Icelandic singer-songwriter Sæfari has emerged from the wilderness of a decade-long songwriting hiatus with, Wolfheart, a debut album that is both a triumphant return and an astonishing artistic statement. Seamlessly weaving together alternative, folk, indie rock, pop, and punk influences, Wolfheart, captures the raw, unfiltered essence of human emotion, set against a backdrop of lush instrumentation and evocative soundscapes.
Sæfari’s collaboration with renowned Icelandic producer Sigurður Guðmundsson is central to the album’s sonic identity. Together, they’ve built a sound that balances intimacy and grandeur, layering acoustic and steel guitars, piano, synthesisers, strings, and even a Hammond organ into a rich, cinematic tapestry. Mixing by Marco Pasquariello and mastering by Guy Davie further elevate the production, enhancing the album’s haunting clarity and emotional resonance.
Thematically, Wolfheart, plunges into the depths of heartbreak, loss, and longing, exploring universal human experiences with a deeply personal lens. In tracks like “True Love,” Sæfari’s delicate vocals cut through an atmosphere of melancholic beauty, reminiscent of his inspirations, including Nick Cave and Jeff Buckley. His lyricism is as vulnerable as it is poetic, painting vivid pictures of love’s fragility and life’s transient nature.
What makes, Wolfheart, remarkable is its tonal diversity. One moment, it broods with the stark emotional intensity of PJ Harvey; the next, it veers into the wistful melodies and stripped-back honesty of Bonnie Prince Billy. Despite this range, the album remains cohesive, tied together by Sæfari’s unmistakable voice and introspective storytelling.
Tracks like “There there” highlight his ability to meld folk sensibilities with alternative grit, while the single “Less & less” stands out as an anthemic expression of yearning and despair, complete with a visually striking music video. The song’s layered instrumentation and aching lyrics epitomize the album’s ethos of embracing vulnerability.
Sæfari’s artistic revival is not just about music; it’s a mission. Alongside his performances across Iceland and future European tours, he channels his platform into causes close to his heart, such as mental health advocacy and veganism, adding depth to his already profound artistry.
Wolfheart, is not merely an album—it’s an emotional journey and a testament to the resilience of the creative spirit. For those who appreciate music that moves the soul and challenges the heart, Sæfari’s debut is an unmissable gem.
