Recorded at the end of the band’s 2008 tour promoting Með Suð Í Eyrum Við Spilum Endalaust, INNI pulls heavily from that album and its predecessor, 2005’s Takk, giving shorter shrift to Sigur Ros’ early catalog. These later albums showcased a growth in the band’s sonic approach, with the icy, alien ambience of the early work morphing into sweeping orchestral epics. For this tour, though, the band bypassed these embellishments (including string quartet and tourmates Amiina), an approach that brings Sigur Ros back to the droning, ethereal beauty that grew its popularity in the first place.
Fans who lamented the band's shift will be rewarded, but those drawn to the fuller arrangements might find some songs lacking in splendor. “Svefn-g-englar” from Ágætis Byrjun still sounds heavenly, though, with Jónsi’s croon gliding atop hazy, distorted guitars while “E-bow,” from 2003’s ( ) retains its majestic drone. Only Takk’s “Hoppipolla,” perhaps the most triumphant song the band has ever recorded, falls flat, lacking the exuberance of the recorded version once it’s stripped of its orchestral trappings. It’s a small bump, though, in an otherwise first-rate presentation. Fans can only hope it’s not the last live document produced by Sigur Ros.
