable. It is almost as if the saying "Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned" was written in response to this album. She is vulnerable, vicious, remorseful, pensive, angry. There is such an incredibly wide range of emotions displayed in this 9-track LP. The music is at times joyful, at times devastatingly sad. The strings on "Black Lake" sound as if they are moribund. As a listener, one only hopes that Björk has moved on from her former lover, and that she never has to endure such profound suffering ever again. She had written Vespertine during a period of pure, uninhibited bliss. Vulnicura serves as the death of those emotions. Expand
  34. Nov 6, 2015
    8
    I met Björk thanks to this album and I really loved it. 58 mins of Björk's whispers and thin voice, and the lyrics are so twisted and well thought out. She nailed it. x
  35. Nov 4, 2015
    9
    I rescind my earlier mixed review. Vulnicura has grown on me quite a bit since I last gave tried it out, and I think I finally "get it" now. For those looking for the bouncy, fun Bjork, you may not get what you are looking for. But for those people who are willing to try an ethereal, dark, moody, and intense journey into the deepest human emotions, this new record hits the spot.
  36. Sep 8, 2015
    10
    This album is the best album that I've ever heard. It's sounds so good. Bjork is a god, and with this album shows that she can do music very well. The album of the year, i think.
  37. Aug 4, 2015
    10
    Just blown away , very bold alum . This album really explores heart break in a whole different levels . Lush string arrangements with dark yet hypnotic undertone within every track. Her voice just tops it off with the musical production of the album .
    Love you Bjork !!!!!
  38. Jun 14, 2015
    10
    This is Björk's most vulnerable album so far, starting from the relaxing violins of "Stonemilker", to the heartbreaking "Black Lake" this album it's just so beautiful.
  39. Jun 9, 2015
    9
    Vulnicura is a record that moves the listener from the first track till the end. It is divinely produced by The Haxan Cloak and Arca and is about the end of a relationship, which means that it's a sad album. The string arrangements are great and add a melancholic feel while the electronic elements hypnotize the listener.
  40. Jun 5, 2015
    9
    Vulnicura seems to be the perfect match between Homogenic and Vespertine but still manages to sound pretty unique, and (of course, as any other Björk album) pretty challenging and impressive. Pain has never felt that delicious.

