Sigur Rós Releases Blóðberg, Their First New Song in Seven Years: Stream Now

Sigur Rós, the Icelandic group, has released their first original song in nearly ten years titled "Blóðberg." This significant moment also coincides with the return of multi-instrumentalist Kjartan Sveinsson in 2022, marking the band's first recording with his involvement.

The seven-minute composition unfolds gradually, with mournful strings gradually building up to lush and sweeping orchestral arrangements. Frontman Jónsi Birgisson's ethereal vocals soar to heart-wrenching heights, adding to the weight and emotional depth of the new single. The accompanying music video, directed by Johan Renck, is equally impactful, matching the song's devastating impact.

Renck shared his perspective on the song, stating, "I feel as nihilistic as one could regarding the future. We are powerless against our own stupidities. Some aspects of this came to merge with my impressions of the themes of 'Blóðberg.' The music becoming a score to my own miserable thoughts, giving them beauty as only music can."

Bassist Georg Hólm reflected on Sveinsson's return and its influence on their upcoming album, the band's first in a decade. He expressed the need for a push and someone to initiate the creative process, saying, "We needed a kick in the butt and for someone to say, 'Right now, we're going to start work - here are some ideas.'" Hólm described the reunion as a "defibrillator" that injected new life into the band, providing focus, attention to detail, and a renewed work ethic. Sveinsson's return was like a breath of fresh air for the group.

The release of "Blóðberg" coincides with Sigur Rós' Summer 2023 tour, commencing in London on June 16th and spanning across Europe and North America until August. The performances will feature orchestral accompaniment, consistent with the band's recent release in 2020, "Odin's Raven Magic," which showcased their signature string arrangements.