We always knew that Icelandic post-rockers Sigur Rós were gonna have something to say about playing in a Melbourne venue whose namesake has such vile opinions about queer people.

Vocalist Jónsi is somewhat of an outspoken queer artist, having spoken publicly about his experience growing up gay. 

Last month the band published a statement on their website saying that they wanted “to add our voice to the call for marriage equality in Australia – right here on Margaret Court Arena itself. Australia should be a country that celebrates positivity and inclusion, as well as achievement on the sporting field“. 

In a concrete way they decided to commission a limited edition tour T-shirt, designed by London-based illustrator Andrew Rae, to raise money for Australian Marriage Equality. 

The shirts were also sold in Sydney and at Splendour in the Grass. 

Playing without a support act, the show was apparently massive, featuring two epic sets from the band who were last seen in Oz at an exclusive Splendour set last year. 

But they finished their all-out aural assault tonight with a quick kick-in-the-guts for ol’ mate Marg, emblazoning Australian Marriage Equality’s rainbow logo on the screen behind them. 

 

The message from Sigur Rós comes just one day after James Murphy of LCD Soundsystem played the same venue, reportedly saying: “Let’s come back next year and rename this place.” 

The band scored a deserved standing ovation for their efforts.

Photo: Twitter / @woodesmusic.

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