    9.3/10
  41. Apr 21, 2015
    8
    One of Bjork's most straightforward releases ever. DEEPLY personal lyrics set to emotionally wrenching string orchestrations, creating a soundscape set to the most devastating break-up conceivable, make for an incredibly raw experience. Her voice, unfettered by age, is as celestial and enigmatic as ever. The production is a refined, gorgeous presentation, though the reliance on strings canOne of Bjork's most straightforward releases ever. DEEPLY personal lyrics set to emotionally wrenching string orchestrations, creating a soundscape set to the most devastating break-up conceivable, make for an incredibly raw experience. Her voice, unfettered by age, is as celestial and enigmatic as ever. The production is a refined, gorgeous presentation, though the reliance on strings can be a bit heavy at times. Another solid album from our tirelessly innovative nymph-goddess of the cosmos. Expand
  42. Apr 16, 2015
    9
    This album requires a lot of attention. When listened to carefully, it unravels itself and exposes all of its layers. It is one of Bjork's most emotional releases to date. Very raw, very real. Loved it. The only track I felt iffy about was Lionsong, which is a good standalone track, but lesser when compared to the rest of the album.
  43. Mar 30, 2015
    9
    A harmoniously pleasant experienced based on heartbreak but transformed into a piece of art, Vulnicura showcases the endless talent and creativity when it comes to production, vocals and imagery of the beloved Icelandic multifaceted artist Björk. An example of how incredible her works can be conceived, plus a definite highlight of the year. (Favourite Songs: Black Lake, Stonemilker andA harmoniously pleasant experienced based on heartbreak but transformed into a piece of art, Vulnicura showcases the endless talent and creativity when it comes to production, vocals and imagery of the beloved Icelandic multifaceted artist Björk. An example of how incredible her works can be conceived, plus a definite highlight of the year. (Favourite Songs: Black Lake, Stonemilker and Family: simply beautiful songs) Expand
  44. Mar 30, 2015
    10
    Fabrictii has given a wonderful review here. Concise, well-written, and thoughtful. I'm still sorting in my mind through the contents of Vulnicura, at the completion of which I'll emerge with my own sufficing review. Til then, I might remark that Vulnicura is yet another piece of classic, growth-oriented Björk, this with an ostensibly modest range compared with cosmic-themed beauty Biophilia.
  45. Mar 16, 2015
    10
    She can write dance and pop music, but she does not give a **** about doing so, she is beyond that. She uses technology, she arranges strings and horns the way no one has done in the past, she is constantly breaking time signature rules. She is the one and only musician today who has created something no one has not even dared to dream of creating. Bjork is a musical phenomenon. In 30She can write dance and pop music, but she does not give a **** about doing so, she is beyond that. She uses technology, she arranges strings and horns the way no one has done in the past, she is constantly breaking time signature rules. She is the one and only musician today who has created something no one has not even dared to dream of creating. Bjork is a musical phenomenon. In 30 years, she will be a course in music schools and a legend in our laptops and our cd collections. That's what Bjork and "Vulnicura" stand for - music history, once again. Read the whole review here: http://www.anartcalled.blogspot.gr/2015/01/bjork-vulnicura.html Expand
  46. Mar 10, 2015
    9
    Bjork really don't know how to make a bad work. The album is short but is filled with emotion, Bjork's voice,virtuous as always, fits perfectly with the songs melody, the instrumental is a masterpiece that deserves a special attention. Its a very very good taste work.
  47. Mar 8, 2015
    10
    I thoroughly enjoyed this album. While the long song lengths may scare some listeners away at first, every song is truly amazing in its own way, and there is not one song I feel that is "weak", or perhaps "too long".
  48. Feb 18, 2015
    8
    While many people were expecting a comeback Bjork closer to electronic works like crazy in Voltaic or Medulla, Vulnicura shows a very moving melt capacity between the vocalities and soft clever instrumentals, and a mastery in the output of each individual track, enhanced by an evocative sadness. Despite being an artist imprinted on an alternative style, Bjork shows how she can (or better,While many people were expecting a comeback Bjork closer to electronic works like crazy in Voltaic or Medulla, Vulnicura shows a very moving melt capacity between the vocalities and soft clever instrumentals, and a mastery in the output of each individual track, enhanced by an evocative sadness. Despite being an artist imprinted on an alternative style, Bjork shows how she can (or better, how she needs) singing without autotune or any digital effect applied on her careful voice.
    The thing that impressed me the most is that the overly long tracks (as Family or Black Lake) didn't appear boring at all in their completeness and gave instead the same effect of the shorter ones. Speaking of flaws, it isn't a so varied album like all her previous ones, and sometimes it sounds too much like a holy mass.
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  49. Feb 17, 2015
    10
    Essa é a primeira era que o peguei dela. Vulnicura é maravilhoso do inicio ao fim. Ela soube criar um dos seus melhores albums. É único, inspirador e magnifico.
  50. Feb 4, 2015
    10
    Despite a viscous leak days after announcing the album, Björk counteracts by releasing the album the following week, 2 months ahead of schedule.

    Upon first listen, despite the songs being unconventional, there is something accessible about the entire feel of the album. From the beautiful/striking string arrangements, all arranged by Björk, to the beats that bump and grind under the
    Despite a viscous leak days after announcing the album, Björk counteracts by releasing the album the following week, 2 months ahead of schedule.

    Upon first listen, despite the songs being unconventional, there is something accessible about the entire feel of the album. From the beautiful/striking string arrangements, all arranged by Björk, to the beats that bump and grind under the music, to the personal lyrics, and of course, that voice, Vulnicura manages to be classic and futuristic as the same time.

    At 9 songs, one might be quick to say that there is not enough here, but this is Björk we are talking about. One full play-through of this album feels like 13 songs at least. It takes you on a grand journey of wonder, pain, uncertainty, and mystery.
    Instant standout tracks, in order of appearance, Stonemilker, Lionsong, Black Lake, and Notget, but that's just a first listen through. Atom Dance and Mouth Mantra sound very neat and promising once given more time, while History of Touches, Family, and Quicksand are fast growers.

