Grapevine Airwaves Special 2012 by Reykjavík Grapevine

Grapevine Airwaves Special Grapevine Airwaves 2012

A Cover

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MUST SEE COVER ARTISTS Gísli Pálmi

sóley

“I

tend to do my own thing,” says this young rapper out of Reykjavík. “I like to keep things mysterious.” While he may prefer to keep his current activities under wraps, there is no question this artist is one of the most exciting and unique people in the local hip hop scene. Along with producing his own sound, blended smoothly with dubstep and house beats, his rhymes switch between shameless boasting and tongue-incheek self-effacing, with incredible results. But it’s onstage that Gísli Pálmi’s reputation precedes him. He puts on entertaining live performances full of blatant showmanship. “I plan to rock out as usual and hype up the

crowd,” he says about his upcoming Airwaves gig, staying cool and collected about what to expect. As for what he’s planning to see, he mentions his friends in Lockerbie and Weirdcore member Bix. “I’m also really excited to see the performance by Shabazz Palaces,” he adds, “And I always look forward to seeing Retro Stefson—they’re really great performers and always fun to see live.”

Gísli Pálmi plays at 22:10 on November 1 at Þýski Barinn.

Skúli Sverris

will also hopefully play some new songs!” What she hasn’t had much time to do is make her own festival picks. “There are so many Icelandic bands and they’re all my friends, I don’t want to forget anyone!” she laughs. “I’m really excited to see Dirty Projectors because they’re a band I can’t see just anytime. People are also talking a lot about the band playing right after me, Poliça. I have to sit down and look at the schedule!”

sóley plays at 21:40 on October 31 at Iðnó and at 22:00 on November 1 at Reykjavík Art Museum.

Ásgeir Trausti

t is often said that the best way to judge a person is by the company they keep. In the case of this composer and guitarist, his collaboration roster is nothing but intimidating to fans of experimental music. David Sylvian, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Lou Reed, Laurie Anderson and Arto Lindsay are just a few of the world-renown artists Skúli has palled around with over the past twenty years. However, at his core he is simply a humble, hard-working musician. He’ll be a busy man all through this month until his performance at Airwaves, too. “I’m working on a couple of recordings that are coming out later this year,” he tells us. “Both

rom backing bandmember to front-and-centre performer, Sóley Stéfanssdóttir has quickly risen to be in high demand. She is working on her follow up album and collaborating with a puppeteer to soundscape an upcoming play (skip ahead a few pages to read about that). “I just got back from Denver this morning,” she tells us on the morning of our cover-shoot. “I was there over the weekend playing a show with Mugison, Pétur Ben and Lay Low and we were working with four artists from Denver.” With little time to breathe between now and the Airwaves festival, she still has some plans on the horizon. “I’ve been in contact with a guy who’s really interested in doing some visuals, so there might be some video at the Reykjavík Art Museum show,” Sóley says. “I

will be released on a new Icelandic label called Mengi. I will also be touring through October.” For the festival, he will perform pieces from his ongoing Seria works, premiering the third instalment. “I’m most looking forward to seeing SWANS,” Skúli adds. “I also always like seeing Sam Amidon, and I am excited to see Sigur Rós with their new lineup.”

Skúli Sverrisson He plays at 21:40 on November 3 at Iðnó.

his singer-songwriter wunderkind has the breakout success story of the year. Only a crisp, green 20-year old, he took a sharp left turn from his athletic career plans and followed in his family’s musical footsteps. He came out with his first album ‘Dýrð í dauðaþögn’ this September, only months after producing his first demo tracks. He tells us he has been busy playing gigs since the album came out, which isn’t surprising given the critical acclaim he’s received. His Airwaves schedule is also pretty jam-packed; he is playing a total of eight shows (two official, six off-venue) and promises something

special for them all. Of course, Ásgeir will be enjoying the festival too. “There are so many new Icelandic bands that I’d like to see,” he says. “Especially the ones to come out of the Icelandic Battle of the Bands. I’d really like to see them.” Definitely do your best to catch one of his sets and find out why there’s so much buzz around this boy!

Ásgeir Trausti He plays at 00:10 on October 31 at Þýski Barinn and at 22:30 on November 3 at Harpa, Norðurljós. Check the offvenue schedule for his six other appearances.

