What makes In the Silence by Ásgeir Trausti notable?

This album received widespread acclaim, debuting at number one on the Icelandic charts and earning praise from international critics. It was also nominated for several awards, including the prestigious Nordic Music Prize, marking Ásgeir as a significant emerging artist in contemporary folk music. In the Silence is Ásgeir Trausti's debut album, released in 2013 when he was only 20 years old. Prior to this album, he had gained attention in Iceland for his unique blend of folk and pop elements, positioning him as a fresh voice in the music scene.

Who is In the Silence for?

In the Silence works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective listening, hauntingly beautiful melodic moments and introspective sound for quiet times.

How many songs are on In the Silence?

In the Silence has 10 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Released 13 years ago this October

In the Silence

Ásgeir Trausti · 2013

39 min · 10 tracks · traditional folk music

Ethereal melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a hauntingly beautiful sound that echoes the Icelandic landscape.

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Top tracks — play these first

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King and Cross — This track stands out for its captivating blend of traditional folk instrumentation and modern electronic influences, showcasing Ásgeir's innovative approach to songwriting.
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In the Silence — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of introspection and solitude, featuring haunting vocals layered over minimalist arrangements that draw listeners into a reflective space.
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Higher — Opening with a delicate acoustic guitar melody, this song captures the essence of hope and longing, setting the emotional tone for the rest of the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album combines traditional and modern elements effectively, showcasing strong melodies and cohesive themes.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature layered vocal harmonies that build gradually, creating a lush soundscape.
Several songs incorporate traditional folk instruments alongside modern production techniques, blending the old with the new.
The album's pacing varies, with slower ballads interspersed with more upbeat tracks, but it maintains a reflective mood throughout.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo reflective listening
hauntingly beautiful melodic moments
introspective sound for quiet times
for solitary afternoons

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy tracks
prefer upbeat party music

Where this album fits

Career context: In the Silence is Ásgeir Trausti's debut album, released in 2013 when he was only 20 years old. Prior to this album, he had gained attention in Iceland for his unique blend of folk and pop elements, positioning him as a fresh voice in the music scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Sufjan Stevens· Iron & Wine· José González