Björk

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Hyper-ballad album cover

Hyper-ballad

Björk

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
We live on a mountain right at the top
There's a beautiful view from the top of the mountain
Every morning I walk towards the edge
And throw little things off
Like car parts, bottles, and cutlery
Or whatever I find lying around

[Pre-Chorus 1]
It's become a habit
A way to start the day

[Chorus]
I go through all this before you wake up
So I can feel happier to be safe up here with you
I go through all this before you wake up
So I can feel happier to be safe up here with you

[Verse 2]
It's early morning, no one is awake
I'm back at my cliff, still throwing things off
I listen to the sounds they make on their way down
I follow with my eyes till they crash
I imagine what my body would sound like
Slamming against those rocks
[Pre-Chorus 2]
And when it lands
Will my eyes be closed or open?

[Chorus]
I go through all this before you wake up
So I can feel happier to be safe up here with you
I go through all this before you wake up
So I can feel happier to be safe up here with you
I go through all this before you wake up
So I can feel happier to be safe up here with you

[Post-Chorus]
Safe up here with you
Safe up here with you
Safe up here with you
Safe up here with you
Safe up here with you
Safe up here with you
Safe up here with you
Safe up here with you

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If you're looking for a song that perfectly encapsulates the ethereal and unique sound of Björk, then look no further than "Hyper-ballad." Released as the fourth single off her 1995 album "Post," this track has become a firm fan favorite over the years. In fact, when it came to choosing the songs for her 2002 "Greatest Hits" album, "Hyper-ballad" received the most votes from Björk's dedicated fanbase. It's not just the fans who recognize the brilliance of this song, as influential music publication Pitchfork Media included it in their list of the Top 200 Tracks of the 90s, ranking it at an impressive number 11. So let's dive into the captivating world of "Hyper-ballad" and discover what makes it such a standout piece of Björk's discography.

...

About Hyper-ballad

"Hyper-ballad" is a beautifully layered composition that combines electronic elements with Björk's mesmerizing vocals to create a truly immersive sonic experience. The song starts with subtle, haunting synths and a minimalistic beat, setting the tone for introspection and contemplation. Björk's voice enters the scene, soaring effortlessly over the atmospheric soundscape, conveying a sense of vulnerability and raw emotion. Lyrically, "Hyper-ballad" is a poetic exploration of love, fear, and the human need for self-discovery. Björk's introspective lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman standing on a cliff, throwing objects over the edge as a metaphor for letting go of past experiences. She sings of the exhilaration and release that comes from this act, finding solace in the ritual of purging her emotions. The lyrics touch upon the contradictions and complexities of human relationships, highlighting the bittersweet nature of love. One of the key strengths of "Hyper-ballad" is Björk's ability to blend various musical genres without sacrificing cohesion. The song seamlessly combines elements of electronic music with more traditional pop structures, resulting in a unique sonic landscape that is both familiar and experimental. Björk's distinct vocal style, with its wide range and emotive delivery, adds an extra layer of depth to the composition, bringing the lyrics to life. The production on "Hyper-ballad" is a testament to Björk's visionary approach to music-making. The track features an array of innovative production techniques, such as glitchy beats, glitchy beats, atmospheric textures, and subtle sonic details. These elements create a rich and dynamic sonic tapestry that captures the listener's attention from start to finish. The carefully crafted sonic palette allows the song to evolve and unfold in unexpected ways, keeping the listener engaged throughout. One of the standout moments in "Hyper-ballad" is the way Björk's voice effortlessly navigates the intricate melodies and vocal runs present in the song. Her vocals showcase both power and vulnerability as they glide over the instrumentation, creating a mesmerizing blend of emotion and technical prowess. It's a testament to Björk's exceptional vocal ability and the level of passion she brings to her performances. In terms of critical acclaim, "Hyper-ballad" has rightfully earned its place as one of Björk's most celebrated tracks. Pitchfork Media's inclusion of the song in their list of the Top 200 Tracks of the 90s speaks volumes about its enduring appeal. Coming in at number 11, "Hyper-ballad" is recognized as a masterpiece of the era, highlighting Björk's innovative approach to music and her ability to create deeply moving and thought-provoking compositions. In essence, "Hyper-ballad" is a musical journey that takes listeners on a rollercoaster of emotions. It's a song that seamlessly combines Björk's unique vocal style with innovative production techniques to create a sonic landscape that is as captivating as it is introspective. With its poetic lyrics and evocative melodies, this track stands as a testament to Björk's artistic genius and her ability to push the boundaries of music. "Hyper-ballad" is not just a song, it's an experience.

  • Release Date: February 12, 1996
  • Artist: Björk