Welcome

Grapevine Airwaves 2012

airwaves.grapevine.is

An Introduction

WELCOME TO GRAPEVINE AIRWAVES 2012 Advice

Wtf Iceland Airwaves!? Good morning

The Grapevine’s Airwaves Survival Guide! Navigating your way through Iceland’s biggest five-day party By Rebecca Louder

hile some may think of Iceland Airwaves as a festival of locals and Iceland devotees, we know that every year the city welcomes hundreds of first time visitors and hardcore music fans into its arms. And though a lot of those people have probably been to other music festivals, ours is one unlike most others! There is a sort of magic that changes the feeling in the air and a sense that anything can happen. Yet within this electrifying spontaneity, one still wants to feel ready for whatever’s about to come. So we are here to assist you with some helpful suggestions to get you through your Airwaves sojourn!

If you work with the socially understood concept of “morning,” start your day off at Prikið’s (Bankastræti 12) Rock’n’Bacon 9AM breakfast concerts. Get yourself geared up with good music and hefty servings of bacon, eggs, American style pancakes and some of the best coffee in the biz. Next, whether or not you have a hangover, but especially if you do, head over to the pool and take a dip. Check out Sundhöllin (Barónsstígur 45a) for its second-floor hot tubs with a great view and its indoor lap pool if you don’t want to leave 101. Otherwise, there’s Vesturbæjarlaug (Hofsvallagata) close by in 107 with a cosy atmosphere and a beautiful, cylindrical sauna, or Laugardalslaug (Sundlaugarvegur) in 105 with loads of pools, toys and slides to satisfy your inner child. After you’ve freshened up, go grab a delicious caffeinated beverage. The delightful folks at Litli Bóndabærinn (Laugavegur 41) make their coffees from only the best of beans and offer some killer snacks, or stop by Hemmi & Valdi (Laugavegur 21) to experience classic, urban rustic charm. Afternoon delight Now that you’re all perky and full, it’s time to take in some local culture. If you’re a bit of a history buff, head down to the settlement exhibit at Reykjavík 871+-2 (Aðalstræti 16) to take a look at the city’s foundations and have fun with their interactive displays or go to the National Museum (Suðurgata 41), which also has a bunch of cool permanent displays of old timey costumes and installations. Our art scene is especially not to be missed. Take a stroll along Laugavegur, Hverfisgata and Skólavörðustígur where you can’t throw a rock without hitting a gallery! Some of our favourites include the infamous Kling & Bang (Hverfisgata 42), Nýlistasafnið (Skúlagata 28), i8 (Tryggvagata 16) and Þoka (Laugavegur 25), which show high quality exhibits by local and international artists. Also, before it turns into a venue at night, the Reykjavík Art Museum Hafnarhús (Tryggvagata 17) has an impressive permanent collection or works by the Icelandic artist Erró who recently celebrated his 80th birthday. And then get yourself to some gigs! The off-venue programming is bigger and beefier than ever this year, clocking in at forty locations. It will be a challenge not to find some music happening somewhere, but then again, why wouldn’t you want to find some? Come on! Midnight show It will have been dark out for hours, but eventually dinnertime will roll around and you’ll have to fill up before getting to

some more gigs. Go for something delicious and fancy byway of the chic bistro SNAPS (Þórsgata 1), hearty and filling Italian food courtesy of Reykjavík’s oldest restaurant Hornið (Hafnarstræti 15), or something fast, cheap and tasty at Laundromat Café (Austurstræti 9). Check out more food recommendations from our resident gastronome Ragnar Egilsson in our info section elsewhere in this paper. From here on out, you’re set! Find a cool bar that suits your taste to have a predrink, get loose and socialise with those around you and enjoy the night to come. And if you wake up in pain the following day, chug down a couple of litres of our fresh clean cold tap-water and start this process all over again. Most importantly, be cool and have a great time!

Last Year’s Most Awesome Airwaves Story Contest Winner! 1st Place!

Davíð Arnar Baldursson Hello Grapevine! I’ve got one Airwaves story for you guys. It is absolutely true, not my imagination. This happened at last years Iceland Airwaves festival. I was holding hands with a beautiful girl, who I had recently started dating, outside NASA. The rain was pouring down, and we were waiting in line to get inside. But the chaos in the line was so powerful that the girl got pushed ahead of me. I couldn’t get back to her because there was a guy standing in front of me in the line, holding around his guitar bag. To express my frustration, and try to be funny at the same time, I bit the top of his guitar bag. But then suddenly the “guitar bag” turns around, and I realize that this wasn’t his guitar bag – that was his girlfriend! From my (drunken) point of view I saw a guy holding his arms around a guitar bag of some sort, but it actually was his girlfriend wearing a big black cape with a hood! So I had just bit her hood! They just gave me this really weird look and didn’t quite know what the hell they were supposed to say or do. And of course the girl I was dating just stood there completely stunned of my actions. She then got inside Nasa, while I had to stand in line for another 10 minutes, with the guy and his “guitar bag” right next to me. I haven’t seen this couple ever since that evening, but I’d like to take advantage of this opportunity and apologize to them. Stupid things like these can happen at Airwaves, especially after a few beers. It can be noted for fun that me and the girl in the line (not the guitar bag-girl though) are still dating, and just moved in together. Things are going really well for us, and I want to believe that Iceland Airwaves plays a part in that Yours sincerely, Davíð

