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() is a good ambiental and melancholic album from Sigur Ros. However, there is not a lot of experimentation here as it's basically Agaetis with a more bittersweet tone, more stretched songs, less complex songs, the made-up language taking over, and a subdued use of the orchestra. Also, the booklet is quite empty.

The First 4 tracks is the strongest half as the songs stand on their own as opposed to the last 4 tracks which sound similar to each other and could lose my interest quickly. Track 1 is probably the most successful track with a memorable theme introduced on a piano that is developed nicely over six minutes under a mournful tone. Track 2 is a bit darker but it also can sound hopeful as well. It is very repetitive as it contains the same rhythm throughout the whole 7 1/2 minutes but it's good background music. Track 3 uses a piano theme and develops it, just like in the first song, though the style is getting a bit old. Track 4 is one of the strongest tracks here as the melodies are excellent, and it has the soaring reverb guitar they are known for. The song ends with organs.

The second half sounds different, sadder, and unfortunately dull. For example, Track 5 is probably the weakest as it sounds like it crawls with noise and droning for 10 minutes. Luckily, there's a good climax at the end, but it doesn't redeem the boredom preceding it. Track 6 is better. IT uses a simple, yet effective drum line and slowly grows into a memorable climax with the guitar (or bass guitar) on reverb. Track 7 is similar to track 6, but longer and probably less effective as the song is too long. The climax is extremely powerful here. Track 8 is another good ambiental piece that takes too long to reach its climax and I think it is overrated as the climax isn't much better than the average () climax.

This album is good when you are not paying attention to the music. If you want to pay attention to it, it might bore you to sleep.

Good, but not essential. Get Agaetis or Takk instead.

Highlights: Tracks 1 and 4

Letdowns: Track 5

My Grade : C-

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