Bjork - Hidden Place (European & American versions)
(One Little Indian)
In classic "keep the true fans on their toes" behavior, Bjork releases the same song, although totally different versions of it, with different companion tracks, on either side of the pond.
The US version of this single features the title track as it appears on the full LP Vespertine, along with "Generous Palmstroke" and "Verandi." The UK version features a totally different take on "Hidden Place" along side the tracks "Mother Heroic" and "Foot Soldier."
Overall, both CDs fall into Bjork's new musical facade of cut up beats, music box arrangements, 1930s Hollywood sounding strings, and delicate/violent harp playing by the formidable Zenna Parkins. All that and a choir too.
On these singles and the new album, Bjork's music is definitely more delicate than previous outings. Bjork's work has always existed in a fantasy land, and it seems that she has found a new world to exist in, one that is quieter and more interested in lulling us to sleep in her motherly grasp. Unfortunately both of these singles suffer from the B-side syndrome, not to say they aren't good, but only must-haves for tried and true Bjork fans. If you're new to the queen of Iceland I would say jump right into Vespertine, as it's a perfect stating place.
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