Ágætis Byrjun

oh wooooaaaaaaw this is the kind of thing I was hoping to find on this excursion. An unusual and exotic band, something I have never heard before and instantly have a connection with. I really enjoyed this, and can't understand a word he is singing... but somehow I get it. Isn't music just amazing. gibberish out of 5

The sound of midnight in the wintertime, being alone without being lonely, a calm darkness with nothing insidious hiding in it. Absolutely marvelous.

The most demanding album I've come across so far on this generator. 1. It demands to be listened to with headphones. 2. It demands to have your undivided attention, while doing very little to grab it and hold on to it. 3. It demands you stay awake throughout the album, which too is no easy feat. 4. It demands you look up the English translations and make an attempt to decipher it's cryptic lyrics to follow the themes and stories. 5. It demands that you be in a certain type of melancholic, vegetative mood, but again, do not drift off to sleep! I'm sure for the listeners able to meet the above 5 demands, it would be a very rewarding listen. Unfortunately for me, I could only really meet 2/5 on any given day.

Sigur Ros is Icelandic for Sugar Ray.

Ágætis Byrjun is a triumph of engineering and arrangement, but most of all, it's a triumph of imagination. For sure, you can trace Sigur Ros' antecedents in My Bloody Valentine, Mogwai, and other similar post-rock bands, as well as ambient and industrial music, but the widescreen cinematic dreamscapes of Sigur Ros are unique to them. How do they pull it off? It sure isn't the melodies and the harmonies, which are standard issue. It's more the ever so patient accrual of layers of bowed guitar, keyboards, strings and horns, all played legato, and how all of it is recorded through echo and reverb and other production tricks. The breakout track is the title cut Svefn-g-englar, which steadily builds to an epic conclusion slowly dying away. At over ten minutes, it's long for a pop tune, but the running time goes by in a flash because the music lulls you into a trance state. Not all the tunes on Ágætis Byrjun are as timeless and wonderful, but there's plenty to enjoy here. Ágætis Byrjun is an amazing breakthrough which has inspired dozens of bands--the reverberations are still being felt today. 4.5/5

Ágætis byrjun by Sigur Rós (1999) It’s a rare album that can induce tears on a first listen, but this is it. A first person narrative beginning in the womb, a boy anticipates nativity with an awareness of transience, reticence, impatience, and the explosive violence of birth, followed by experiences of the comforting softness in his early sensations. Then, as a toddler, an awakening in his nursery room is marked by the image of an elf running toward him, strangely without getting closer. And in his reflexive effort to check his surroundings, he notices that something is missing—the walls. And we’re only four minutes into the third track. I strongly recommend listening to this album while following an English translation of the lyrics (unless, of course, you know Icelandic!). The dramatic development of the narrative is set to a composition that makes just enough contact with Western traditional music to keep it accessible, with string octet, bowed guitar, and brass ensemble providing the dominant settings. Not without horror, disappointment, and reverie, Sigur Rós walks us toward a celebratory contentment with what God provides. I won’t spoil any more of the experience of a first listen, other than to say that this slow tempo sonic masterpiece will take considerable time to absorb. En það verður ei gott að fórna sér Dagarnir eru langir (But someone has to sacrifice himself The days are long) 5/5

-Aged very well -Calm and soothing -Clear production -Easylistening

Agaetis Byjurn and Godspeed You! Black Emperor are 2 of the most well received records that do absolutely nothing for me. I know the orchestration sounds terrific, and the strings, pianos, flutes create beautiful harmonies, but it's just incredibly boring to me. I will not listen to 9 minutes of pretentious ambient noises to wait for a climax that won't come, in a language that I don't understand again, to see why people love this so much. 2/5.

Ethereal Millenial Soundscape. Very cool all around, a little hard to listen to all the time. Very, Very good though.

This is what the northern lights would sound like if they made music.

