Sigur Rós

There are few bands that cut through the noise and distractions of the world to bring you a pure elemental truth or feeling like Sigur Rós. It seems only fitting that now they will return down under with 41-piece orchestra and their most intimate and emotionally direct album to date, ÁTTA.

Since their formation, the band has masterfully blended ambient electronics, orchestral and rock instruments, with the haunting falsetto of frontman Jónsi at the helm. The band first emerged from Iceland with their debut album, Von, in 1997, but it was their sophomore album, Ágætis byrjun, in 1999 that propelled them to international acclaim. The album won them the prestigious Shortlist Music Prize and was declared Iceland’s Best Album of the Century. Following this success, their third album, ( ), was celebrated for its innovative use of Jónsi’s made-up language, known as Hopelandic.

Their expansive catalogue features several chart-topping records, including their 2012 album Valtari which became their fifth consecutive number one in Iceland, topped the album chart in Ireland, and reached number seven in the US. Returning to the studio shortly after, Sigur Rós took their sound in a darker, more assertive direction with their seventh album, Kveikur (2013). The change was approved by fans worldwide, and it became a Top 20 hit across Europe, the US, the UK and in Australia. That same year, the band appeared on screen in Game Of Thrones and featured in an episode of The Simpsons, which featured original music by Sigur Rós, as well as their take on the show’s theme song.

Known for their mesmerising live performances, Sigur Rós has performed at major festivals around the world including Coachella, Glastonbury, and Lollapalooza, and sold-out shows across the globe. Their shows are celebrated for their emotional intensity and immersive atmosphere. Their world tour in 2022 marked a triumphant return after a five-year hiatus of touring, thrilling fans with both new material and beloved classics.

ÁTTA, released in June 2023, captures a new chapter in their musical journey. The album marks a decade since Kveikur and brings together the trio of Jónsi, Georg Holm, and the returning Kjartan Sveinsson. Recorded with a stripped-back approach and strings laid down at the iconic Abbey Road Studios, the album features lush arrangements, including a 32-piece orchestra, yet maintains an emotional focus, reflecting the complexities of a post-pandemic world.

Following their US tour, which features eight special dates with the Wordless Music Orchestra and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Sigur Rós will take their orchestral experience to Australia. Fans can look forward to a captivating performance that blends fan favourites with their latest record.

Sigur Rós’ 2022 Australian headline dates sold out well in advance, so jump on these tickets quick! Presale for Adelaide, Melbourne and Brisbane begins from 10am local time Wednesday 2 October and tickets to the general public are available from 10am local time Friday 4 October.