    Vulincura is a breath of fresh air, both in modern day music, and in Björk's lineup of albums.
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  51. Feb 4, 2015
    10
    Get big sound capable cans/speakers for this. Plug in, turn on, drop out. Bjork is like fine wine,...gets better with age and just a little bit fruitier.

    Initially I was not blown away by this but after listening in the jeep with the 18 speakers and my might sub woofer WOW WOW WOW this album came to life! Test the speakers in your local music store if you've ever wondered why you should
    Get big sound capable cans/speakers for this. Plug in, turn on, drop out. Bjork is like fine wine,...gets better with age and just a little bit fruitier.

    Initially I was not blown away by this but after listening in the jeep with the 18 speakers and my might sub woofer WOW WOW WOW this album came to life! Test the speakers in your local music store if you've ever wondered why you should pay premium prices for premium sound.

    BJORK IS DA VINCI OF THE MUSIC WORLD, THIS LADY PAINTS WITH SOUND!!!
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  52. Jan 30, 2015
    10
    This is pretty much Homogenic meets anti-Vespertine...Which is a great thing. Powerful lyrics, emotion strings. The vibe is a stark contrast to the theme of Vespertine
  53. Jan 27, 2015
    10
    With each new record Björk moves off into a new sonic direction. Expertly wrapping her vocals around lush instrumentation, bouncing from motif to motif with every new album she releases. Oddly enough however, it would seem with “Vulnicura” she’s taken a step back (or few) to a sound she first played with in 1997, on her critically lauded “Homogenic”. On that record she devised a sonicWith each new record Björk moves off into a new sonic direction. Expertly wrapping her vocals around lush instrumentation, bouncing from motif to motif with every new album she releases. Oddly enough however, it would seem with “Vulnicura” she’s taken a step back (or few) to a sound she first played with in 1997, on her critically lauded “Homogenic”. On that record she devised a sonic genre of “modern Icelandic pop music” by pairing lush, romantic strings with heavy, pulsing, explosive “volcanic” beats. It paid off to great effect, but she moved on in her career shape shifting the musical motifs behind her, until now.
    While the beats on “Vulnicura” are nowhere as aggressive as on “Homogenic” it’s quite clear that the sonic palette is quite similar. Although this return to past formula is a bit uncharacteristic it never sounds redundant of her past work. Björk still has a knack for compelling, and beautifully ornate string arrangement. And her collaborators this time around (Arca, the Haxan Cloak) help flesh out these songs, and create the intense mood that surrounds this body of work.
    While possibly not her most experimental, I strangely found this record also not her most immediate. While her last few records have not been poppy, they’ve had at least some fairly ear grabbing, and even catchy moments. I think this is in direct relation to the stretched out time lengths of these songs (some of her longest yet), which result in the songs coming on more slowly. Often times the first few listens can drag on as the general ideas in the songs can repeat a few times. But slowly the songs start to open up.
    The subject of which is to put it simply; heartbreak. Which leads “Vulnicura” into being a fairly open and honest look at Björk’s emotional state during the course of events. Making this collection of songs, certainly her most personal to date.
    Opening on the stunningly beautiful “Stonemilker” with somber strings that turn hopefully courageous with a soaring chorus, which may even rival 1997’s “Joga”. “Lionsong” starts with a very tight vocally processed harmony reminiscent of “Biophilia”’s “Dark Matter” (possibly one of the only sonic remnants of “Vulnicura”’s predecessor). “History of Touches” finds Björk reminiscing over glittery and stuttering vocal-like synths ( like a mix between the heavily processed vocal haze of “Medulla”’s “Desired Constellation” and Arca’s work on FKA Twig’s “Water Me”).
    A shift of events happens on the albums centerpiece: the moody, dense, and absolute stunner of a track “Black Lake”. Pensive string and vocal swells dip in and out over this composition, sometimes over soft percussion, reflecting on the devastation after the breakup, and berating the former partner for the way things turned out. About halfway through the track heavy pulsating beats and electronics kick in and grow with magnitude, before dissipating once more into swelling furies, and leading off with a crying violin solo. “Family” starts off hauntingly with a brooding atmosphere and Björk wishing to mourn “the death of her family”, implicating the other people affected by this breakup like their daughter. This swells and scatters, leaving Björk to sing before jagged and dizzying string arpeggios cutting down like knives, before dissipating into an almost heavenly haze (which brings back some of the texture and atmosphere of “Vespertine”), implementing some of the only choral arrangements on the record, for which have largely been abandoned in place of strings.
    “Notget” starts with a dizzy swirling string theme, alternated with either darker strings violently sawing back and forth, or spinning electronic percussion. I feel some Asian and Middle Eastern influences in the main sonic themes repeated in this song. “Atom Dance” percolates with percussive pizzicato strings dancing with a similar rhythmic-ness found on “Biophilia” cut “Hollow”, as well as the use of natural phenomena as lyrical basis. Guest collaborator from her 2007 record “Volta”, Antony Hegarty, contributes some underlying backing vocals, and later some warbled vocals all on his own.
    The least accessible cut solidifies in “Mouth Mantra”. It’s swirling composition is quite sprawling and ever changing, making it hard to pin down any one point as memorable, save for perhaps the high pitched sparkly synth cascading all over the place that appears just as the song ends.
    The album ends on a slightly optimistic note, although an admittedly abrupt one, with “Quicksand” bouncing with hard slapping percussion, with hazy storms swirling back and forth, confessing, amongst other things, that “when we’re broken we are whole” before just stopping.
    All in all this marks an interes
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  54. Jan 27, 2015
    10
    Björk's Vulnicura is in some aspects a revisit to her most acclaimed works (Homogenic/Vespertine), she arranged strings again (yes!) and created some of the most interesting beats in her career. At the same time, this album is something completely new, refreshing, beautiful and of course, heartbreaking. The rawness of her lyrics and vocals is what remains after several listens and theBjörk's Vulnicura is in some aspects a revisit to her most acclaimed works (Homogenic/Vespertine), she arranged strings again (yes!) and created some of the most interesting beats in her career. At the same time, this album is something completely new, refreshing, beautiful and of course, heartbreaking. The rawness of her lyrics and vocals is what remains after several listens and the unavoidable sensation that Vulnicura is not only Björk's new album, is one of the few really important albums nowadays. Expand
  55. Jan 26, 2015
    9
    Not all songs here are immediately catchy on first listen. Most are slow burners and you only really "get" the melodies after a few listens. Still, I could personally do without the last 2 songs as the rest of the material is just ace.