-it feels like a dream converted into an album -orchestral -beautiful -atmosphehric -love the themes of childbirth and naivity -this is (near) perfect -I almost started crying -favourite songs: Svefn-g-englar (<3), Starálfur, Ný batterí, Hjartað Hamast (<3), Viðrar vel til loftárása (<3), Olsen Olsen (<3), the title track (<3) -least favourite song: Intro

Unremarkable orchestral stuff with dreary guitar stuff and whiny vocals. I saw these guys live when I was going through a brief post-rock phase. They put on a big visual spectacle show, but I honestly can't remember what I ever enjoyed about the music. I guess it felt like serious, artistic music to me at the time, and I was a try-hard. But it's really the most insipid elements of ambient, classical and rock brewed together into a weak and unsatisfying infusion. Couple of interesting brass moments, and one or two tracks were the vocals actually sound alright - but these are dribbles of interest in an overlength ocean of tedium.

I have absolutely no idea what this is, and I love it. Whenever I see an album from the late 90s pop up that I've never heard of before, I can't help for my initial reaction to be dread. I have received so much shit from that era from really underground bands and artists to the point where I just assume that I've discovered all the good music from the late 90s, and everything else sucks. But this album has proved me wrong. Every song rewards you for listening to the whole thing, and slowly builds until it reaches an epic climax. Even though I don't speak a word of Icelandic, the intensely passionate delivery of the vocals makes me love them. I initially found it daunting that this album was 10 songs and 71 minutes long, that means that each song averages at about 7 minutes. But you know what, if anything that's the best part of it. Being able to really explore every sound in every song to such depth, and slowly add layers that build perfectly throughout the songs. I never would have thought that I would have fallen in love with this album as much as I have, but I do love occasionally getting a reminder that there is still music out there that I have never heard of that is still this amazing. It's so easy to get caught up in always listening to the same things and not realising how much music there actually is in the world that's still really good. But hey, I suppose that's the reason we are all doing this album list at the end of the day.

Excellent,dreamy, original.

Listening to this album, waiting for something that never happens. Letdown.

A womb with a view. I eat placenta on a daily basis. It goes best with vinegar and brown rice. Yum.

I thought I would like this more than I did.

Feel like I aged 100 years listening to this. In a good way

Ooh, this was honestly the definition of atmospheric. Made me feel at peace. Singer is brilliant. 4.

Highlights: Starálfur, Flugufrelsarinn, Viðrar vel til loftárása I have no idea what they're saying, or what language (It's Icelandic, in case you were wondering) but it doesn't make any difference because Sigur Rós' moody, atmospheric downtempo transcends language, invoking a sense of wonder and serenity. I can't help but to try and connect with the music...My own interpretation is that Starálfur ("Staring Elf") transports the listener to a celebratory fireworks display so lifelike, you can almost smell the sulfur and feel the night breeze on your cheeks. Flugufrelsarinn ("The Fly's Savior") continues later in the same night, deeper in the dark, at the water's edge. My interpretations don't really matter, though... This is right at home with the likes of Halou, Flunk, Zero 7, and Theivery Corporation, and will be including more in my downtempo playlists.

Vous qui fréquentez ce site connaissez très bien mes goûts et ma personnalité. Et je pense qu'aucun d'entre vous n'aurait parié sur le fait que je puisse adorer cet album. C'est pourtant ce qui s'est passé. J'ai néanmoins été déçu d'apprendre que les paroles qu'ils baragouinaient n'étaient en rien de l'Islandais mais bien une langue inventée de toute pièce, ce qui ne m'a pas empêché de relever quelques fautes de grammaire.

Music to stare at icebergs to.

When this was released I thought it was deep and emotional but upon relistening it appears fucking insufferable. Nice music, but those vocals? Drunken elves.

I don't know if it's just in my particular circle, but this was one of THE albums when it came out and still has legendary mystique. It might not be my favorite of theirs - I think that honor goes to the followup () - but it defines their sound and no one else quite does it like them in post rock. Dreamy, ethereal, otherworldly... whatever adjectives you want to use are probably a good start. Svefn-g-englar has that majesty and atmosphere... I was impressed this time with the power of the keyboards on Flugufrelsarinn, and the almost-bluesy bass riff on Hjartaoð hamast, before the wall of noise kicks in. There's really no bad songs, and everything flows together like one long performance, so just put it on and let yourself float away. Essential.

