Of Monsters and Men is a critically acclaimed indie folk band from Iceland. Formed in 2010, the band has since risen to international fame with its unique sound and poetic lyrics. In this article, we’ll explore the musical biography of Of Monsters and Men, their beginnings, most famous albums, most famous songs, and their musical style and influences.
Beginnings
Of Monsters and Men was formed in Reykjavik in 2010 by Nanna Bryndís Hilmarsdóttir (vocals, guitar), Ragnar Raggi Þórhallsson (vocals, guitar), Brynjar Leifsson (guitar), Arnar Rósenkranz Hilmarsson (drums), and Kristján Páll Kristjánsson (bass). The band’s debut album, My Head is an Animal, was released in Iceland in 2011, and later internationally in 2012.
Most famous albums
Apart from My Head is an Animal, which reached No. 6 on the US Billboard 200 chart, Of Monsters and Men has released two more full-length studio albums: Beneath the Skin (2015) and Fever Dream (2019). Beneath the Skin debuted at No. 3 on the US Billboard 200 chart, while Fever Dream entered the charts at No. 63.
Most famous songs
Of Monsters and Men is best known for its hit singles, Little Talks and Mountain Sound. Little Talks peaked at No. 20 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and was certified multi-platinum in several countries, including the US, Australia, and Canada. Mountain Sound was also a commercial success, reaching the Top 20 on several charts around the world.
Musical style and influences
Musical style and influences
Of Monsters and Men’s music is deeply rooted in the Icelandic tradition of storytelling and folklore, with lyrics often featuring images of nature and mythology. Musically, the band combines acoustic and electric instruments with anthemic choruses and catchy melodies. The band’s sound has been compared to that of Arcade Fire and Mumford & Sons, and the band cites Fleet Foxes, The Lumineers, and Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros as some of their influences.
Of Monsters and Men is a band that has captivated audiences around the world with their unique indie folk sound and introspective lyrics. With three studio albums and several hit singles under their belt, the band shows no signs of slowing down. Their music is a testament to the power of storytelling, and their Icelandic roots give their music a distinctive flair that sets them apart from other bands in the indie folk genre.
