Treating its fans to several unheard and live tracks, Sigur Rós’ double album, Hvarf-Heim, is an exquisite look back on vacancies in their catalog while also full of acoustic takes on some of their most endearing tracks. As far as albums of “extra” material or live cuts go, it seems painstakingly compiled, and each track makes up for any lost time. Over an hour of material, comprised of two discs, Hvarf and Heim, is as essential to the Sigur Rós collection as any other release and includes tracks from the mid-90’s as well as those recorded in 2007.
Hvarf begins with 2002’s “Salka”, a tumultuous electric song that begins elegantly then slowly pounds out an weathered climax. Guitars flicker throughout, while a stomping rhythm ultimately drives the track into a storm of vocals and cymbals. Next is “Hljómalind”, from 1999, that’s one of the band’s most alt-rock tracks, thanks to a galloping drum track, and explosive segmentation. “í gær” is a calm, lounge vibe interspersed with heavily-effected crashes of guitars in one of their starkest efforts. A stoically calm reworking of “Von” is a moving take on the track that has an acoustic version on the second disc as well. Hvarf ends with “Hafsól” from 1995, that finishes in easily one of the most furious movements in the band’s recorded history.
Heim, which is full of live, acoustic cuts of released material, begins with the poignant, circular piano build of “Samskeyti”. Their rendition of “Starálfur” recalls one of the most engaging moments of 1999’s Ágætis byrjun. “Vaka” is a bare version of the original, with Jónsi Birgisson’s vocals sounding like he’s standing right next to you. The pattering snare and piano riff on “Ágætis Byrjun” is a more complete version, even including string scratches. “Heysátan” is viciously quiet, teasing the senses with the slow heartbeat of a reluctant piano, hints of brass, and Jónsi’s vocals. Strings finally bring “Von” and the album to a smooth ending, fading out on the band’s signature delicacy.
Both the new and reworked Sigur Rós material on Hvarf-Heim make it an enticing endeavor, and its shines on both sides. Superb acoustic takes of familiar issues, and compelling previously-unreleased tracks make it a true holiday bonus.