wow

Reminds me of a more electronic version of Pink Floyd in their golden era. Tracks like Flugufrelsarinn have surprisingly similar textures to those of 70s prog, including slow, smooth basslines, thick synth soundscapes, and music that isn't primarily focused on vocals. The drumming also reminds me of 90s alt-rock in places. There are a variety of influences here, and they work pretty darn well together. Also present are many seamless shifts in mood within tracks, and some The Wall-esque track transitions that really glue together the album into a singular piece of art. The little melodies in the synths, guitars, and winds are fun. The strongest melodies are in Svefn-g-englar (it didn't get annoying, surprisingly!) and Olsen Olsen (the little flute coda is such a fun way to end the track). There isn't much to criticise about the album. Maybe the production could be a little more sharp, particularly in the instruments with varied frequency (vocals and percussion). Somebody might also argue that the album commits to a specific fantasy-winter theme (supported in part by the lyrics) and refuses to deviate from that, though I think that's a strength rather than a downfall. With Ágætis Byrjun, Sigur Rós have nearly perfected this strange, wonderful genre that, in my opinion, is one of the better ones. It's certainly some of the best 90s output I've heard. 5/5 Key tracks: Svefn-g-englar, Starálfur, Olsen Olsen

Everything about this was novel to me. The record is touching, even if you can't understand a single word. And once you search for the translated lyrics, you understand they are as beautiful as the music. This is timeless and transcendental.

Nothing (except many some of Brian Eno's work) can calm me more than 'Agaetis Byrjun'. I remember hearing about Sigur Ros and searching everywhere for this album before I finally found an import version. I'd listen to it over and over while lying on the floor, staring at the ceiling. Jonsi's cello bow playing on the guitar mixed perfectly with the atmospheric music which seems to reach up to the sky and reflects the beautifully stark Icelandic landscape. I saw Sigur Ros during their tour for their third album '( )'. The venue allowed a 100 college aged kids with CMJ Music Marathon passes to attend. The crowd was rowdy, rude and drunk. They booed the opening act and generally were frustrating to listen to. But three minutes of Sigur Ros playing was enough to shut them up for the rest of the show. Years later 'Agaetis Byrjun' remains one of my all time favorite albums.

Agaetis Byrjun is the brilliant debut album from Sigur Ros. Their music is very difficult to categorize - first, they are from Iceland. They are a rock band that makes elegant ballads and soundscapes. Their lead singer, Jonsi, sings in a melodic falsetto, and is accompanied by a rock band and at times, an orchestra. They layer ambient electronic effects to create the full, rich sound of their songs. Agaetis Byrjum was the album that made Sigur Ros into international stars. Their unique sound propelled the band to near-universal critical success, and world-wide commercial success.

Very happy to see this album on here. I love Sigur Ros and this album especially. You do need to be in a certain mood to listen to them though. Glad it was gloomy today.

Used to listen to this to fall asleep, I mean that in the best way

The beauty of this music is not only found in the structure and instrumentation, but furthermore exist in the audiences interpretation.

Otra sorpresa, no porque no conozca la banda sino por el reto de escuchar por primera vez un disco completo de Sigur Rós. Súper relajante, para estar tirado en una cama o en un sillón, sólo concentrado en la música que suena. Ambiental, noventoso en detalles sutiles que recuerdan a Radiohead (el mejor ejemplo es Flugufrelsarinn). Tiene canciones épicas, como Hjartað hamast (bamm bamm bamm) y Viðrar vel til loftárása. Tiene todo para un viaje emotivo. Introspectivo. Pienso que también son necesarias estas instancias de desconexión: sobre todo en Argentina. ¿Está mal que el arte sea, de vez en cuando, un escape?

I really liked this. The ambient portions of the overall sound make me want to replay Disco Elysium.

Just gorgeous and genre-defining. A big part of my mid-2000s.

Dreams

Really good album, did not expect something so good so soon.

I have no idea what they are singing about but I loved this already years ago... Great album

Beautiful This album is truly beautiful. I have the same feelings towards it as i did to Melody AM and Vespertine. It's anthemic, makes you wanna run through a field with your arms up in the air, embracing life. its just absolutely beautiful i think im going 5, i will come back to this record often, i hope

I thought a whole album of Sigur Ros would be too repetitive for me, but wow I just get so emotional listening to this music. There is something transcendental about it.

