"Beautiful melodies incorporating classical instruments-- one difference though, Piano, Cello actually breathes soul, individuality and mystery, As if one can actually hear the artist's heartbeat behind each instrument. These melodies can be describe as bridges into the subconscious. Beware-- may induce ecstatic states of consciousness, transporting the listener to unknown territories. Just like its untouched, barren land, Iceland proves once again that it is a detached haven for creative artists who blending innovation, edginess with sacredness have become part of their DNA."
Fantastic
Santidiablo | Chicago | 09/28/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I definitely wish I had a better understanding of music history, theory, and the relationships between differing genres so that I could convey to you in a meaningful way just how good this album is. Piano and accompanying instruments that communicate feeling. It's difficult to accurately say how different each track is from the next because if you're not listening, you might just gloss over it but it's definitely been an album that I don't get tired of listening to when I'm either drawing, reading, editing files, or just thinking. I definitely think this is one of those albums that's worth the money."
Breathtaking
Jacy | Ann Arbor, Michigan | 05/03/2010
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This music will change you. It can induce in you and describe to you the whole spectrum of human emotions at the same time. It is unbelievable. My go to music for whatever I am feeling. It is the music I play for my 18-month-old to go to sleep too and the music I play in my car to calm down after a stressful day. It is one of those compilations were you can be perfectley content to just sit and listen to the whole cd without moving of doing a thing. I have never heard better music. I would give it 20 stars if I could. The composer is a genuis."
Breathtaking! An Almost Spiritual Experience!
Thomas | 03/06/2010
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Again, I don't have the vocabulary to explain this album in musical terms, but if you like music that moves your spirit, touches your emotions, and soothes your soul, get this CD.
The music of Ólafur Arnalds may be closer to classical music than any other genre, but it seems more contemporary somehow.
This album features primarily piano, violin and cello, with occasional contributions from guitar, percussion and other instruments. This was the first release by Ólafur Arnalds, and if you've heard other music from Mr. Arnalds and like it, this CD will not disappoint.
Ólafur Arnalds' music will move your spirit without jangling your nerves, although it may give you the occasional case of goosebumps. You really do owe it to yourself to take a listen."