Two decades have passed since Icelandic post-rock pioneers Sigur Rós released their groundbreaking fourth studio album, *Takk…*, which first captivated listeners on September 12, 2005, when it debuted internationally through EMI, followed by its U.S. release via Geffen Records the next day.
The 65-minute masterpiece, consisting of 11 meticulously crafted tracks, quickly established itself as a commercial success, debuting at number 27 on the Billboard 200 and selling 30,000 copies in its first week while simultaneously claiming the top spot on Iceland’s charts.
Upon release, Takk… conquered Icelandic charts while making an impressive Billboard debut, selling 30,000 copies in its first week.
Now ranked as the band’s second-best album on BestEverAlbums.com with an impressive Bayesian average of 81.7/100, *Takk…* masterfully blends Icelandic lyrics with the band’s invented nonsensical language, Vonlenska (Hopelandic), particularly evident in tracks like “Andvari,” “Gong,” and “Mílanó.”
The album’s success was buoyed by three singles: “Glósóli” and “Sæglópur,” both released in August 2005, and the particularly impactful “Hoppípolla,” which reached number 35 on UK charts in November 2005 before climbing to number 24 upon re-release in May 2006.
Recorded during 2004-2005 at the band’s Sundlaugin studio in Álafoss, Iceland, *Takk…* showcases the production expertise of both Sigur Rós and co-producer Ken Thomas.
The album’s complex rhythmic structures—exemplified by “Andvari” with its melody cycling every 27 beats—and collaboration with string quartet Amiina on “Mílanó” demonstrate the band’s technical prowess and artistic ambition. The band received three Icelandic Music Awards in 2006, further cementing the album’s critical and cultural significance.
To commemorate this milestone anniversary, Sigur Rós is offering fans unprecedented access to the creative process behind *Takk…* through the release of previously unheard B-sides and rarities. The band has successfully diversified their revenue through sync deals for several tracks from the album, which have been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials over the years. The album’s unique sound combines high-flown ideas with pop music elements, creating a distinctive atmospheric experience that continues to influence artists today.
These retrospective releases provide invaluable insight into the band’s artistic journey during a period that notably expanded their international recognition and cemented their status as influential figures in experimental rock. Modern fans can now access the full Takk… collection across streaming platforms where the band has established a significant presence through carefully curated artist profiles.
Twenty years later, tracks from *Takk…* remain staples in the band’s live performances and continue to resonate throughout contemporary post-rock and ambient music.
