In the Silence
The legend is already growing. It’s said that one in 10 Icelanders owns a copy of *In the Silence*, making Asgeir Trausti the fastest-selling artist in Iceland, ahead of Sigur Ros and Björk. His bright \"folktronica\" is dominated by surprising, pretty melodies and light, airy beats. “Summer Guest” flows with an indelible hook, and “King and Cross” positively *bounces* with joy in its step. Singer/songwriter John Grant translated the lyrics into English for the U.S. version of the album—and if they sound particularly experienced, consider that Asgeir’s 72-year-old father, Einar Georg Einarsson, was among the team of writers for the 20-year-old sensation. “Head in the Snow” displays a bit of *The Shining* in its stir-crazy winter assessment that “biting cold takes its toll on the body.” Sure, the vocal and orchestral beauty of “Torrent” fulfills the Bon Iver comparisons that are obviously deserved, but they aren\'t the entire picture by any means. Asgeir’s melancholy is his own, after all, and songs like “Was There Nothing?” and “Going Home” pulse with a personal, unique sense. The album closer—the gorgeous “Sooth This Pain”—is an iTunes bonus exclusive.
Even though it's a translation rather than a full collection of new material, In The Silence still possesses a certain magic for those already acquainted with his output.
For a wee windswept rock, Iceland has a mighty musical heart. Its latest export, Ásgeir Trausti, looking like a cross between Daniel Brühl and the Norse god Thor, is smashing records set by label-mates and fellow islanders Björk and Sigur Rós. His snappily-titled first LP Dryd í dauðaþögn is the country’s best-selling debut from a local, and In The Silence is its wholesale translation, re-recorded in English (with the help of John Grant, no less).
Album review: Ásgeir - 'In The Silence'. Compared to Bon Iver, and with a little help from John Grant, the Icelandic singer's debut leaves a decent impression...
<p>Ásgeir's contemplative debut album could make him the biggest Icelandic musical export yet, writes <strong>Kitty Empire</strong></p>
<p>Ásgeir Trausti's debut album shines brightest when it ditches the twee indie-folk in favour of jarring electronica, writes <strong>Alexis Petridis</strong></p>