Purrkur Pillnikk returns with first album in 44 years

Icelandic band Purrkur Pillnikk is preparing to release a new album in November, its first in 44 years, mbl.is reports.

When the band performed in Flateyri this summer, singer Einar Örn Benediktsson told the audience they were not returning to 1982. “It is 2026, and I am right,” he said.

He said the group had returned because it still had something to contribute, both on record and in live performances. “This is in no way a return to the past. We have a purpose, both in releasing music and performing live,” Einar Örn said.

The current line-up includes founding members Bragi Ólafsson, Friðrik Erlingsson and Einar Örn, along with Sigtryggur Baldursson, who has taken over at the drums from Ásgeir Bragason, who died in 2015.

Einar Örn said he felt strongly that the band remained relevant during the Flateyri concert. He described the group’s music, lyrics and enduring energy as evidence that they were “not riding a dead horse”. Bragi agreed, saying that returning to the stage had reignited their enthusiasm.

Asked whether the 44-year gap between albums could be an Icelandic record, the band members laughed. Einar Örn said it was either perseverance or longevity, but that from their perspective it felt natural. He added that it was always enjoyable to meet the other members and make music together.

Purrkur Pillnikk was highly active in the early 1980s, both in recording and performing. Sigtryggur, who was then a member of the band Þey, said Purrkur Pillnikk had been one of his favourite groups and had the most original sound of its time.

The band will perform at the Græni hatturinn concert venue in Akureyri next Saturday. Morgunblaðið is publishing a longer interview with the members in its Sunday edition.