Of Monsters and Men

Here’s event page content for Of Monsters and Men at Bristol Beacon, crafted to meet your requirements:

---

Of Monsters and Men Live at Bristol Beacon

About the Event

Prepare for an evening of anthemic indie folk and soaring vocals as the beloved Icelandic quartet, Of Monsters and Men, descend upon the magnificent Bristol Beacon. On Saturday, 21 February 2026, this celebrated band will transform the historic Bristol venue into a tapestry of powerful melodies and unforgettable stage presence. This is more than just a concert; it’s an opportunity to witness a band at the zenith of their artistic powers, sharing their expansive soundscapes and heartfelt narratives with an audience eager to be swept away by their unique magic. From their breakout success to their continued evolution, Of Monsters and Men consistently deliver performances that resonate deeply, and this Bristol date promises to be a truly special occasion, a beacon of vibrant music in the heart of the city.

About Of Monsters and Men

Emerging from Reykjavík in 2010, Of Monsters and Men quickly captured the world’s attention with their distinctive blend of folk instrumentation, anthemic choruses, and the captivating interplay of male and female vocals. Comprising Nanna Bryndís Hilmarsdóttir, Ragnar Þórhallsson, Brynjar Leifsson, Arnar Rósenkranz Hilmarsson, and Árni Guðjónsson (though Árni has since stepped back from touring), the band’s formation was born from a desire to create music that was both grand and intimate. Their debut album, My Head Is an Animal (2011), propelled them to international stardom, driven by the infectious and universally loved singles “Little Talks” and “Mountain Sound.” These tracks, with their driving rhythms, singalong choruses, and vivid lyrical imagery, became instant global hits, showcasing the band’s knack for crafting universally appealing yet distinctively Icelandic tunes.

The band continued to hone their craft with subsequent releases. Beneath the Skin (2015) explored a more mature and introspective sound, featuring powerful tracks like “Crystals” and “Empire.” Their third album, Fever Dream (2019), saw them embracing a bolder, more experimental approach, incorporating electronic elements and a more polished production, evident in singles such as “Alligator” and “Wars.” Throughout their career, Of Monsters and Men have been lauded for their unwavering commitment to their artistic vision, consistently evolving their sound while retaining the core elements that have endeared them to millions. Their live performances are a testament to this evolution, renowned for their energetic delivery, the sheer power of their collective sound, and their ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level, creating a shared experience that lingers long after the final note.

Venue Information

Bristol Beacon is a world-class music venue situated in the heart of Bristol. Recently reimagined and reopened, it boasts state-of-the-art acoustics and a variety of stunning performance spaces, designed to provide an exceptional experience for both artists and audiences. The venue is committed to bringing diverse and high-quality musical performances to the South West, fostering a vibrant cultural hub for the city. For complete venue details, including accessibility information, directions, and nearby amenities, please see our venue guide.

What to Expect

When Of Monsters and Men take to the stage at Bristol Beacon, you can anticipate an evening brimming with energy, emotion, and an undeniable sense of shared celebration. Their setlists are a masterclass in weaving together their most beloved hits with newer material and perhaps even a few surprises. Expect to be swept away by the sheer force of “Little Talks,” a track that has become a modern anthem and is guaranteed to ignite the crowd into a joyous singalong. Likewise, the driving rhythm and uplifting spirit of “Mountain Sound” will undoubtedly have you on your feet, a testament to the band’s infectious ability to forge an instant connection.

Beyond their chart-topping singles, you’ll also experience the raw power and emotional depth of tracks like “Crystals,” where Nanna Bryndís Hilmarsdóttir’s ethereal vocals soar, contrasted by Ragnar Þórhallsson’s grounding presence. The more recent, pulsating energy of “Alligator” from Fever Dream will showcase their continued artistic growth, a testament to their willingness to push boundaries and explore new sonic territories. The performance style of Of Monsters and Men is renowned for its authenticity and passion. They don’t just play music; they inhabit it. The stage presence is a dynamic interplay of the vocalists, a visual and auditory dance that reflects the collaborative spirit at the heart of the band. Expect moments of quiet intensity, where the raw emotion of their lyrics takes centre stage, followed by explosive bursts of collective sound that build to a euphoric crescendo. The musicianship is of the highest calibre, with each member contributing their unique instrumental prowess to create the rich tapestry of their sound, from driving acoustic guitars and folk-inspired percussion to swelling synths and layered harmonies.

The duration of the concert is expected to be approximately two hours, including an interval, allowing ample time for the band to deliver a comprehensive journey through their impressive catalogue. Prepare for an immersive experience where the music transcends the ordinary, fostering a palpable sense of unity within the audience. This is a performance that engages all the senses, leaving you with a profound sense of exhilaration and a renewed appreciation for the art of live music.

FAQs

Q1: What is the typical setlist like for an Of Monsters and Men concert?

Of Monsters and Men are known for crafting dynamic setlists that blend their most iconic hits with deeper cuts from their albums and newer material. Audiences can generally expect to hear crowd-pleasers such as “Little Talks,” “Mountain Sound,” and “Empire.” They also often incorporate popular tracks from their latest albums, like “Alligator” and “Wars,” showcasing their evolving sound. The setlist is usually a carefully curated journey, balancing energetic anthems with more introspective and emotionally resonant pieces, ensuring a diverse and engaging experience for fans of all eras of their music.

Q2: How would you describe the performance style of Of Monsters and Men?

The performance style of Of Monsters and Men is characterized by its raw energy, authentic passion, and the captivating interplay between their vocalists, Nanna Bryndís Hilmarsdóttir and Ragnar Þórhallsson. They are known for their dynamic stage presence, often building from moments of quiet intensity to powerful, anthemic crescendos. The collective musicianship is a key element, with each member contributing to the rich, layered soundscape. They create an atmosphere that is both intimate and grand, fostering a strong connection with their audience through their heartfelt delivery and engaging stagecraft.

Q3: Are there any specific songs that are audience favourites that are almost always played live?

Absolutely. “Little Talks” is undeniably their most universally recognized and cherished song, and it is virtually a guarantee that you will hear this during their live shows, often as a show-stopping finale or a peak moment. “Mountain Sound” is another track that consistently ignivates the crowd and is a staple of their live set. Beyond these, fan favourites from across their discography, such as “Crystals” and “King and Lionheart,” are also frequently included and met with enthusiastic reception.

Q4: Is Of Monsters and Men an interactive band with their audience during shows?

While Of Monsters and Men primarily focus on delivering their musical performance with immense energy and passion, they do foster a connection with their audience. The power of their collective singing during songs often feels like an audience participation moment in itself. The vocalists engage with the crowd through their presence and often express gratitude for the reception, creating a sense of shared experience rather than direct conversational interaction. The music itself is the primary conduit for connection.

Q5: What is the typical duration of an Of Monsters and Men concert?

A typical Of Monsters and Men concert usually lasts for approximately two hours. This duration typically includes a short interval, allowing the band to take a brief break and for the audience to refresh themselves before the second half of the performance. This timeframe allows them to cover a substantial portion of their discography, delivering a comprehensive and satisfying musical journey for attendees.

Q6: Do Of Monsters and Men have distinct musical phases that are evident in their live shows?

Yes, their live shows often reflect the evolution of their musical journey. While they always aim to deliver a cohesive performance, you can often discern elements from their different albums. For instance, their earlier sets might heavily feature the more folk-driven anthems of My Head Is an Animal, whereas more recent tours will prominently include the bolder, more experimental sounds found on Fever Dream and Beneath the Skin. This blend allows them to showcase their growth as artists while still honouring the music that first brought them global acclaim.

---