On My Playlist: Top 5 Of Monsters and Men songs

This year will see the first band from Iceland tour South Africa, when the popular Scandinavian Indie-Folk band, Of Monsters and Men, make a visit. The band received critical acclaim, after their debut album My Head Is an Animal which was released in 2011. This fantastic album contained the smash hit, “Little Talks” that was replayed on numerous radio stations across the world. Their newest album, Beneath the Skin, presents something different and deeper but just as enjoyable. Having headlined at major festivals such as Pukkelpop, Glastonbury and Reading, the five-piece has shown they know what it takes to give a fantastic show.
1. Little Talks
Of Monsters and Men’s hit song is still their best song with the catchy trumpet and accordion intro to the duet in the verse and the catchy chorus with the repeated “heys” that have made this song so fantastic. The best part of the lyrics is, “There is an old voice in my head that’s keeping me back”, and, “Well, tell her that I miss our little talks” is a great musical display of this band’s writing talent.

2. Human
The intro featured a darker tone with “ooh” and “aah” meandering along the icy guitar riff. The verse and chorus are absolutely amazing with the words speaking to one’s soul. “Breathe in breathe out, let the human in” is one of the greatest lyrical writings in this genre. An underrated masterpiece.

3. Dirty Paws
The first track on their debut album is known for its catchy acoustic intro followed by the story-like lyrics that dominate the song. “Once there was an animal, it had a son who mowed the lawn. His son was an okay guy, they had a pet dragonfly. The dragonfly ran away but came back with a story to say.”
These are just some of the fairytale lyrics of these songs that take on the form of a legend or fable. A truly fantastic musical song, with piano elements and catchy drumming that keep the steady and quick pace of the song.

4. Lakehouse
Lakehouse is a true fan favourite that depicts the band’s roots in Iceland and the surroundings they grew up in. The duet between the male (Ragnar Porhallsson) and female lead vocalist (Nanna Hilmarsdottir) is absolutely inspiring. The slow guitar picking followed by the whole band joining in is some-thing to hear. The song also ends off with a recognisable sing-along chorus made up of la-la-las.

5. I Of The Storm
The first thing that catches your attention is the pulsating snare drum intro with a few off-beat hits. Nanna’s voice then shines through like a ray of sunshine as she sings contemplatively of the troubles in her life as an individual in the world.