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Travel Music Buzz – Takk by Sigur Rós
When Icelandic foursome Sigur Rós released Takk in 2005, their fourth full length album, they had already developed an international reputation for
operating far outside the realm of “normal.” Their music is still difficult to describe using words. Rather, images, feelings and experiences seem more appropriate. After all, before Takk, the band had never even sung an entire album in anything except “Hopelandic” – the band’s made up combination of gibberish and their native language of Icelandic. The release of Takk was their biggest step toward accessibility in their music, giving the listener a more balanced and focused sound that patiently unfolds into an ethereal chorus of soothing soundscapes, powerful climaxes and playful orchestrations.
This is a record that comes from the very heart and soul of the band’s identity. It makes you feel the chill of the harsh Icelandic landscape, yet feel the warmth and beauty of its people. Although the Icelandic words of Takk may still sound like gibberish to the English speaking listener, experiencing this work of art some how evokes a feeling of clarity. It’s a celebration of what it means to be alive. It sets the imagination free, yet stimulates a concrete connection to humanity and nature. It unleashes an ageless spirit that captivates the soul, no matter how young or old. Though developed and mature sounding, the tenderness of this music suggests feelings of childhood and the innocent curiosity of youth. Just try closing your eyes and listen to a track like Hoppípolla and see if you don’t envision yourself hopping through puddles (which is, in fact, the literal English translation of the track title).
Turn your mind off, open yourself up to the experience and listen to Takk start to finish and perhaps you will feel all of this for yourself. Let your imagination run free and let your curiosity remind you of what it’s like to be a child. Let the music paint a world of gentle beauty and celestial atmosphere around you. Give this album a genuine and thoughtful listen, and you might even discover something about yourself.
Sigur Rós – Takk