Riktigt bra, skönt sound och fina melodier. Tror bara att jag inte lyssnat på vissa låtar tillräckligt men annars är det nog en av de bättre jag har rateat.

Solid. By coincidence this album was recommended on North American eclipse day 2024. Excellent soundtrack for an eclipse.

I'm hoping this isn't the only Sigur Ros. I've seen them live a few times. Spent a good chunk of my late teens/early 20s listening to them. Very special place in my heart.

Incredibly atmospheric and moving, achieved exclusively through tone and texture. Sung in Icelandic and gibberish, I didn't understand a word but was still moved almost to tears. An otherworldly masterpiece. Rating: 5/5 Playlist track: Svefn-g-englar Date listened: 19/12/23

Ugh, I really love this. It definitely helps to listen to this as an album in its entirety. Turn the sound way up and let the whole thing wash over you in its sublime majesty. The whole album is solid, with big melancholic soundscapes throughout, and flashes of searing beauty (notably with songs like Starálfur). The long tracks go by so quickly. I love everything about this. The album art, the concept, everything.

Familiar with a couple of Sigur Rios songs but first time listening to this album, wow, so atmospheric absolutely a masterpiece. Can see me listening to this a lot this year.

goated, if only their other albums were as consistent as this

https://www.stereogum.com/2047135/sigur-ros-agaetis-byrjun-turns-20/reviews/the-anniversary/

Coincidentally been listening to this (for the first time) recently. Very chilled and cohesive. Definitely added to my favourites.

ethereal. beautiful. demands your full attention.

beautiful album, some of the best post-rock i’ve had the pleasure of listening to

Simon: 1. I have this, but probably made it never all the way through before today, due to its length. 2. Did you ever go to a majestically dingy club called The Foundry wedged between Great Eastern St and Old St? Some friends played strange and sometimes obnoxious music to other weirdos there in the early noughties, and among gruesome remixes of “The Lady in Red” and the “Eastenders” theme, a constant was the set ending with “Svefn-g-englar”, which is enchanting. 3. There are some sumptuous textures and melodies in here, and it builds a consistent sound-world for itself, which I like. However, there’s not enough grit in there to keep me from sliding off. The sixth song flashes a spot of Dave Brubeck before the wailing guitars and epic whispering return, and I’m extending my arms going no, no, bring back sexy Brubeck, which is a dangerous move when driving a car. 4. I saw Sigur Ros support Radiohead along with Beck, and I must report R Head were surprisingly fun while SigRo sounded lost and missable, while Beck as just dull. Don’t worry, I didn’t pay. 5. There’s something a little cute or twee to the vibe, the silliness of singing sometimes in a made-up language fitting, trading in darkness that is more Tim Burton than David Lynch. 6. A later album, “Kveikur", has a song called “Isjaki" that has an urgency absent here, and is my favourite track of theirs along with "Svefn-g-englar”. 7. Homework noted with thanks.

I remember first discovering this and being amazed at how different it sounded compared to anything else I knew at the time. I was huge into Sigur Rós for awhile and even saw them in concert. Now hearing this again many years later, I still enjoy this, but the feeling for me is more nostalgia than anything else. There are a couple strong tracks on this album, but most of this kind of moves from one to the next without much consequence. I listen to this with fond memories but I also wonder if this could have been the beginning of something much bigger that never really materialized.

Sigur Ros. Enough said.

Bands like Sigur Rós - I've never heard of them before today - are exactly the reason why I like the 1001 site. It provides me the opportunity to expand my horizons and listen to something new and different. Two tracks, "Olsen olsen" and "Ágætis byrjun", are truly beautiful.

To be transparent here my review may be inflated by me being in the optimal situation to hear this album. I had a 40 minute walk home after work at 1 am. Turned this one on and I’m not sure I’ve ever heard a more beautiful album. All of the instrumentals just had a way of evoking emotion. It was long for sure and I do kinda wish it was in English but when a albums speaks to me in this was I’m more willing to overlook that. Weird one to rate cuz there’s not songs with replay value and I don’t know when I’m gonna listen to it again but I just had a 5/5 experience listening. Best: the first four tracks (not including intro)

I thought, for some reason, this was going to be a Hispanic rock band. Heard the name before and I guess that’s what came to mind. It’s not. Icelandic melodic dreamy music. I really like this.

