Of Monsters and Men

Of Monsters and Men Live at Ancienne Belgique, Bruxelles

Tuesday, 3 March 2026

About the Event

Prepare for an unforgettable evening as the critically acclaimed Icelandic folk-rock ensemble, Of Monsters and Men, graces the historic stage of Ancienne Belgique in Bruxelles on Tuesday, 3 March 2026. This is not merely a concert; it’s an immersion into a world of soaring melodies, poignant storytelling, and electrifying stage presence. Known for their ability to weave intricate lyrical narratives with anthemic folk-rock instrumentation, Of Monsters and Men promise a performance that will resonate long after the final note fades. This special engagement offers fans in Belgium and surrounding regions a rare opportunity to experience the magic of their live show in one of Europe’s most iconic and intimate music venues. Expect an evening filled with the raw emotion and triumphant crescendos that have become the hallmark of this beloved band.

About Of Monsters and Men

Since their emergence from the vibrant Reykjavik music scene in 2010, Of Monsters and Men have captivated global audiences with their distinctive blend of indie folk, anthemic rock, and a touch of Nordic mystique. Formed by Nanna Bryndís Hilmarsdóttir, Ragnar Þórhallsson, and later joined by Árni Guðjónsson, Brynjar Leifsson, Kristján Páll Kristjánsson, and Arnar Rósenkranz, the band quickly established themselves as a formidable force. Their debut album, My Head Is an Animal (2011), catapulted them to international stardom, propelled by the infectious energy of singles like “Little Talks” and “Dirty Paws.” These tracks, characterised by their rousing singalong choruses, dual vocal harmonies between Nanna and Ragnar, and a rich tapestry of acoustic and electric instrumentation, became instant global hits, earning platinum certifications in numerous countries.

The band’s subsequent albums, including Beneath the Skin (2015) and Fever Dream (2019), showcased their artistic evolution, delving into more complex lyrical themes and exploring diverse sonic landscapes while retaining their signature sound. Beneath the Skin offered a more introspective and mature perspective, featuring powerful tracks such as “Crystals” and “Empire.” Fever Dream, on the other hand, embraced a more experimental and electronic edge, demonstrating the band’s willingness to push creative boundaries with tracks like “Alligator” and “Wars.” Throughout their career, Of Monsters and Men have consistently delivered performances marked by their boundless energy, genuine connection with their audience, and a palpable sense of shared experience. Their live shows are a testament to their enduring appeal, reaffirming their status as one of the most compelling contemporary folk-rock acts.

Venue Information

Ancienne Belgique, affectionately known as AB, stands as a legendary institution in the heart of Bruxelles, a city renowned for its rich cultural tapestry. Located centrally, this historic venue has been a cornerstone of the Belgian music scene for decades, hosting an unparalleled array of international and local artists across all genres. AB boasts a unique atmosphere, blending historical architectural grandeur with modern acoustics, creating an intimate yet powerful environment for live performances. The main hall, with its distinctive design, allows for an immersive concert experience, ensuring that every patron feels connected to the music and the artists on stage. From its humble beginnings, AB has evolved into a world-class concert hall, celebrated for its commitment to artistic excellence and its role in shaping musical history. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare yourself for a performance that embodies the very essence of Of Monsters and Men: an exhilarating journey through their cherished discography, delivered with unparalleled passion and raw energy. The band is renowned for crafting setlists that strike a perfect balance between their most beloved anthems and deeper cuts, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience for both long-time devotees and newcomers alike. Expect to be swept away by the infectious euphoria of “Little Talks,” a track that invariably ignites a sea of raised hands and unified singing. Likewise, the soaring, optimistic spirit of “Dirty Paws” is guaranteed to create a palpable sense of communal joy.

Beyond these iconic hits, the setlist will likely delve into the more emotionally resonant narratives of Beneath the Skin, with tracks like the empowering “Crystals” or the hauntingly beautiful “I Of The Storm” providing moments of profound introspection. Fans of their more recent work will be treated to the vibrant energy of Fever Dream, with the pulsating beats of “Alligator” or the driving rhythm of “Wars” showcasing the band’s ongoing artistic exploration. Of Monsters and Men are masters of dynamic performance. Their stage presence is characterised by a genuine and uninhibited enthusiasm; Nanna and Ragnar’s intertwined vocals, often moving across the stage and interacting with the band, create a magnetic focal point. The ensemble’s musicianship is exceptional, with layers of acoustic and electric guitars, driving percussion, and often a breadth of additional instrumentation adding depth and texture to their sound.

The concert is anticipated to last approximately 90-110 minutes, a duration that allows the band to explore a comprehensive range of their material without compromise. This is not a passive listening experience; Of Monsters and Men actively encourage audience participation, fostering an environment where the crowd becomes an integral part of the performance. Prepare for moments of intimate balladry that draw you in, followed swiftly by explosions of folk-rock exuberance that demand you move. The interplay of light and sound is also a crucial element of their shows, often building to a breathtaking crescendo that leaves the audience spellbound. In essence, seeing Of Monsters and Men live is to witness a band operating at the peak of their creative and performative powers, delivering a show that is both deeply personal and universally uplifting.

FAQs

• Will Of Monsters and Men play “Little Talks” at the Bruxelles show? Absolutely. “Little Talks” is one of their most iconic and beloved tracks, and it is a staple of their live setlists. It’s virtually guaranteed to be performed, often serving as a powerful moment for audience singalongs.

• Can I expect to hear songs from their latest album, Fever Dream, during the concert? Yes, Of Monsters and Men typically integrate songs from their most recent studio albums into their live performances. You can certainly expect to hear selections from Fever Dream, showcasing their evolved sound alongside their classic material.

• How long is the typical setlist for an Of Monsters and Men concert? An Of Monsters and Men concert typically runs for approximately 90 to 110 minutes. This allows them ample time to perform a comprehensive selection of their popular hits, as well as tracks from their more recent albums.

• Are there any specific merchandise items that Of Monsters and Men usually sell at their concerts? While merchandise offerings can vary, you can generally expect to find band t-shirts, hoodies, posters, and sometimes vinyl records of their albums available for purchase at their shows. Specific items are best confirmed on the day of the event.

• Does Of Monsters and Men interact with the audience during their performances? Yes, Of Monsters and Men are known for their engaging and interactive stage presence. The band members, particularly Nanna and Ragnar, frequently interact with the crowd, encouraging singalongs and fostering a strong sense of connection.

• What is the typical atmosphere of an Of Monsters and Men live show? Their live shows are characterised by a dynamic and energetic atmosphere. They blend anthemic, uplifting folk-rock with moments of heartfelt intimacy, creating a communal and often euphoric experience for the audience. Expect a lot of enthusiastic singing and dancing.