    On another note, it's a shame that a half arsed review like the one from "The Independent UK" is allowed to bring down the overall score. That review is
    Not all songs here are immediately catchy on first listen. Most are slow burners and you only really "get" the melodies after a few listens. Still, I could personally do without the last 2 songs as the rest of the material is just ace.

    On another note, it's a shame that a half arsed review like the one from "The Independent UK" is allowed to bring down the overall score. That review is barely a decent sized paragraph.
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  56. Jan 26, 2015
    10
    Björk always surprises us. After Biophilia, a grand project involving the universe we live in she makes us embark on a journey through the very deepest of her soul on Vulnicura, which may be her best record to date.
    The first time I listened to this album, I could hardly bear it. She described this as a complete heartbreak album, and how true it is. Most of the artists, when they go
    Björk always surprises us. After Biophilia, a grand project involving the universe we live in she makes us embark on a journey through the very deepest of her soul on Vulnicura, which may be her best record to date.
    The first time I listened to this album, I could hardly bear it. She described this as a complete heartbreak album, and how true it is. Most of the artists, when they go through a breakup, write a piano ballad about it with beautiful melodies and ease to digest. But not Björk.
    Her album travels through their breakup like a diary. Starting off bitterly, it goes to the emptiness of one's soul on the 10-minute track 'Black Lake'. We witness the slow recoveration process, the sadness of 'Family', the anger of 'Notget'. In the end, we finally get to the start of the healing process, feeling our own hearts shattered.
    The dominant instruments of the album are strings. Never were they so mature and innovative as here. The lyrics try to describe the feelings of the heart during the process, but it's in the music that we can truly understand what this means. On 'Black Lake', a single note is held for 30 seconds several times, and it hurts us so much. But Björk's heart is magical. Her music sucks us in and makes us experience the horror she had experienced. And when we finish listening, we cannot feel happy. It sticks to us like the memory sticks to her.
    'Vulnicura' is an extraordinary experience. The human feelings have never been experienced in this manner.
    It's an instant classic.
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  57. Jan 25, 2015
    10
    Björk has a way of making her music gently caress you with a lulling nightingale or viciously slaughter you with a volcanic eruption. The stark spectrum stresses the importance of musicians such as this Icelandic goddess. On her most heart-wrenching release to date, Vulnicura is Björk's return to form. Long gone are the twitchy, biologically-charged blips of Biophilia and the wonky anticsBjörk has a way of making her music gently caress you with a lulling nightingale or viciously slaughter you with a volcanic eruption. The stark spectrum stresses the importance of musicians such as this Icelandic goddess. On her most heart-wrenching release to date, Vulnicura is Björk's return to form. Long gone are the twitchy, biologically-charged blips of Biophilia and the wonky antics of Volta. Vulnicura harkens back to the high level of intensity exhibited on earlier records.

