Sigur Ros: Hvarf/Heim

By: Andrew Bruss

It may fall short of new album status, but Hvarf/Heim (XL) by Sigur Ros is sure to keep eardrums stimulated until the group delivers their next full-length. Hvarf/Heim compiles two previously import-only EPs. Hvarf is five alternate versions and unreleased tracks. Heim consists of six live, acoustic takes from their summer tour in their native Iceland, a tour chronicled in the new Heima DVD.

On Hvarf, the band takes a step back from the dramatic, pulsating sound of 2005’s Takk to dish up a handful of mellower songs originally recorded for their 1997 debut, Von, and their sophomore masterpiece, Agaetis Byrjun. Heim, the more interesting half of this release, offers Sigur Ros fans some long desired live tunes with acoustic renditions of fan favorites “Agaetis Byrjun,” “Vaka” and “Von.” Heim‘s highlight is a meditative version of “Staralfur,” a track made famous by Wes Anderson’s film The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou. The all-acoustic version brings out the siren beauty of the string arrangement, and provides the tune with a makeover that makes the listener fall in love with it all over again.

Newcomers to Sigur Ros’ music are directed to their earlier studio albums but Hvarf/Heim offers existing fans different takes on favorites and previously unheard material to tide them over while they record the next big release.

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