Various - Hin Ljúfa Sönglist

Review by محمد عمارة

Hin Ljúfa Sönglist by Various is a delightful collection of Icelandic folk songs that showcases the beauty and richness of the country's musical heritage. Featuring a diverse range of artists, the album takes listeners on a journey through Iceland's history, culture, and landscapes, with each track offering a unique perspective and interpretation of the traditional tunes.

The album opens with the hauntingly beautiful "Bíum, bíum, bambaló" by Ragnheiður Gröndal, whose ethereal voice transports listeners to a dreamlike state. From there, the album takes on a more upbeat tone with tracks like "Hoppípolla" by Sigur Rós and "Óskasteinar" by Ásgeir Trausti, which infuse traditional folk melodies with modern instrumentation and production techniques.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Á Sprengisandi," a classic Icelandic folk song that has been covered by countless artists over the years. Here, it is given a fresh spin by the band Of Monsters and Men, who infuse the track with their signature indie-pop sound while still staying true to the song's roots.

Summary by محمد عمارة

Hin Ljúfa Sönglist is a must-listen for anyone interested in Icelandic music or folk music in general. The album is a testament to the enduring power of traditional music and the ways in which it can be adapted and reinterpreted for contemporary audiences.