I was a later comer to the world of Sigur Ros. It was about 6 years ago that I heard ‘Svefn-g-englar’ and it was a turning point in my life. Few artists have truly shaken me to my very core, but Sigur Ros are probably my favourite band of all time.

I desperately starting investigating everything about them, their back catalogue, bootlegs, collaborations and every single piece of material did not disappoint. After discovering their Icelandic background and their affinity with my beloved Bjork I fell head over heels in love.

Like other significant bands in my life they have provided a soundtrack to some of the most important moments to take place. From being in love to heartbreak to filthy rage to the worst loneliness they have been my comfort and whilst they have sometimes amplified the emotions that have taken place, they have done so for the right reasons.

‘Saeglopur’ is without a doubt one of, if not my favourite song of all time. Godly tribal drums, the crying wails of bowed guitars, the beatific vocals of Jonsi all build to the best crescendo I have ever experienced. It is by far in terms of music one moment that became almost too much to bear. ‘Tak’k was a notable release for the band given the previous album releases in that it brought a lot of the mainstream attention to them. For die hard fans like myself I both loved and loathed this. Sitting on a Saturday night to hear ‘Glosoli’ accompany an X Factor sob story is not something I took easily, but it did mean that the band were catapulted into the ears of people.

Jonsi and Co are the most incredible performers I have seen. As percussionists alone they are mesmerising, I always find myself looking at every single player to try and figure out exactly how they create a sound that makes me put my hand to my mouth to stop the whimpers of shock escaping.

Tonight sees INNI come to Glasgow’s Oran Mor. The film will be screened in the auditorium of the venue, a setting that could not be more fitting. It is the second film from the band following their 2007 documentary Heima. Heima was cinematic euphoria, tracks such as ‘Untitled 8’ showed exactly how poignant and vital this band are. Every shot was as if it was planned for decades beforehand. From A Stolen Sea are the brilliant folks behind bringing INNI to Glasgow and Frightened Rabbit’s Scott Hutchison (another important musician for me) will be performing live.

I will never have enough words to describe my love for this band. I suppose I will always be that love sick teenager that worships the ground they walk on. All I do know is that they have helped change my life.

Halina Rifai

Venue: Oran Mor Auditorium, Glasgow
Time: 7pm
Tickets: https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/202328 (£12.50 + booking fee) or on the door priced £15