Go

Jonsi
Go
8.5 out of 10

Although it appears Sigur Ros is on permanent hiatus for the time being, Jonsi (Jon Thor Birgisson) is still putting out music with the aid of his partner Alex Somers and modern composer/arranger Nico Mulhy. Because Jonsi is the voice of Sigur Ros, there will always be similarities with his solo work and his band's. However, instead of making the sweeping and grand music that Sigur Ros is known for, Jonsi does show his individuality by performing a majority of songs that are upbeat and downright playful.

This is no more so evident than on the first song and single "Go Do:"



Under tribal drums, flutes and woodwinds, and Jonsi's charming voice, he sings one of the most uplifting songs I have heard in a long time. It could be argued it is too childlike, but I think that is what makes it so endearing. And I love the lyrics:

"You wish surprise would never stop wonders
You wish sunrise would never fall under
We should always know that we can do anything

Go do!"

The delight continues with songs like "Animal Arithmetic," which is sung at such a clip it could almost be considered Icelandic rap; and "Boy Lilikoi," which has the atmosphere of a children's nursery rhyme set to song.





I love the play of the drums and pianos and Jonsi's sweet tenor in "Around Us."



"There's songs, sounds you bring to us
You pin both the wings on us
I hear, I see you sing for us
You go tie a string around us"

Of course, there are several more low-key songs. But they are still different from Sigur Ros in that the intimacy is more bracing. A lot of it comes from Jonsi's willingness to sing most of the songs in English. It allows for a deeper connection with the listener.

"Tornado" is especially poignant and lovely.



And the soaring, emotional "Sinking Friendships."



"We're swimming in the blue
Nigh misfortune
Lively like a glue
My eyes are soaked all way through

Our sinking friendships
We drown them all"

My only complaint with Go is that Jonsi relied too heavily on the somber tracks. The upbeat songs were such a departure, that it would have made for a significant departure from the Sigur Ros legacy. The album ends on two very Sigur Ros-like tracks and sort of kills the momentum. Aside from this minor quibble, Go is a phenomenal cd and comes highly recommended. I also suggest you go see him live if you have the chance as he puts on an amazing show.