    In an interview with Pitchfork, Björk confessed that this album was "the most painful thing [she] ever experienced in [her] life". After her tragic separation from long-time partner Matthew Barney, Björk was at an all-time low. Going through lyrics of her older songs, it's easy to recognize the loving nature that Björk tried to create within herself. Her childlike innocence complicatedly meshed with a strange sexuality made her music something unique. On Vulnicura, the happy-go-lucky attitude has vanished completely. Björk's abundance of string arrangements and tear-inducing lyrics paint a very sad picture. Her heartbreak is bitterly expressed with the help of collaborators Arca and The Haxan Cloak who act as her students in the art of creating intensely emotional music.

    The album starts with the sweeping strings of "Stonemilker", a deeply visual beginning to an album (just from the title alone). How does one milk a stone? Well, it isn't possible but Björk is trying her best. Just as she is unable to reconstruct her love affair, she cannot get the milk from her stone. On "Lionsong", Björk wonders if her ex-partner will come back to her. In her bare lyrics, "Maybe he will come out this/ Maybe he won't/ Somehow I'm not too bothered either way", a comfortable numbness sweeps over Björk like an inescapable straightjacket surrounded by vocal outbursts and electronic beats. "A History of Touches" tries to rebuild some happier memories with its glitchy instrumentals and expressions of sexual healing through the eyes of a devastated woman. "Black Lake", one of the longest songs in Björk's discography, continues the lyrical trend of the other songs. By this song, the lyrics have grown darker and more barren into such phrases as, "My soul torn apart/ My spirit is broken/ Into the fabric of all/ He is woven". The relationship between the two individuals was a fragile entity, brutally torn apart until nothing but a gaping wound is left. "Family" is the centrepiece of Vulnicura and it hits a level of desolation very few songs manage to accomplish. On it, Björk mourns the loss of her broken family with the sharp and painful lyrics of, "Is there a place/ Where I can pay respects/ For the death of my family". The song, accompanied by these unruly lyrics, grows in a crescendo of elaborate orchestral flairs that result in an atmospheric battleground of loneliness. "Notget" is the turning point of the album in which Björk brushes off the battle scars and explodes into a fiery force of love. She will not let this break-up get the best of her and will continue to protect her daughter and keep her life is working condition. Her overwhelming lyrical stature is placed atop a interstellar overdrive of experimental wonder. "Atom Dance" continues the journey of healing with a beautiful depiction of remembering the good times. Björk does not seem as scared and alone in her lyrical tone and, with the help of Antony Hegarty's voice, progresses towards a brighter avenue. Embracing the pain, Björk sings, "Let this ugly wound breathe/ We fear unconditional heart space/ Healed by atom dance". "Mouth Mantra" lists one of the potential causes for Björk's unfixable love. Her partner's authoritative commands took control of Björk's life and could no longer be handled. On the album's finale, "Quicksand", the exposed wound is slowly repairing itself. Björk changes focus by singing about the love of her mother and reciprocating it to her daughter. Her love may be gone, but the importance of family has never gone away. She philosophically expresses, "When we're broken we are whole/ And when we're whole we're broken".

