In the vibrant tapestry of Icelandic music, Baggalútur stands out for its unique contributions, particularly through its Christmas song "Styttist í það," performed with Bryndís Jakobsdóttir. This track, which translates to "It's Getting Closer," taps into the heart of holiday anticipation, blending traditional Icelandic sentiments with a universal sense of seasonal excitement and stress. The song, inspired by Italian melodies, was released as part of Baggalútur's efforts to capture the essence of the holiday spirit, emphasizing the mixed feelings of dread and eagerness that accompany the preparations for Christmas.
The lyrics of "Styttist í það" detail the frenzied rush of getting ready for Christmas, from decorating the house and garden to addressing the culinary challenges and the pressure of gift-giving. This narrative is relatable to many, encapsulating the chaos and joy of holiday preparations. The song cleverly uses repetition to underscore the ticking clock, as the days to Christmas dwindle down, highlighting a common feeling of there never being enough time to prepare for the festivities.
Musically, "Styttist í það" is characterized by its vivacious tempo of 162 BPM, set in the key of C Major, which gives it an upbeat and lively feel. Such a fast tempo paired with a major key suggests a joyful and energetic mood, fitting for a song about the bustling holiday season. This is further supported by the song's danceability and energy metrics, which suggest that it's designed to be both engaging and reflective of the spirited activities leading up to Christmas.
What makes "Styttist í það" particularly special is its ability to capture the duality of the holiday season: the stress of preparations and the underlying excitement for the celebration. The song mirrors the high-paced, often overwhelming lead-up to Christmas, while also reminding listeners of the joy and light that the holiday brings. Through its lyrics, it paints a vivid picture of homes lit up by Christmas lights, the warmth of family gatherings, and the eventual calm that comes after the storm of preparations, encapsulating the essence of Icelandic Christmas traditions.
Bryndís Jakobsdóttir's collaboration with Baggalútur adds a special touch to the song, blending her vocal talent with the band's distinctive style. This partnership enriches the song's texture, adding layers of emotional depth and musicality that resonate with listeners far beyond Iceland's borders.
"Styttist í það" is more than just a Christmas song; it's a reflection on the universal human experience during the holiday season, wrapped in a melody that's both heartwarming and humorous. It reminds us of the beauty in chaos, the warmth in cold winter nights, and the joy in coming together to celebrate, making it a unique and cherished addition to the holiday music canon.
