Erin Vierra September 12th, 2018 - 7:29 PM
Medulla, which derives from the Latin word for “marrow,” is Icelandic recording artist Bjork’s fifth studio album. It was released back in 2004 on August 30th and received two Grammy award nominations. With her last album, Vespertine, which was released in 2001, being electronic influenced, Bjork wanted to step away from that style. With Medulla, she wanted an album to be almost entirely a cappella and constructed with human vocals. The idea, though unique was very much what Bjork is known for. In the album, she collaborated with beatboxers Rahzel and Dokkaka, Inuit throat singer Tanya Tadaq as well as the lead singer of Faith No More, an American rock band, Mike Patton.
A fan account for Patton via Instagram, posted a behind the scenes video of the Bjork, and Patton as they worked in the studio as they recorded Medulla. The footage was part of a DVD documentary called “The Inner or Deep Part of an Animal or Plant Structure” which features the recording footage. The documentary was also released on August 31st, the day after Medulla was released.
The post features five little videos of the creative process behind the album. Bjork is seen sitting outside talking about the album but mostly expressing her feelings for Patton. “And of course I wanted it to be a bit of rock, let’s not forget that and Mike Patton sort of represents that rock part.”
Patton’s collaborations on the album come during Medulla’s third track, “Where is the Line.” Patton contributes demonic vocals which can be heard in the video posted on Instagram.
After her words, it comes an intimate look inside the studio and viewers catch glimpses of Patton vocalizing over Bjork’s music as well Bjork giving Patton suggestions while listening to the song. For fans of both artists, it is a remarkable feeling of being inside what looks like an interesting studio experience. Like a fly on the wall, one feels like part of the process no matter if you are are a fan or, if you are a fan of music, this video should be viewed.
