Reykjavík, Iceland — The acclaimed Icelandic indie folk-rock ensemble Of Monsters and Men has marked their return to the music scene with the release of a new single, titled “Television Love.” The track, which became available on July 1, 2025, represents the quintet’s first new musical offering in a span of three years, following their 2022 EP, “Tíu.”
Composed of vocalist and guitarist Nanna Bryndís Hilmarsdóttir, vocalist and guitarist Ragnar Þórhallsson, lead guitarist Brynjar Leifsson, bassist Kristján Páll Kristjánsson, and drummer Arnar Rósenkranz Hilmarsson, Of Monsters and Men gained international recognition with their debut album, My Head Is an Animal, released in 2011, featuring the global hit single “Little Talks.” Their subsequent albums solidified their position as key figures in contemporary indie music, known for their distinctive blend of folk-infused melodies, layered instrumentation, and dual vocal harmonies.
A Return After Three Years
The release of “Television Love” ends a notable hiatus from new recordings for the band, whose last official release was the EP “Tíu” in 2022. Fans and critics alike have anticipated new material from the group, known for their evocative soundscapes and introspective lyrics. The three-year gap underscores the significance of this new single, hinting perhaps at the direction of future projects or serving as a standalone piece reflecting their current artistic phase.
Creative Collaboration in Production
“Television Love” was penned and produced by the members of Of Monsters and Men themselves, highlighting their continued hands-on approach to their creative output. In addition to the band’s self-production, the track also features production credits for Peter Katis and Bjarni Þór Jensson. Katis is known for his work with prominent artists such as The National and Interpol, while Jensson has previously collaborated with various Icelandic musicians. This collaborative production effort suggests a blend of the band’s established sound with potentially new influences brought by the external producers, aiming for a polished and impactful final recording.
Visual Storytelling Under the Midnight Sun
Accompanying the single is a music video for “Television Love,” directed by Erlendur Sveinsson. The visual component is described as a carefully crafted piece, filmed entirely on 35mm film. This choice of medium lends a timeless, cinematic quality to the video. Production took place during a summer night in Iceland, capitalizing on the unique natural light conditions around the solstice period when daylight is extended, often referred to as the ‘midnight sun.’
The band has shared insights into the video’s concept, stating it centers on a conversation occurring at a dinner table. This central scene is depicted as moving through both time and space, suggesting a non-linear narrative or a metaphorical exploration of connection and transition. Sveinsson’s direction, combined with the specific timing and location of filming, aims to create a visually rich and conceptually deep complement to the song’s themes.
The release of “Television Love,” along with its accompanying visual narrative, signals a vibrant re-emergence for Of Monsters and Men. It reinforces their artistic integrity and willingness to explore both sonic and visual mediums to connect with their audience. As the band steps back into the spotlight with this new work, it garners attention from the global music community, eager to see what follows this latest chapter.
