MONORA’s 99 Proves That Some Songs Are Worth Waiting Decades For
In an industry obsessed with immediacy, Icelandic trio MONORA offer a refreshing reminder that meaningful music often unfolds on its own timeline. Their debut EP, 99, released on March 27, may be a new arrival, but the songs at its heart have been quietly waiting more than two decades to be heard. That extraordinary backstory gives 99 an undeniable sense of depth, but what ultimately makes the EP compelling is not how long it took to complete—it’s how timeless the music feels. Built upon songs originally written by collaborators Einar Valur Sigurjónsson and Guðbjörg Elísa Hafsteins, better known as Gugga Lísa, the four-track collection carries the emotional weight of lived experience without ever feeling burdened by nostalgia.
The origins of MONORA date back approximately 23 years, when Einar and Gugga first began writing music together. According to the band, the creative chemistry was immediate, producing a collection of songs that resonated deeply with those fortunate enough to hear early demo recordings. Yet despite positive reactions and multiple recording attempts over the years, life repeatedly intervened. Families grew, careers evolved, and the project remained unfinished—until now. That prolonged journey may explain why 99 feels remarkably mature for a debut release. Rather than chasing contemporary trends, MONORA focus on storytelling, melody, and emotional authenticity. The songs are rooted in personal experiences but broaden their perspective by drawing inspiration from the lives and stories of those around them. The result is a collection that feels intimate while remaining universally relatable. Opening track Now I Know immediately showcases the band’s strengths, blending heartfelt songwriting with a warm, organic musical backdrop. Gugga Lísa’s expressive vocals serve as the emotional anchor throughout the EP, bringing a sense of sincerity that elevates every lyric. Her performance never feels forced or theatrical; instead, it conveys emotion through nuance and restraint. Make It On My Own continues that approach, exploring themes of independence and personal growth with a quiet confidence. Meanwhile, Broken delves into more vulnerable territory, demonstrating the band’s ability to translate difficult emotions into compelling musical narratives. Throughout the EP, the songs unfold like short stories, revealing layers of meaning with each listen. Closing track What You Wanted provides a fitting conclusion, tying together many of the project’s recurring themes of relationships, reflection, and personal transformation. It’s a song that feels shaped not only by the experiences that inspired it but also by the years that passed before its eventual release.
The musicianship across 99 is equally impressive. Alongside Einar’s acoustic guitar work and backing vocals, Guðmann Sveinsson’s electric guitar contributions add texture and atmosphere throughout the record. Production duties from the father-and-son team of Jóhann Ásmundsson and Ásmundur Jóhannsson at Studio Paradís bring warmth and clarity to the recordings without sacrificing their intimate character. Perhaps the most striking aspect of 99 is the sense of patience embedded within every note. These are songs that have survived changing circumstances, shifting priorities, and the passage of time itself. Rather than sounding dated, they feel enriched by the years that shaped them. For a debut EP, 99 arrives with unusual emotional resonance. It stands as proof that creativity doesn’t operate on schedules and that great songs often find their audience precisely when they’re meant to. MONORA may be a new name, but the music on 99 carries the confidence, wisdom, and craftsmanship of artists who have spent decades learning how to tell stories that matter. If this release is any indication, MONORA’s long-awaited arrival is only the beginning of a promising new chapter.
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