Fleet Foxes
"Mykonos" is a song by the American indie folk band Fleet Foxes, first released on their 2008 EP Sun Giant. It was later issued as a single in the UK in January 2009 and reached number 51 on the UK Singles Chart3. The track was written by Robin Pecknold, the band's principal songwriter3.
Key details:
- Release: Sun Giant EP (2008); single in the UK (2009)
- Songwriter: Robin Pecknold3
- Certifications: The song has achieved considerable success, including Platinum certification in the United States, Gold in the UK and New Zealand3.
Musical style and reception:
- "Mykonos" is characterized by rich vocal harmonies, detailed folk arrangements, and evocative lyrics, features commonly praised in the band's music5.
- Critics have highlighted its second half as "salvation for the ears" (Billboard) and the vocal blend as reminiscent of historic American folk and church choirs (The New York Times)3.
Music video:
- The song's official music video is a fully animated piece directed by Sean Pecknold, Robin Pecknold’s brother13.
- The narrative follows two origami triangle characters as they journey through a paper world filled with collapsing structures, ominous figures, and surreal landscapes, ultimately ending with their escape from a collapsing fortress and descent into the sea. The visual style is both playful and slightly eerie, using paper and origami motifs to create a unique animated universe3.
Lyrics and themes:
- The lyrics depict a journey—both literal and metaphorical—with lines such as “you will go to Mykonos / with a vision of a gentle coast / and a sun to maybe dissipate / shadows of the mess you made”.
- There are themes of escape, reflection, and searching for peace or resolution after turmoil, conveyed through natural and mythic imagery like “snow-tipped pines,” “ancient gate,” and “shadows of the mess you made”.
- The song references brotherhood, departure, and isolation, reinforcing the sense of nostalgia and adventure characterizing Fleet Foxes' style.
Notable facts:
- The song appears in two main versions: the standard Sun Giant EP version and a slightly shorter alternate on the deluxe edition of their debut album3.
- Live performances, such as their appearance at Glastonbury 2009, are celebrated for their harmonious delivery and evocative instrumentation.
- The song’s intricate harmonies and folk influences have drawn comparisons to artists like Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young5.
"Mykonos" stands as one of Fleet Foxes’ most beloved tracks, noted for its lyrical depth, intricate arrangements, and memorable animated video35.
