Leaves

Arnar Gudjonsson (vocals/guitar), Hallur Hallsson (bass), and Arnar Olaffson comprise the Icelandic indie rock group Leaves. Taking their name from the Nick Drake album Five Leaves Left, Leaves originated in Iceland's capital city during summer 2001. Gudjonsson had been holed up in a red house writing songs, and once Hallsson joined him, Leaves came to life. By October, the trio had several songs under their belts and played their first live show, an 800-crowd gig at a local art gallery. Looking to expand their horizons and gain new roots, Leaves looked to London. They signed a deal with B-Unique before the year's end and issued Breathe. This 11-song set found Leaves crafting a moody, swirling pop sound. The British press adored them, often comparing Leaves to Radiohead and Coldplay. Shared dates with the Coral, Supergrass, and Electric Soft Parade followed as well as smaller gigs in America. In spring 2003, DreamWorks caught wind of Leaves' impressionable musical style and offered them a stateside deal. Breathe was slated for a domestic release in September.