Of all the multimedia tendrils that have snaked out of Björk’s album, app, installation and performance project Biophilia, this record of the tour’s last performance in London is arguably the most conventional offshoot, even if it has additional trippy visuals.
That said, this is an impeccably packaged entry to the Biophilia experience, showcasing the musical heart of the concept with spirited, millimetre-precise performances from Björk, her backing all-female choir and a handful of multitasking musicians.
The whole lot manage to make a huge, often-beautiful sound with a mixture of traditional and electronic instruments. Even if you’re not mad about the tunes, the light show and interwoven footage of astral bodies, dancing microbes and pulsing starfish is alone worth the price of admission, as is Björk’s fabulously barmy frock, which looks like it was woven from mushroom gills and fairy dust. The presence of Peter Strickland (Berberian Sound Studio) as co-director may seem odd at first, but when you see his fabulous, lepidoptera-themed next film The Duke of Burgundy, it will all make sense.
Fabric can be a bit dark and a bit industrial, both of which are not my scene. However, even I have to admit that the combination of house, techno, electro, disco, dub-techno drum & bass that they are capable of producing is among the world’s best. While I’ve only ever hit Fabric a couple of times, the experience lives on forever in my list of top clubbing memories.
If you can brave the queue, which is often quite long, then Fabric will surely delight the most experienced clubber. The venue is truly massive compared to most London clubs, and the music is not your typical commercial mix but a much more heavy blend of tech-house, techno, dubstep, D&B. If that’s not your usual jam you may want to consider some alternative nightlife options but if you’re a fan then Fabric has you covered. I once tried to slip the DJ a 50 pound note on the condition that he played some Venga Boys, but he refused – which I take as a sign that the musical integrity of Fabric is quite solid!
Many reviews online criticize the security staff at Fabric but as far as I saw on my visits they were professional and did their job well. Trying to keep a huge crowd of drunk party people in line is never easy and who could say that they could do a better job? As long as you’re not an idiot or do something mad you’ll be fine. Try and get there early to beat the queue so you can maximize your party time and enjoy Fabric’s awesome tunes.
