Grinding skeptics into the soil

Okay, panic over.

Life has returned to some kind of normality.

So let's have no more private life invasions on here and get on with some great music. Which tonight i have for you in the shape of everybodies favourite Icelandic songstress, Bjork. Now, I had a soft spot for Bjork before Glastonbury but having seen that performance, I can honestly say she has grown even further in my estimation. And just so you can get an idea of how good she is live, here are three songs recorded live on Later With Jools Holland.

All three are from her most recent album 'Volta' and feature a full brass section which just adds so much to each song. Now I'm sure you're all familiar with 'Earth Intruders' and it's stomping might but here with added footsteps, it sounds so earthy and organic. Like an army advancing on your ears. The drumming is almost primitive in it's tribal insistence, taking centre stage amongst whooshes of electronica and the idisyncratic vocals of Bjork.

'The Anchor Song' on the other hand is a much more withdrawn affair. Subtle and introspective, it also has the feel of a northern brass band. Bjork trades lines with the brass, each taking their turn to dance around the other building up a gorgeous melancholy atmosphere.

And finally, 'Declare Independence' is a track that Bjork described as her attempt at a rave track. And while it doesn't wholly fulfil that premise, it is a full on banging affair with a positive affirming message.

Bjork - earth intruders (live on Later With Jools Holland)

Bjork - the anchor song (live on Later With Jools Holland)

Bjork - declare independence (live on Later With Jools Holland)

mp3 / music / bjork / later with jools holland