Whether you’re listening to them alone at home or in the midst of a crowded dancefloor, Sigur Rós create a lush sanctuary of sound for you to cocoon yourself in.
The Icelandic band has been enchanting fans with their unique sonic vistas for more than two decades now. Though they’ve taken some extended breaks in that time, they always seem to find their way back to each other.
In 2022, after reuniting simply for the joy of creating music together, band members Jónsi Birgisson, Georg Holm, and Kjartan Sveinsson announced that they would be reviving Sigur Rós with a new studio album and a world tour.
Less than three months later, Jónsi, Georg, and Kjartan were on stage at Mexico City’s Teatro Metropolitan, conjuring up those transcendent, spine-tingling soundscapes they are known and loved for. With the North American leg of their tour complete, the band is now setting their sights on Australia and Asia. We were fortunate enough to be granted some time with bassist Georg Holm to ask about the past, present, and future of Sigur Rós.
You’ve just finished the North American leg of your tour. Can you share a few of your favourite moments?
After a long pause in touring we all went into this a bit nervous. What was it going to be like after COVID? How were people going to react to the new show? Were we going to remember how to play? It was definitely a treat to be able to go back to Mexico. This time around also being able to spend some time there. It was also great to settle into the idea of touring again so nicely. A real sense of comradery and a relaxed, fun atmosphere.
What do you aim to create for audiences with the live experience?
We have always wanted to enhance our music with visual aspects. When we started planning this tour, we wanted to create something perhaps a bit more intimate than we have done on the last few tours. Maybe come back to the days of less fuss. I think our creative team have created something beyond that so now we have a full-blown show with all the fuss and kept the intimacy.
For fans, your music conjures up intricate waves of emotion, making your live shows magical, and inspiring many people to invite your music into their weddings and other important milestones. What is the experience like for you when you play live?
We always try to bring all the emotions with us on stage. It is something that is very important to us. When we write our music it is usually driven by the mental images and raw emotions it creates within us. Less about making musical sense. If we manage to stir any emotion in our audience then, job done.
After taking time off, how has it been transitioning back into touring as a band?
It was definitely a bit intimidating at first. We were very nervous about starting this life of a touring band again. It was such a relief how naturally everything flowed and how quickly we were back in the saddle, but at the same time with a fresh look on the whole thing.
How has your approach to creating music evolved over the years?
It has been constantly evolving for us since the beginning. Every album has been a different experience. Highs and lows. Every album or piece of music we have created have all had a life of their own.
It sounds like you guys came back together in a very organic way – “free of expectations or deadlines, simply to enjoy the creative process.” When did you realise this shared musical experimentation was perfect for Sigur Rós? And what led to the realisation?
The process of making the new music and starting this new tour has been very freeing in many ways. I think we all left our egos behind and just enjoyed being in each other’s company.
What influences went into the music for the new album?
Good question. The new material has been a lot of searching. Something starting off one way and ending up different and other parts ending up exactly the same. I think we have had a lot of influences on the new material that has stuck and a lot that you might not hear but is still there somehow.
What first inspired each of you you to play music?
I can only answer for myself, but for me it just happened.
You’ve explored so much creatively, both individually and as a band. What would you love to try that you haven't done yet?
I think we will all continue to explore. Maybe we are only starting. I also think that with maturing you become more aware of the things around you and that everything becomes more interesting. I don't think we want to get stuck anywhere and just enjoy what life throws at us.
Beyond 2022, what does the future hold for Sigur Rós?
I usually like to refer to us as the steam engine. When we start it's very hard to put on the brakes. As long as we are enjoying ourselves we will continue doing that.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Can’t wait to start playing some shows again. . . So see you there!
Sigur Rós Australia Tour Dates
9-10 August - Fortitude Music Hall (Brisbane)12 August - Aware Super Theatre (Sydney)
13 August - MCA (Melbourne)
