Björk's ninth album, titled Utopia, fruitfully explores a narrative of hopeful idealism, with her seemingly commanding a new transhuman plan of action for herself and society. The Icelandic musician's latest recital "The Gate" feels calmer, consolidated, and more self-reflective than the rawer Vulnicura, although still governed by the intricate spiderweb of interlinking concepts that feels so wonderfully intersectional about her music. "The Gate" video which premiered with NOWNESS at the Store Studios in London this past weekend sees state of the art, mind-blowing visuals directed by long time collaborator Andrew Thomas Huang (responsible for bringing Björk Digital exhibition at Somerset House to life with unforgettably striking immersive content). An iridescently dressed Björk (thanks to Alessandro Michele, Gucci) occupies an intuitive world where CGI and tech lives alongside her in alternative reality; she thrives amidst billowing plumes and fountains of light that equally complement the music and stir thought.
“The Gate’ is essentially a love song, but I say ‘love’ in a more transcendent way. Vulnicura was about a very personal loss, and I think this new album is about a love that’s even greater. It’s about rediscovering love – but in a spiritual way, for lack of a better word.” – Björk