Advice for getting through your first (or fifth!) festival experience My husband and I are festival bound this year for the first time and couldn't be more excited. We have been trying to pick up some simple Icelandic phrases to use, (or at least attempt to use), while there. We've searched the web, watched YouTube videos… needless to say it's a pretty daunting language to grasp. Even "thank you" sounds intense. Can you recommend a good site or phrase book that might help us out? Thanks in advance! Jenn Dear Jenn, You already get an A for effort! Truth is though, if you find yourself struggling to even pronounce our standard form of gratitude, you may not want to attempt it at all. Not that I don’t firmly believe you’ve been trying—it’s just that Icelandic is spoken in such a singular way that the novice speaker is frequently not understood. It’s a bummer, I know. Also, since the country will be so totally full of foreigners that week, no one will think a wit less of you for just sticking to your native tongue. It might speed things up in some cases! That being said, if you insist, the Lonely Planet has a pretty good guide of Scandinavian phrases, Omniglot has a page on their site of practical Iceland phrases along with pronunciation recordings, and of course when you get here, you can pick up the Grapevine for your Kreisí Æcelandic Frase of Þis issue! Takk og gangi þér vel!

My friends are visiting me the weekend of Airwaves but don't have tickets. Is there any way to sneak them in? If not, what should they do while I'm at Airwaves? Arit Dear Arit, I presume your friends didn’t know about Airwaves when they booked their tickets or they sadly came in just under when the festival SOLD OUT! Luckily they won’t feel like complete nitwits when they see the off-venue programming, which is simply astounding this year, if I may say so myself! I’m not the only one saying it actually; see our fancy article with recommendations a few pages ahead. Sneaking them in is close to impossible (unless you find a wristband on the ground, lucky you!) so they’ll have to fend for themselves when you go to official venues, but otherwise, they can totally enjoy the marvellous feeling that overtakes the city during this festival! Are you coming over for Airwaves and looking for some protip guidance? Send your questions to rebecca@grapevine.is

The Airwaves Scout Kit Like the old motto goes, be prepared! Here’s a comprehensive kit of handy items to help your festival go as smoothly as possible. For starters you will want a convenient carrying case that won’t hinder you from partying or get in other peoples’ way. The ultraNordic, hip and reliable Fjällräven Mini is fool proof, as is a supertrendy Herschel Supply Co. Survey bag. Of course, picking something up last minute at one of our Red Cross or Salvation Army stores is a safe bet too! Okay so now let’s get packing: Festival Guide booklet & Grapevine pull-out Your two best sources of all things, people and places in the festival! Keep them with you at all times and cherish them. Metal, re-usable water bottle For daytime off-venue gigs, city exploring and can double as a flask for afternoon drinking. Classic hip-flask Placed strategically on one’s body, can be successfully snuck into official venues, but you didn’t hear it from us! Aspirin/Ibuprofen Because hangovers can sneak up on you late in the day and unknown bands may have adverse effects. Lip balm and hand lotion The air is dry, cold and bitter and when the wind starts up it blows at low, horizontal angles. Even with a scarf and gloves, your skin will beg for it. K-Way jacket/fold-up poncho Again with this weather, layering up your clothes is key! You should also always be prepared for a sudden downpour. Camera/Smartphone Take loads of photos! Tweet the shit out of them! Tweet them at us: @ rvkgrapevine! We’ll totally re-tweet! Notepad and pens Even if you’re not a critic, you never know what you’ll see or hear that can only be captured in the way of words. Or you might meet a cute writer whose ink just ran out. Snacks Not that we’re complaining, but the gigs can be really long and good luck finding food in most venues. Plus, if you leave, it might take a long time to get back in. Condoms If you think you’ll be out on the prowl, we cannot stress this one enough. NO GLOVE, NO LOVE.