    The music of Björk is often known for being universal and spanning a wide variety of subjects. On Vulnicura, it is a home-grown torture that engulfs the tone of the album. This very personal piece of art is a permanent fixture that results in a progression towards the healing of a broken singer. The word "vulnicura" translates into "the healing of wounds", so in a way, the album itself is a big band-aid that is protecting the severe trauma that has been endured.
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  58. Jan 25, 2015
    10
    Absolutely stunning! How can something so heartbreaking and harsh be so beautiful at the same time? This album is truly a magnificent experience, both sonically and visually. In Vulnicura, we get to see a very vulnerable and honest Björk, something we haven't seen probably since Vespertine. Vulnicura is a marvelous return to form, but at the same time something completely new. My earsAbsolutely stunning! How can something so heartbreaking and harsh be so beautiful at the same time? This album is truly a magnificent experience, both sonically and visually. In Vulnicura, we get to see a very vulnerable and honest Björk, something we haven't seen probably since Vespertine. Vulnicura is a marvelous return to form, but at the same time something completely new. My ears cannot get enough of this album! Brilliant, powerful, and simply beautiful! Great job, Björk! And thank you for sharing such a personal aspect of your life with us. Expand
  59. Jan 25, 2015
    10
    her best work in years. the most straightforward, honest, emotional. beautiful arrangements accompanying nuanced, sometimes restrained, vocals. immediate, accesible, universal and profoundly personal at the same time. great album !!
  60. Jan 25, 2015
    10
    It's a magnificent work of art. After a long period of philosophical albums, she comes back with the most human-centered album of her career. The lyrics in Vulnicura are not exquisite and the song meanings are direct, which is weird for Bjork but in this case beautiful. Beautiful because when you feel lost in emotional drifts you need to grasp from somewhere solid.
  61. Jan 25, 2015
    10
    Amazing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Amazing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Expand
  62. Jan 25, 2015
    9
    It's been incredible following Bjork's musical journey from Debut until now. One thing that's evident is that Bjork is always pushing her boundaries, taking her music in new directions, and Vulnicura is no exception. The music is quite complex, with unorthodox song structures, intricate melodies, and an interesting blend of strings and electronic beats that is reminiscent of Homogenic, butIt's been incredible following Bjork's musical journey from Debut until now. One thing that's evident is that Bjork is always pushing her boundaries, taking her music in new directions, and Vulnicura is no exception. The music is quite complex, with unorthodox song structures, intricate melodies, and an interesting blend of strings and electronic beats that is reminiscent of Homogenic, but in many ways is entirely new territory for her.

    I have to admit, this album was not easy to digest. I had to listen to it about 5 times before I felt comfortable reviewing it. The music is certainly not immediately accessible, but there is something intriguing about it that has kept me listening over and over. And the more I listen, the more I like it. It is probably her most cohesive album, and the way the songs flow so nicely into each other while still sounding varied makes it quite satisfying.
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  63. Jan 24, 2015
    9
    Some are calling it a return to form, I myself wouldn't like to call it anything of the sort, since for Bjork there is not a definite 'form'; each album is experimentally different, and brilliant for it.
    For the most part, Vulnicura has a little bit of a Homogenic or Vespertine sound about it, but it's entirely it's own thing, and what is is is a very desperate and saddening thing.
    Some are calling it a return to form, I myself wouldn't like to call it anything of the sort, since for Bjork there is not a definite 'form'; each album is experimentally different, and brilliant for it.
    For the most part, Vulnicura has a little bit of a Homogenic or Vespertine sound about it, but it's entirely it's own thing, and what is is is a very desperate and saddening thing. Bjork's 'heartbreak' album spreads out with some of the longest tracks she's ever done. Less emotional moments are few on this subtler comeback to 2011's Biophilia, and simultaneously more can be connected with emotionally, and understood with on this effort. Bjork, in my opinion, has Bettered all the albums since Vespertine put together.
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  64. Jan 22, 2015
    9
    Vulnicura is Björk's most earnest effort. It manages to define something as universal as heartbreak with Björk's own unique sound and the result is beautiful. Ethereal-sounding strings mix perfectly with industrial beats produced by Arca and Björk herself. The lyrics are equally impressive: it's blunt and very confessional. Björk is back and her sound is more powerful than ever...
  65. Jan 22, 2015
    10
    Vulnicura is pure magic and one of the best albums of Björk, the dark elements that Arca and Haxan Cloak produced for the album perfectly match the melodies.
  66. Jan 22, 2015
    10
    Vulnicura = cure for wounds

