For many fans, Björk is a beloved and iconic figure in the music industry. Her discography spans over three decades and includes a wide range of styles, from pop to acappella to electronic music. Björk's 10th studio album, "Fossora," is themed around the concept of death and grief. 

The album takes these themes and explores them through the lens of biology and growth, resulting in a unique and thought-provoking listening experience. In fact, Björk has referred to "Fossora" as her "mushroom album," due to the presence of song titles like "Mycelium" and "Fungal City."

Themes of "Fossora"

"Fossora" was created in the wake of Björk's mother's passing in 2018, an event that heavily influenced the themes and emotions present on the album. Tracks like "Sorrowful Soil" and "Ancestress" address this loss directly, with "Ancestress" in particular exploring the complex relationship between a mother and daughter. 

The album also touches on the concept of the "unclassifiable other," as seen in the lyrics of the first single and opener, "Atopos." This song, with its steady clip of bass clarinet honks and eventual devolution into a punchy gabber beat, brings together themes of nature and technology in a way that is both intriguing and thought-provoking.

Sound and Influences of "Fossora"

The sound of "Fossora" is a unique blend of classical instrumentation and electronic beats, with influences from Indonesian hardcore duo Gabber Modus Operandi. This combination creates a sense of tension within the album, but it is also what makes it stand out. The title track, "Fossora," is particularly noteworthy for its brain-melting quality, with its blend of classical instrumentation and electronic beats. 

The Album

The album as a whole could be seen as a timely call to action for listeners to embrace their emotions and let go. One of the most striking aspects of it is the contrast between the beauty of the classical instrumentation and the electronic beats that run throughout the album. This tension is evident on tracks like the title track, "Fossora," which is perhaps the most brain-melting song on the album. 

Conclusion

Björk is known for her dedication to creating meaningful and cohesive projects. "Fossora" is no exception, and fans of the artist will appreciate the care and emotional labor put into its creation. In an industry that often prioritizes speed over quality, Björk's approach is refreshing and valuable. It is this approach that ultimately gives "Fossora" its unique and memorable sound.