When groups like Radiohead and Metallica cite a new and largely unknown band as an inspiration, it’s not long before that previously unheard of act is the talk of the town. Despite the language barrier (The band’s latest album is called Agaetis Byrjun and does not come with a pronunciation key) Sigur Rós have quickly become the music critic’s darlings.

Innovative music styling (complete with guitars played with cello bows), lyrics sung in languages that range from their native Icelandic to lead singer Jonsi’s made-up “Hopelandish,” and a preference for eclectic venues like churches, combine to produce a unique musical experience unlike anything current pop has to offer: if you can call these guys pop.

Formed in the mid-‘90s, Sigur Rós were first featured on a compilation album celebrating Iceland’s 50 years of independence from Denmark. Their debut fared well, but it is their sophomore album that has got the music industry buzzing.

Released on U.K.’s Fat Cat records, Agaetis Byrjun has spent most of its 50-something weeks at No. 1 on Iceland’s charts. The album has sold over 20,000 copies in the band’s homeland: a figure comparable to selling 20 million copies in the U.S. Not bad for a group that flies under the commercial radar.