New vs. Old

Grapevine Airwaves 2012

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Interviews

In With The New Þoka play their first Airwaves ever! By Rebecca Louder

n the final acts of this year’s Icelandic Battle of the Bands, a surprisingly different kind of band took the stage. Lush and demure, the room soon hushed as their lead singer effortlessly and emotively belted three intensely personal songs over soft, dynamic, urban jazz tunes. As the awards were announced, they began their sweep. This is Þoka, the second place winners of the contest, who are made up of Agnes Björgvinsdóttir (best vocalist winner), Heimir Klemenzson (best keyboardist winner) and Reynir Hauksson on guitar. Since that successful night they have been writing, composing and developing their sound for their upcoming debut album, set to be released in 2013. They’ve also been playing shows all over the country, and are gearing up to win some new fans at their first Iceland Airwaves festival. We caught up with the band to find out more.

What was it like performing in the Battle of the Bands? As a whole it was a great experience! The band was really new when we decided to sign up and we were not really sure about it all. The semi-finals were the first time we performed together on stage in front of an audience and it was great. Before that we had only played in Agnes’

NEW VS. OLD

living room. The results were unexpected and we are so grateful for everything that the contest did for us. What do you recommend to people coming to Airwaves for the first time? If people are coming from other countries, they should try to see as many Icelandic bands as possible, you know, try to get to know the Icelandic music scene. We will be playing Wednesday night at Amsterdam, the first night of the festival alongside some great Icelandic bands so we think that is a great way to start your experience. We are a new, up-and-coming band that plays Icelandic music with Icelandic lyrics. So come to Amsterdam, drink Thule and Brennivín and enjoy.

Þoka play on Wednesday, October 31 at 20:00 at Amsterdam.

GusGus are the champions of Airwaves!

Who are you most looking forward to seeing at the festival? There are so many that we can’t wait to see like Ghost Town Jenny, Low Roar, Mo Kenney, Sam Amidon and so many others! We are also excited to see many of the Icelandic bands! Heimir and Reynir have actually never been to Airwaves, but this will be Agnes’ fifth festival. That is kind of crazy! What is your favourite part of Airwaves in general, Agnes? I love how everything in Reykjavík changes during Airwaves: the atmosphere is completely different. The last couple of years I have met so many great and interesting people and made friends from all over the world. My favourite part of Airwaves is getting my wristband. Every year I am just as excited as the year before, if not more! There is never any drama during the festival, just music, love and happiness!

Old Band On The Dock By Rebecca Louder

I GusGus play on Sunday, November 4 at 01:00 at Harpa Silfurberg.

t was a (presumably cold and rainy) October in 1999 when one famous foreign artist and three super-hip Icelandic bands—Thievery Corporation, Toy Machine, Quarashi and GusGus—gathered in a Reykjavík airplane hangar to play a massive show. As with most things that begin here, it was an experiment. No one knew if this would happen once or if thirteen years later, it would have grown to become the biggest music event in the country. So goes the legend of Iceland Airwaves. The airplane hangar has since been traded in for Harpa and the festival has hosted nearly every local band to form in the last decade. However, of the original line-up, only GusGus remain standing strong in Iceland. Not only that but they have played more festivals than any other band or artist. They’ve been hard at work on a new album and touring, getting into top form to deliver a performance worthy of their stature, with lights, smoke, strobes and plenty of drama. We tracked down President Bongo to get the inside story. How would you describe your relationship with the

festival and what does it mean to you? Not many people know (or care) but GusGus came up with the idea for the festival. We’ve played every year except one, but we still did DJ sets that year, so we’ve been present every year. Our relationship with it is strong, almost illegal. It’s wonderful to see what has become of it, despite the hurricanes it’s gone through. We love all the scars and stitched up sails. It looks great today! The venue NASA was strongly associated with GusGus and you of course played its closing gig. What do you think Airwaves will be like now that it’s out of the family? We feel terrible about NASA not being there anymore for us and everyone else who played that venue. It’s a BIG mess! GusGus would like to thank Inga [Ingibjörg Örlygsdóttir, aka Inga á Nasa], here and now, for her part of this adventure, which is invaluable! Thank you Inga! In your opinion, how does this festival differ from other city festivals that you have played? What makes it unique and how does it keep its longevity? Airwaves is a great festival for me because I can walk to the venue and eat with my mom before a show! I have never tasted the catering at the festival. That basically enables me to talk about how it differs from others. I am pretty sure Airwaves is still here because people have fought for its existence—Þorsteinn Stephensen being the key “Mr. Destiny” fighter along with his crew. I am also sure the present fighters will continue doing the same and the festival will have a long, long life. Besides yourselves, of course, what Icelandic bands should people check out if they are coming to the festival for the first time? I hope Prinspólo is playing! They’re my favourite! Then there’s the Radio Bongo Sunday night at Kaffibarinn, Captain Fufanu and Gluteus Maximus— I wonder where they will be playing! I wouldn’t want to miss that for the world. This weekend is gonna be tough! I’m gonna call Einar Örn [Icelandic musician and Reykjavík City Council member] for advice.

