Biosphere is the primary creative alias of Geir Jenssen (born 30 May 1962 in Tromsø, Norway), a pioneering electronic musician and composer. His work is characterized by its atmospheric depth, minimalist structures, and evocative use of field recordings and samples. Jenssen's music often explores themes of nature, isolation, technology, and the sublime, creating immersive soundscapes that transport the listener to remote and contemplative spaces. He began his musical journey in the late 1980s, initially involved in more synth-pop and EBM projects before transitioning to the ambient and experimental techno sound that defines Biosphere.
1991
Debut album, establishing Biosphere's signature ambient techno sound with themes of space and isolation. A pivotal work shifting from earlier EBM styles.
1994
A landmark album blending ambient textures with subtle techno rhythms. Features samples from Twin Peaks, and "Novelty Waves" gained widespread recognition.
1997
Widely acclaimed as a masterpiece of dark ambient. Evokes vast, cold, desolate landscapes with deep drones and melancholic beauty. Includes material from the "Insomnia" soundtrack.
2000
More rhythmic and sample-heavy, incorporating loops from Debussy and other classical sources to create a dreamlike, slightly unsettling atmosphere.
2002
Based on Debussy's "La Mer" and other works by the composer, filtered through Biosphere's ambient lens. Explores themes of space and ocean.
2004
A conceptual album commissioned by Radio France Culture, sonically depicting a journey around the Moon, inspired by Jules Verne.
2006
Features jazz-influenced rhythms and textures, incorporating Miles Davis samples. A warmer, more organic sound than previous works.
2011
Inspired by Japanese post-war nuclear power plants, using field recordings from these sites. Creates an atmosphere of industrial awe and unease.
2016
Utilizes samples from old Polish and Ukrainian folk music recordings, creating a haunting and melancholic atmosphere of faded memories.
2017
A shorter album, often considered an EP. Dark, brooding ambient pieces evoking a sense of ancient stillness and mystery. Features samples from "The Petrified Forest" (1936 film).
2019
Ambient pieces inspired by and recorded on the island of Senja in Northern Norway. Evokes the stark beauty and isolation of the Arctic landscape.
2021
A return to more classically-influenced ambient, focusing on Beethoven's String Quartet No. 14. Melancholic, beautiful, and deeply atmospheric.
2022
Created entirely with analog synthesizers, particularly the EMS Synthi AKS. A tribute to early electronic music pioneers and the mysteries of shortwave radio.
1991
А 7” single released in 1991 by the Norwegian ambient artist Geir Jenssen, under his Biosphere moniker. It was one of his earliest releases following his transition from techno/house into more ambient and experimental music."
1994
Released in 1995. These versions showcase different interpretations of the track, blending ambient and techno elements characteristic of Biosphere’s style.
1997
Soundtrack for the original Norwegian film "Insomnia." Dark, atmospheric, and integral to the film's chilling mood. Some tracks later appeared on Substrata.
2001
Soundtrack for Dziga Vertov's 1929 silent film, commissioned for the Tromsø International Film Festival. Blends modern electronics with the film's avant-garde spirit.
2006
Pure field recordings captured by Jenssen during an expedition to Cho Oyu in the Himalayas. An immersive document of a unique sound environment.