Visual goodness by Sigur Rós

A good amount of time ago I remember trying to write a very long, thought-through piece for this blog about the importance of what visually accompanies music. I never finished it but some of the experiences I've had lately has led my thoughts in the direction of maybe trying to get it written anyway. As mentioned, the new Blur documentary was a visual delight, and today I saw another great music + visual combo - the Sigur Rós film 'Heima'. It is a very special band film, since its breathtaking visuals document so much more than just a band. The film is as beautiful as anything you'll see, as Sigur Rós tour their homeland of Iceland with free, unannounced gigs and anecdotes regarding the island. I have wanted to go to Iceland for a number of years and my interest was definitely increased even more by this film. The nature, the people and all those things that seem so special about Iceland is brought to us by a band that sounds exactly the way I would imagine the island sounding had it been a sound. Also, I really appreciate the fact that this film actually seems to understand that watching a group of children flying kites is a just as appropriate visual while listening to Sigur Rós as an image of the band on stage (even though that is also a quite intriguing sight). The YouTube snippets don't do the film that much justice, so I really do recommend getting your hands on a DVD version. Then get some chocolate, a cup of tea, a duvet and something nice and comfy to sit on and watch. I guarantee it'll make the winter seem less depressing.