Of Monsters And Men
Biography
From the volcanic landscapes of Iceland emerged a folk-pop phenomenon that would capture hearts across the globe with their anthemic choruses and whimsical storytelling. Of Monsters And Men began as the musical brainchild of childhood friends Nanna Bryndís Hilmarsdóttir and Ragnar "Raggi" Þórhallsson in Reykjavík around 2010, though their creative partnership stretches back to their teenage years when they first started writing songs together in bedrooms and basements across the Icelandic capital.
The duo's chemistry proved irresistible when they decided to expand their sound, recruiting guitarist Brynjar Leifsson, drummer Arnar Rósenkranz Hilmarsson, and bassist Kristján Páll Kristjánsson to form a full band. What started as intimate acoustic sessions quickly evolved into something altogether more expansive, with their music embodying the stark beauty and mythical atmosphere of their Nordic homeland while remaining utterly accessible to international audiences.
Their breakthrough came with startling swiftness. "Little Talks," the lead single from their debut album, became an unstoppable force upon its release in 2011. The track's distinctive call-and-response vocals between Nanna and Raggi, coupled with its driving rhythm and euphoric brass arrangements, created an instant earworm that dominated radio waves from Reykjavík to Los Angeles. The song's success was no fluke – it perfectly encapsulated the band's ability to weave darkness and light into irresistible pop confections.
The accompanying debut album, "My Head Is An Animal," released in 2011, established Of Monsters And Men as masters of cinematic folk-pop. Tracks like "Mountain Sound" and "King And Lionheart" showcased their talent for crafting songs that felt simultaneously intimate and stadium-ready, with lyrics that painted vivid pictures of fantastical creatures and emotional landscapes. The album's success was nothing short of meteoric, reaching multi-platinum status across multiple territories and establishing the band as Iceland's most successful musical export since Björk and Sigur Rós.
Their sound draws from the rich tradition of Nordic folk while incorporating elements of indie rock, pop, and even hints of electronic music in their later work. Nanna's crystalline vocals provide the perfect counterpoint to Raggi's earthier tones, while the band's instrumental arrangements often feature unexpected touches – from brass sections to banjos – that elevate their songs beyond conventional folk-pop territory.
The band's sophomore effort, "Beneath The Skin" (2015), saw them grappling with the pressures of success while pushing their sound into more experimental territories. While it didn't achieve the commercial heights of their debut, tracks like "Crystals" and "Empire" demonstrated their growth as songwriters, tackling themes of fame, identity, and human connection with newfound maturity. The album's more introspective tone reflected the band's evolution from wide-eyed newcomers to seasoned performers who had conquered festival stages from Coachella to Glastonbury.
Their third album, "Fever Dream" (2019), marked another creative leap, incorporating electronic elements and showcasing a more polished production style. Songs like "Alligator" revealed a band unafraid to experiment with their established formula while retaining the emotional core that made them special in the first place.
Of Monsters And Men's influence extends far beyond their impressive sales figures and streaming numbers. They've helped pave the way for a new generation of Nordic artists to find international success, while their visual aesthetic – often featuring mystical creatures and otherworldly landscapes – has influenced everything from fashion to film soundtracks. Their music has provided the soundtrack to countless television shows, films, and commercials, with "Little Talks" alone becoming a cultural touchstone that continues to resonate with new audiences.
The band's live performances are legendary affairs, transforming their recorded material into communal celebrations that feel more like spiritual gatherings than traditional concerts. Their ability to connect with audiences across cultural and linguistic barriers speaks to the universal appeal of their musical storytelling.
While the band has remained relatively quiet in recent years, focusing on individual projects and personal growth, their legacy as pioneers of modern folk-pop remains secure. Of Monsters And Men proved that music from the world's edges could conquer its center, creating a template for authentic, emotionally resonant pop music that continues to influence artists worldwide. In an era of manufactured pop perfection, they reminded us that the most powerful songs often come from the most unexpected places.