This album is a snoozefest... but it sounds beautiful and has great production. If you like loooooong instrumental, dreamy songs with random singing , then you will love this. It is unfortunately not my thing, cool fetus though.

Strange. Some songs are too long and drone along at the same tempo for way too much time. Length is an issue overall. I have no problem with long songs, I just don’t need to listen to 10 of them in a row. This was ok, but I’ll never go back to it.

Radiohead and its consequences have been a complete disaster for the music industry.

One long beautiful dream scape....I couldn't get thru it. Sounded like a soundtrack for a stunning visual IMAX movie. Good background music for doing something.....

A little dull, sometimes repetitive. Cinematic, but what’s the point?

You could probably sleep to this. Very slow, quiet songs. All in Icelandic or whatever.

Mental icelandic orchestral cinematic sounds. The singing is a bit irritating. I liked the batteri and bamm bamm bamm

This album is just too slow for my liking. Not really a fan.

This album starts off like a tornado and smacks you in the chops. It’s loud and brash and in your face. It’s thrashy and punky and a little bit screamy. Normally this combination would induce an excited curiosity from myself and these tracks did just that...but that was all. I just can’t find anything worthwhile or standoutish. The songs speed along happily enough, but leave you feeling unsatisfied and with an empty void. 2 Stars!

weird shit

Long and Boring. That’s all I can say about this album.

I get a slow build but having to wait 20 minutes for anything resembling tempo was just annoying. An exercise in patience and futility.

pretty but just overall generic and boring

I fell asleep. Tedious stuff that goes nowhere. I get what they're trying to do, it is not for me.

Gorgeous, atmospheric, feels like the soundtrack of exploring the world on a gray damp day. I didn’t know about “post rock” as a genre but it seems I’m a fan!

I first found this album through the movie The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou in which the track Starálfur is showcased. It has since become a very personal album to me, and while it may not be my favorite Sigur Rós record, that would be Valtari, I do not think I can give this less than a 5. I come back and listen to it very often and will continue to do so in the foreseeable future. 5/5

[looks at iceland] I'll have what she's having!

Fleeting splendor in a deeply unfair world.

10/10 Beautiful as seeing the person you'll fall in love with for the very first time, then seeing them again 10 years later and realising you still love them like that. Tip: Right after Flugufrelsarinn, listen to "Catch the Rainbow" by Rainbow, with a 6-second fade in between.

Just a totally beautiful album from start to finish. So glad this was put back on my radar. Love this band and love this album.

9.5/10

Sigur Ros are a band that felt like they were from another planet when they arrived on the scene. It's not that there isn't other post-rock and orchestral music or that other singers don't sing in languages other than English or in falsetto. However, the ethereal sound of Sigur Ros and the mix of all the elments they put together has still made them mostly a unique experience, and they've been able to replicate it without making the same album over and over. This album is the original that took off, and while it's not my favorite by them, at this point, it has at least a couple of their best songs, and the whole thing is just beautiful and still a classic.

