Efterklang Springer

• Words: Patrick Sisson
• Label: Leaf
• XLR8R Rating: /10

Originally released in 2003 on Efterklang's own Rumraket label, Springer sounds like a Sigur Rós reissue. The sonic similarities between both bands' approaches are so striking that Efterklang's songs-all of which contain English lyrics-could easily be mistaken for translations of the Icelandic group's originals. The twinkling bells, gloomy singing, and epic endings on songs like "Kloy Gun" follow the formula perfectly, the only deviation being a penchant for glitchy, electronic production reminiscent of Telefon Tel Aviv. That being said, Springer is a collection of lush, gorgeous songs. Any band, even Sigur Rós, would be happy to have recorded them.