    The sound and the lyrics are uno.. There's a dark feeling running through all that singing and sound... something like **** it, I'm crying, let me cry, it will heal after".. It's a confession...and it's the most sad one that Bjork brought. This album is the opposite of Vespertine... Vespertine: beggining of Love - Vulnicura: the end of love. Bjork shared
    Vulnicura = cure for wounds

    The sound and the lyrics are uno.. There's a dark feeling running through all that singing and sound... something like **** it, I'm crying, let me cry, it will heal after".. It's a confession...and it's the most sad one that Bjork brought. This album is the opposite of Vespertine... Vespertine: beggining of Love - Vulnicura: the end of love.
    Bjork shared with us her intimacy... and I want to thank her for let me in...
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  67. Jan 22, 2015
    10
    Having followed Bjork's career since her seminal "Debut" album in 1993, it's been a fantastic journey to travel along with her as her sound has expanded and changed throughout her albums. She remains a fantastic storyteller and sonic creator, unparalleled in her perseverance to maintain her vision, which again is layered differently in this album. Interestingly this is a step forward fromHaving followed Bjork's career since her seminal "Debut" album in 1993, it's been a fantastic journey to travel along with her as her sound has expanded and changed throughout her albums. She remains a fantastic storyteller and sonic creator, unparalleled in her perseverance to maintain her vision, which again is layered differently in this album. Interestingly this is a step forward from the universal sounds from Biophilia, towards a more inwards sound and attitude that is reminiscent of Vespertine, but with the musical lessons and layers that came from the albums released since that fantastic album. It's a rewarding album upon continuous listens, one that always has some detail to reveal. Fantastic! Expand
  68. Jan 22, 2015
    10
    Containing elements of her best albums such as the string filled Homogenic with small fragments here and there of Post and Medúlla while maintaining the sensuality which is seen in what is arguably her best album Vespertine, Björk gives us an album containing a wide array of emotional undertones which is mainly heartbreak for which she consistently maintains throughout the album thereforeContaining elements of her best albums such as the string filled Homogenic with small fragments here and there of Post and Medúlla while maintaining the sensuality which is seen in what is arguably her best album Vespertine, Björk gives us an album containing a wide array of emotional undertones which is mainly heartbreak for which she consistently maintains throughout the album therefore proving to us that "Vulnicura" a soft and delicate piece is one of Björks best releases since around Vespertine. Expand
  69. Jan 21, 2015
    9
    It's way too early to give a score to this album, but due to the emotional depth of it, I think this is a clear winner in terms of approaching a break-up. Not a pop record indeed, Björk took us by surprise with a very intimate album that relies on her soaring vocals, Arca's beats and strings everywhere. The development is simple, the feeling is universal (for those who have been or are inIt's way too early to give a score to this album, but due to the emotional depth of it, I think this is a clear winner in terms of approaching a break-up. Not a pop record indeed, Björk took us by surprise with a very intimate album that relies on her soaring vocals, Arca's beats and strings everywhere. The development is simple, the feeling is universal (for those who have been or are in this situation), and Björk's brave decision to share these hard moments with us is something I just can applaud and be thankful for. Expand
  70. Jan 21, 2015
    10
    Out of the sorrow, into the light - Heckle the darkness.This legendary songwriter takes the armour she left out after Homogenic to regain her own identity, sexuality, motherhood, femininity. This surreal voyage, shrouded in eroticism, raw passion and emotions so hard they are nearly unbearable, is surely meant to not be an easy album to digest. Nonetheless, its extremely human qualitiesOut of the sorrow, into the light - Heckle the darkness.This legendary songwriter takes the armour she left out after Homogenic to regain her own identity, sexuality, motherhood, femininity. This surreal voyage, shrouded in eroticism, raw passion and emotions so hard they are nearly unbearable, is surely meant to not be an easy album to digest. Nonetheless, its extremely human qualities make it feel like it wasn't written by one of the most recognized artist of our time - rather by a fragile, mature, normal woman, shouting in your ears how much love hurts, in the most elegant way. An extraordinary experience. Expand
  71. Jan 21, 2015
    10
    Beautiful and deep.
    I don't know what to say more about this album.
    Björk is fantastic!
    A great return.
    A big album.
    Congratulations, Björk!
    You're a special artist.
  72. Jan 21, 2015
    8
    This is a relationship breakup album, infused with heartache, and will surely reduce some to tears. I was taken aback by how emotional this record is at its high points, and there are some wonderful if utterly dark highs, which makes the more abstract and distancing parts something of a frustration.
    For me the haunting epic ‘Black Lake’ is the album’s centrepiece, a stunningly emotional
    This is a relationship breakup album, infused with heartache, and will surely reduce some to tears. I was taken aback by how emotional this record is at its high points, and there are some wonderful if utterly dark highs, which makes the more abstract and distancing parts something of a frustration.
    For me the haunting epic ‘Black Lake’ is the album’s centrepiece, a stunningly emotional albeit grimly sad experience.
    After the emotional torment which peaks on Black Lake, I really wanted a ‘good ending’ but of course with Bjork you can’t expect anything and the final couple of tracks didn’t engage in the way that the rest of the album does.
    Overall, this is a powerful, melancholic, and beautiful record and anyone who loves Bjork and wants to experience the next step in her journey will find an astonishingly heartfelt and personal record.
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  73. Jan 21, 2015
    10
    If Louis and I ever split up (heaven forbid), this will be the album to help get through it. B has done it again.

