Icelandic group Of Monsters and Men reaped the beginnings of their success with “Little Talks,” a folk-pop chart-topper that made them a household name. Nearly seven years later, they’ve entered metamorphosis with their third album Fever Dream. When well-established artists alter their style, it becomes tricky—fans grow accustomed to their usual sound and bask in that security.
With Fever Dream, the band ventures into pop-rock territory. When they delivered the first taste of what was to come with their lead single “Alligator,” it revealed the possibility for a fast-paced, pop-laced LP. It turned out to be an overflowing variety of emotional ballads and dancehall rock.
“Ahay” is a slow-jam track exploring the deep emotional secrets of love that eventually transitions into questionable regrets in “Waiting for the Snow.” Lead singer Nanna Bryndís Hilmarsdóttir pleadingly croons, “Have I said too much? // Did I love too hard?// This steel can’t carry me now that things are rough // Now, what can you offer me?” Her emotions shine through as the electronic beats linger in the background. The group maintains an air of mystery in “Vulture, Vulture,” comparing themselves to a desert island and approaching the topic of looming darkness.
Of Monsters and Men dabble in a sound that presents hope. Despite the constant theme of restless heartbreak, “Stuck in Gravity” revels in a softer side. While they beg for something more, the listener gets a sense that they’ll eventually discover what’s missing. Unlike the quintet’s signature indie-folk sound, the track dives headfirst into a synth-heavy beat. The album effortlessly transcends further with “Under a Dome,” using haunting electro-infused vocals to weave a story about falling headfirst into love.
The LP’s conclusion is just as strong as its beginning. “Soothsayer” offers Hilmarsdóttir’s angelic voice as she begs for her significant other to stick by her side. It’s a powerful end to an innovative pop-rock album and a brave statement to the band’s development. While their trademark style has shifted slightly throughout Fever Dream, the elements of their success still persist in the foreground. The band’s lyrics remain doused in vulnerability and frolic in bubblegum pop glory.
Bands undergo change routinely—sometimes it’s needed in an industry that becomes dry with copycat acts. Of Monsters and Men transformed themselves after seven years of success and treading in a dangerous comfort-zone bubble. Fever Dream only proves the band’s creative growth and what they’re capable of.
Stream Of Monsters and Men’s new album Fever Dream here.
Featured image source: Instagram (@ofmonstersandmen)
