Sigur Rós Embraces Simplicity on New LP

Sigur Rós, known for their epic and sorrowful soundscapes, has embraced a notable shift in direction with their latest album, "Með suð í eyrum við spilum endalaust." Approximately half of the LP offers a more spirited, looser, and almost playful musicality, moving away from their signature grandiose arrangements. This change is particularly evident in concise, pop-format songs like "Illgresi" and "Við spilum endalaust," which showcase the band's ability to create compelling music within shorter structures.

The album was produced by Flood and recorded across New York, London, Reykjavik, and Havana, indicating a conscious effort to diversify their approach. While the relative leanness of the album is a triumph, two tracks, "Festival" and "Ára bátur," still stretch beyond nine minutes, hinting at a lingering inclination for their traditional, elaborate style. These longer pieces, especially "Ára bátur," are noted as overstuffed and less successful compared to the album's more economical moments.

Despite these minor relapses into their old sound, "Með suð í eyrum við spilum endalaust" is lauded as a beautiful record filled with wonderful moments. The album promises a sunny and digestible listening experience, even as it occasionally revisits the band's characteristic heavy-bloat, high-calorie sound. The exploration of brevity and a more playful tone suggests a significant, albeit not entirely consistent, evolution for the Icelandic band.