    #BuyVulnicuraOnItunes plzzzzzzzzz
  74. Jan 21, 2015
    10
    It seems the dark side of Vespertine: the end of the relationship started there. Incredible work with the chords and beats... There's a dark ambiance in the voice, in the sound...
    I wasn't waiting something that darker from Bjork, but it's just working in a such good way!
    It's her best work since Verspertine, and that's kind of funny, because , for me, it's the dark side of
    It seems the dark side of Vespertine: the end of the relationship started there. Incredible work with the chords and beats... There's a dark ambiance in the voice, in the sound...
    I wasn't waiting something that darker from Bjork, but it's just working in a such good way!
    It's her best work since Verspertine, and that's kind of funny, because , for me, it's the dark side of "domestica"-"relationship" that Vespertine didn't told us, but could be part of all relationships.. 9,5/10 (sometimes her heavy accent make it weird)
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  75. Jan 20, 2015
    10
    Björk is God! I'm impressed with this album. I cannot hear without holding my tears, beacuse this is so beautiful, these compositions are amazing. Not to mention the production of Arca which is spotless and more than powerful. ♥
  76. Jan 20, 2015
    10
    And finally Björk is with us again! I'm feeling blessed, just it.

    Here is she with "Vulnicura", a cure of a wound that she had with Matthew... It was sad, but she took it and did songs so amazing and powerful. Her voice could not sound more deep, beautiful and unique while she expresses her pain and disgusts about a love that now is lost. Arca and The Haxan Cloak gave to her some
    And finally Björk is with us again! I'm feeling blessed, just it.

    Here is she with "Vulnicura", a cure of a wound that she had with Matthew... It was sad, but she took it and did songs so amazing and powerful. Her voice could not sound more deep, beautiful and unique while she expresses her pain and disgusts about a love that now is lost.

    Arca and The Haxan Cloak gave to her some exceptional beats on the production, something dark, emotional and classic. It can sound new and old at the same time... It can sound like "Vespertine", so heavenly and pretty.

    Been awhile I haven't seen Björk doing something so personal like this album... I'm in love.

    Favorite tracks: "Stonemilker" and "Black Lake".
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Metascore
87

Universal acclaim - based on 40 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 38 out of 40
  2. Negative: 0 out of 40
  1. Apr 3, 2015
    80
    One of the most remarkable albums of an inimitable career.
  2. Mojo
    Mar 19, 2015
    80
    Despite their meticulous craft, these songs don't feel like curated artefacts--they feel raw, unquiet, still moving. Vulnicura might tell an old story, but it still feels new. [Apr 2015, p.87]
  3. Magnet
    Mar 12, 2015
    90
    There's a candor here that hasn't always touched the Icelandic singer/composer's electro-dreamscape output. [No. 118, p.52]