Beautiful

## In-Depth Review of *Ágætis Byrjun* by Sigur Rós Sigur Rós' *Ágætis Byrjun* (1999) is widely regarded as a landmark album in post-rock, blending ethereal soundscapes, orchestral arrangements, and Jónsi Birgisson's haunting falsetto to create a deeply emotive experience. This review explores its lyrics, music, production, themes, influence, and evaluates its strengths and weaknesses. --- ### **Lyrics** The lyrics on *Ágætis Byrjun* are primarily sung in Icelandic and Vonlenska (Hopelandic), a gibberish language invented by the band. This linguistic choice enhances the universality of the album by allowing listeners to focus on the emotional resonance of the vocals rather than literal meanings. Tracks like "Svefn-g-englar" ("Sleepwalking Angels") and "Viðrar vel til loftárása" ("Good Weather for Airstrikes") evoke dreamlike imagery that complements the atmospheric music[1][3][5]. While the lyrics are often unintelligible to most listeners, their emotive delivery transcends language barriers. For example, Jónsi’s falsetto in “Starálfur” ("Staring Elf") feels like an invocation of innocence and wonder. However, some translations reveal quirky themes—such as saving flies in "Flugufrelsarinn" ("Savior of the Fly")—which might detract from the album’s perceived profundity for those who delve deeper[5]. --- ### **Music** Musically, *Ágætis Byrjun* is a masterpiece of texture and mood. Sigur Rós employs unconventional techniques such as Jónsi’s cello-bowed guitar to create lush soundscapes. The album features orchestral arrangements performed by a double string octet, adding depth and grandeur to tracks like "Starálfur" and "Olsen Olsen"[2][3][7]. The compositions are sprawling and cinematic, often eschewing traditional song structures for organic progression. For instance: - **"Svefn-g-englar"** opens with ethereal drones before evolving into a celestial hymn. - **"Viðrar vel til loftárása"** builds over ten minutes with piano motifs and sweeping strings. - **"Hjartað hamast (bamm bamm bamm)"** introduces subtle grooves with harmonica and organ flourishes[1][3][7]. However, this expansive approach can occasionally feel indulgent. Some tracks, like "Ný batterí," feature extended build-ups that risk testing listeners' patience[1][4]. The minimalism of the intro (“Intro”) and outro (“Avalon”) also feels underwhelming compared to the richness of other songs[4]. --- ### **Production** The production by Ken Thomas is immaculate, balancing intricate layers of instrumentation with Jónsi’s delicate vocals. The album's sound is cosmic and otherworldly, with each element meticulously placed to evoke a sense of timelessness[3][7]. Highlights include: - The palindromic string arrangements on “Starálfur,” which create symmetry and intrigue[3]. - The communal climax of “Olsen Olsen,” where choral harmonies and brass flourishes elevate the track into a celebration of unity[2]. Despite its brilliance, some critics argue that the production lacks variety across its 71-minute runtime. The reliance on ambient textures can lead to moments of fatigue for listeners seeking dynamic shifts[1][4]. --- ### **Themes** Thematically, *Ágætis Byrjun* explores spirituality, reflection, and transcendence. Its title translates to "A Good Beginning," symbolizing optimism and renewal at the dawn of the millennium[2][3]. Tracks like “Viðrar vel til loftárása” evoke melancholy yet hopeful atmospheres, while “Olsen Olsen” radiates communal joy. The album’s artwork—a sketch of a fetus—further emphasizes themes of birth and beginnings. This imagery aligns with the music’s meditative qualities, inviting listeners to experience profound emotional introspection[3]. --- ### **Influence** *Ágætis Byrjun* marked a turning point for Sigur Rós and post-rock as a genre. Its release coincided with the decline of grunge and alternative rock in the late 1990s, offering a fresh direction for guitar-based music rooted in optimism rather than darkness[2]. The album garnered international acclaim following its UK release in 2000 and US release in 2001. It influenced contemporaries like Mogwai and Godspeed You! Black Emperor while attracting celebrity fans such as Thom Yorke and Brad Pitt[2][5]. Its universal appeal lies in its ability to evoke deeply human emotions without requiring linguistic comprehension. Moreover, *Ágætis Byrjun* paved the way for Sigur Rós’ subsequent works, including *( )*, which delved further into Vonlenska vocals. Its legacy persists as one of post-rock’s most inventive albums[5]. --- ### **Pros** 1. **Innovative Soundscapes**: The cello-bowed guitar technique and orchestral arrangements set new standards for post-rock. 2. **Emotional Resonance**: Jónsi’s falsetto transcends language barriers to connect deeply with listeners. 3. **Cinematic Quality**: Tracks like “Starálfur” feel like auditory fairy tales. 4. **Universal Themes**: The exploration of renewal and spirituality resonates across cultures. 5. **Production Excellence**: Ken Thomas’ meticulous layering creates an immersive listening experience. --- ### **Cons** 1. **Lengthy Build-ups**: Songs like "Ný batterí" test patience with excessive introspection. 2. **Lack of Variety**: The ambient textures can feel monotonous over 71 minutes. 3. **Minimalist Intro/Outro**: “Intro” and “Avalon” are underwhelming compared to other tracks. 4. **Quirky Lyrics**: Translations reveal mundane themes that may detract from perceived profundity. 5. **Accessibility Issues**: Its unconventional structure might alienate casual listeners. --- ### **Conclusion** Sigur Rós’ *Ágætis Byrjun* is an extraordinary achievement that redefined post-rock through its ethereal soundscapes, orchestral grandeur, and universal appeal. While its length and lack of variety may challenge some listeners, its emotional depth and innovative production make it a timeless classic.

