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8) The Blood - Reykjavik! Admittedly, I really didn’t know what I was getting myself into with this one. Advertised under the category of “Icelandic Pop” in a certain online music store, I was expecting light and airy pop akin to Sigur Ros. The snowcapped mountains on the cover didn’t do anything to deter this notion either (okay, perhaps the graves should have tipped me off). Needless to say, the first listen for me was somewhat of a shock. Reykjavik! makes unnerving, uncompromising, and LOUD indie rock that can only be described as a cross between death metal and dance pop. From the intense build that opens the first track, to the knock your socks off finale, the album is solid and non-stop. Not a second wasted and not one chance to catch you breath. Especially excellent is the ironically named “Kate Bush”, the Modest Mouse-ian (before they sold out) “Aeji Plis”, and the accessible “Campo Veijo 2004”. The entire album, however, is a spiraling achievement that warps your senses. Although it may be a bit too much for some, The Blood is well worth seeking out for those looking for dash of grit and originality in their indie rock.
johngalt7979’s Journal – Top Ten Albums of 2009 – Last.fm