3 Experimental Albums That Turn the Human Voice Into an Entire Band

Classic rock has the electric guitar. Country music has the fiddle. But what genres boast the voice, above all else, as the main instrument? Some could say rap music is built around the spoken word, but few genres are closely associated with using the voice as a musical instrument. The following three experimental albums are great examples of what can be done with the human voice, and they defy genres entirely. Let’s take a look, shall we?

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‘Medúlla’ by Björk

This one is a personal favorite, though it is sorely underrated among Björk fans. Medúlla, released in 2004, was the Icelandic icon’s attempt at using the human voice as a musical instrument, as well as looking back at ancient forms of music. Despite looking back, Björk managed to create something uniquely modern with this a cappella avant-garde record. It’s the kind of experimental album that you need to have patience with. It’ll grow on you.

‘Circlesongs’ by Bobby McFerrin

Bobby McFerrin is an interesting entry on an otherwise somewhat odd list of experimental albums. You might know this crooner best by his megahit “Don’t Worry, Be Happy”. McFerrin decided to do something a little different with Circlesongs, released in 1997. This album is a vocal jazz-focused album. And it’s clear that McFerrin himself is proud of this work, as he toured with his own ensemble, the Voicestra, over 20 years later to perform songs from this unique record. 

The album’s title references a technique of improv vocalization that McFerrin created himself in the late 1980s. This one is a real delight, and very outside of what you’d expect from the guy who made “Don’t Worry, Be Happy”.

‘Roomful Of Teeth’ by Roomful Of Teeth’

This entry on our list of experimental albums comes from the vocal ensemble Roomful Of Teeth. Formed by Brad Wells, this ensemble made waves with their debut self-titled record in 2012. The project as a whole is unique, but there’s something about their first record that just hits. 

So many different types of vocalization and singing come into play on this album, from Inuit throat singing to Georgian vocals to Hindustani styles. It’s no surprise this album was nominated for several Grammy awards in 2014.

Photo by Mirek Towski/FilmMagic

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