It’s not for the cock, it’s for being taken out of this world

As the masses of people swarm through the entrance of the huge Ally Pally, the thing that stands out the most is the full on atmosphere of child-like excitement. As faces of all ages chat happily to their mates and the time draws closer to the main event of the night, it all feels like the sort of buzz of a fairground from another age.

Almost on the dot of nine, the lights dim and four silhouettes appear to a reaction bursting with genuine anticipation and excitement. The four Icelandic figures, collectively known as Sigur Ros of course, take their positions on stage as a single keyboard note is struck and gradually the epic, sweeping of “Svefn-g-englar” unfolds. With the crashing, haunting guitar saddling up to the simple piano, the gorgeous vocals echoing around the hall and the gentle drums holding it all together, this is the most perfect and effecting opener imaginable. We’re only minutes into the performance and the crowd is already visibly transfixed.