Crystalline will probably go down as one of Bjork’s classics. For the most part of the song, it’s pretty much Bjork accompanied by xylophones tingling in the background and beats would appear here and there. It’s very minimalist in some way, so one would think that the whole song will be just like that, however that’s just the calm before the storm. The ending, while short, is very dynamic and chaotic compared to the first part. There is something beautiful regarding the contrasting nature between Bjork’s vocals and the thunderous instrumentation in the background, it’s just something hard to describe. Though, one thing is for sure, when that part comes on my earphone I almost always have to stop everything I do and I guess… just take that moment in.
Stats:
Weeks: 09 Weeks still charting on the weekly countdown
Debut: #08
Peak: #01 for 01 Week
Previous End of the Year appearances:
2009: #19 All the World is Mad
2010: #24 In Exile
When it comes to lyrics, Thrice is one of those artists who really put a lot of effort and thought into crafting them and Promises is no exception. It pretty much echoes with what is happening with marriage situations right now, though I think that the lyrics transcend beyond questioning the institution of marriage/love. Though, to put it simply, it’s about how people makes promises that they can’t keep. Also, the chorus of this song makes me feel nostalgic, there’s just something about the melody that reminds me of something. I also love how the final chorus is stripped down then the band comes in to conclude the song.
Previous End of the Year appearances:
2009: #08 Fallin' For You
2010: #19 Fearless
Her first single, unfortunately, didn’t do for me unlike her previous lead singles (Fallin’ For You and Bubbly). However upon hearing the second single for the first time, it was an instant hit…at least for me. The sound is so relaxing and refreshing, it’s pretty much a feel good summer song. For me, this is definitely her best single to date. I also love how the Caribbean sound makes an appearance at the end of the song, everytime that part of the song comes on I always envision myself somewhere in the tropics and watching the folks doing the conga.
