Björk – Bastards

I really do love this remix album, in fact, it's one my very favourite things Björk has ever put together. The list of remixers is simply outstanding. The original Biophilia album, while a little strange in its skeletal arrangements and vast experimentalism, exhibited very strong underlying song-writing.

Every single remix in the entire Biophilia Remix Series project has an honest sense of artistry. The two Omar Souleyman versions are exciting, open-ended explorations in Arabian electronic dance music, combining Björk vocal excerpts with that of his own to create an interesting interplay.

Hudson Mohawke's remix of Virus is by far the most melodic and strangely uplifting track. A very refreshing and positive addition to the album.

A Death Grips and Björk crossover really does exist (!!), and it's awesome. Their remix of Sacrifice is really just a mashup of the song with one of the earliest Death Grips tracks, 'Full Moon (Death Classic)', also featuring the synthesised bass from 'System Blower'. It does the job quite well though, bringing an erratic new energy. Their Thunderbolt remix is a standout from the album, with the genius vocal manipulations at the beginning and throughout, combined with new electrifying percussion and the rising synth bass perhaps taken from 'Hustle Bones'.

Matthew Herbert appears to be one of Björk's favourite collaborators considering his lengthy association, and his work here is more on the deeper, meditative side, amplifying the emotions Björk poured into the original songs.

These New Puritans' remix of Mutual Core is a surprisingly emotive reimagining. It quite intelligently uses music and space to tell a story.

16-Bit are legends of the (more respected) classic dubstep sound. Their remix of Hollow stays true to the alienating, discordant sound of the original, if anything, adding to a greater sense of despair.

Alva Noto reshapes Dark Matter into another deep, textured piece of sound art.

Current Value's sound during this time of his career was simply marvellous, and across the entire Biophilia Remix Series he produced four crushing remixes - Thunderbolt being my favourite. His remix of Solstice was a good pick for inclusion, from its stunning opening to when it reveals itself to be the most sonically intense track on Bastards.

The Slips' remix of Moon returns to lighter whimsy, in the same vein as Hudson Mohawke's remix. The album ends on a surprisingly disappointing note with Matthew Herbert's remix of Crystalline, which is the only track here I don't like.

Overall, the Biophilia Remix Series is an excellent collection of avant-garde electronic versions of strong Björk songs. The remixers are all exceptional and they (almost) all delivered. The only nitpick I would have is to replace the last track with something more enjoyable - my pick going to the Current Value remix of Thunderbolt.

The vinyl pressing quality is not bad, but it's nothing great. There is a noticeable difference in quality when comparing tracks on this 2LP to the individual 12" releases that play at 45RPM and sound fantastic.

I bought this record because I had listened to and loved Biophilia, and I'm so glad that I did. It sounds unbelievably good! The sound is so rich and powerful, especially for a 33 and 1/3 rpm pressing. There is no surface noise besides the occasional minor pop now and then. The remixes I found to almost all be super well executed. My second disc had some edge warp, but it doesn't effect play.

The remixes are interesting - some better than others for sure. But what is consistent is the quality of this pressing. There's absolutely no surface noise and the tracks sound amazing. Very happy with this pressing!

This is a really strong album and the remixes are engaging and compelling. Björk's remix albums are always enjoyable - "Telegram" is a good comparison if you've heard it - and the selection of artists here is particularly excellent. Best tracks: "Sacrifice" (Death Grips Remix) "Mutual Core" (These New Puritans Remix featuring Solomon Islands Song) and "Crystalline" (Omar Souleyman Version).
As much as I enjoyed the album, it's not very well pressed. The sound quality is mediocre at best and abysmal at worst. Björk's vocals sound unnaturally strained and some of the instruments feel suppressed.
Overall, it's a good item for Björk fans and collectors, but not a great entry into her music or even her music on vinyl.