I loved it ! Thank you Sigurd’ right up my street :))))

An extraordinary album, and one I feel nostalgic about while listening, as I have hardly done since I was in high school. It's still deeply familiar and endlessly rich. A real treat to listen again. I will remember to add it to my instrumental-music-to-listen-to-when-I-need-to-get-written-work-done rotation.

Classic. Such amazing atmosphere. Have listened to this one a ton over my lifetime. 5/5

I was debating between 4 and 5 for this but then I realised that if the lyrics were English I would be rating it 5 because the instrumentation moved me and I really like the singer's voice. I don't want to rate something down just because I don't understand the language of the music, so it's a 5.

Wild fake language mumbling and vibey post rock crescendos, could kinda listen to this all day

All I want to do is go to Iceland and tour the country while listening to this record. A beautiful, singular album that transports the listener.

This album gives me such a sense of mystery. Its one of those that is so layered and different that I want so badly to understand it. I swear it sounds different every time I hear it. Its just SO cool, and I'm so intrugued by it - like I don't quite get it and I want to keep listening it until I do.

Do you remember when you saw your first Jaguar Shark? I do. It was in college and it blew my mind.

|Headphones on.

Beautiful album, amazing band. 5 stars!

It won't always be the vibe you're looking for but if it is...easy five, this album has been looping for a few hours and I haven't minded one bit

Yayyyyyyy! Listening to this after Hounds Of Love is quite a lot for one morning. And now I want to watch Heima again.

Very nice

Ethereal, beautiful and a delightful listen

I spent a few weeks in Kauai, HI in the spring of '01. A lifetime ago in so many ways. But the memories of that trip to one of the most singularly beautiful places I have ever remain vivid. And one the primary soundtracks to that trip - and the one that still resonates today - is this album. Listening - I am transported back to that place and time. Perhaps strange that is meshed so well with music that was created half a world away amidst the and ice and clouds. Maybe it's the volcanos. Cut to today - listening to this album while running on freshly snow covered trails. Turns out it works pretty well in that environment as well. I know the violin bowed guitar can hedge a little close to Spinal Tap territory. And they definitely let these songs unfold. While theres no Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds or Paranoid Android - there are elements of the Beatles (that outro on Olsen Olsen) and Radiohead and obviously the Cocteau Twins. Take those ingredients and a sprinkle in some Pink Floyd put it all in a blendara (Icelandic for "blender") and this is what you get. I do like this album but I'm going to kick it up a notch because of the nature of this list. If you haven't heard this you should. Like it or hate it - it's one of those singular voice albums. 5 stars. Now - could I also be talked into writing a review that asks the question " what would it sound like if you added some random horns to a (insert name of any 2nd rate showgaze band here - I'm going with Chapterhouse) album and slowed it down to a speed that whales could comprehend. 1 star." I could - potentially - but not today. Cause the snow. And the volcanos. And Olsen Olsen. And even the violin bow. Maybe especially the violin bow. 5 stars

After the disappointment that was Neneh Cherry, this was more than a breath of fresh air. It is one of many records which prove why Scandinavians are the greatest musicians out there. The production, the melodies, incorporations of instruments in the right place at the right time, the power of breaking language barriers, both real and fictional, through music - this one is a gem I am glad to have found!

Heard this when it came out walking into a record store and started to ask what it was and the cute girl behind the counters just went shhh and sold it to me.

Æðisleg plata. Brautryðjandi verk. Þetta er náttúrulega bara furðulegt ævintýri sem maður stígur inn í. Aldrei vitað jafn stutt 10 mínútna lög og Svefn-g-englar og viðrar vel til loftárásar. 6/5.

Meistaraverk sem ég fæ aldrei leið á. Svo miklu meira en bara ágætis byrjun á frábærum ferlli Sigur Rós. 10/5