All Eyes On Iceland

Grapevine Airwaves 2012

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Opinion

here are a lot of Icelandic acts performing at this year's Iceland Airwaves festival. This in itself is of course nothing new. The festival does an admirable job year after year of presenting the Reykjavík music scene almost in its entirety. What's remarkable though—as a festival that has through the years developed a reputation for showcasing some of the hottest indie bands from abroad—is that Icelandic artists have come to be its main attraction. If you look at Iceland Airwaves lineups from 2007 to 2009, it includes a who's who of the indie rock world—Bloc Party, Of Montreal, Grizzly Bear, Vampire Weekend, Florence + the Machine, Kings of Convenience, and The Drums, and that's just scratching the surface. Remember, this is a country that otherwise receives performances from artists of this pedigree maybe a couple times a year. Maybe. However, with the arrival of the new decade it seems something began to change. Consensus, at least among my friends, was that the 2010 line-up was somewhat lacking, and rumour had it that we were now feeling the effects of the economic crash. Was it simply that the festival could no longer afford to import such musical decadence? Or did it simply mark a change of tides in the music world? Was indie going out? Was pop in, or simply a safe bet? Come 2011, the festival would no longer flounder in ambiguity. Beach House and tUnE-yArDs would rep the indie, but only to be dwarfed by the legend of Icelandic music herself. Björk had just released a critically acclaimed new album, ‘Biophilia,’ and would be the de facto headliner. This year, Sigur Rós—second only to Björk in the short story of homegrown legends—follows suit. Sigur Rós has just released a new album, ‘Valtari,’ and is the de facto headliner of this year's festival. If the "sort by popularity" filter on the Iceland Airwaves schedule planner app is anything to go by, then an additional handful of Icelandic acts are garnering more attention from festival-goers than even the most popular acts from abroad. Of Monster and Men, GusGus, sóley and FM Belfast each have more festival-goers expressing interest than Dirty Projectors, Django Django and Purity Ring. Couple that with this fact: The festival sold out this year a record 82 days early. This all would seem to suggest an exploding interest in Icelandic music. Which brings up the tired cliché: So what is it about Iceland that leads to such great music? Every time you ask this, PR agencies piss themselves with glee and half of the music scene vomits a little. And so are born the stories of being under the influence of unique Icelandic nature— the stories that will get written about (because that's what this game is really about). You can hardly turn on the radio or TV in this country without being fed some news about Iceland being best (or at least second best) at something. And so Icelanders are constantly boasting.

All Eyes On Iceland Icelandic music on the rise By Þórir Bogason

Þórir Bogason is a musician who grew up in California.

FACTS Iceland Airwaves Festival make-up, by country:

75% Iceland 8% United States 4% United Kingdom 4% Canada 3% Denmark 2% Finland 1% Germany

Memories It's a sign of national insecurity, but also a game of posturing. I can't figure out whether it's extremely naive or sinisterly clever. It perpetuates itself. If you look at the newfound success of bands like Of Monsters And Men and sóley, there’s nothing particularly Icelandic about them. Any country could have created these acts. Of Monsters And Men is extremely catchy “indie”-folk pastiche. It's clear their inspiration comes from abroad, from the likes of Arcade Fire et al., repackaged with commercial gloss and major label backing. Sóley is a YouTube phenomenon. Her success is largely organic, or algorithmic if you will. In the YouTube context, her song “Pretty Face” stands on its own with more than seven million views. There’s no PR fairytale to accompany it; it’s not even accompanied by a video, but rather just a still image of the album cover. It wasn’t until I listened to it in this context that I finally fully "got it." It's an exceptionally beautiful track. Word has it that Iceland nonetheless produces a disproportionately large amount of noteworthy music for its small population. Most existing commentary on the matter is pure fluff. My sense is that the small size of the Iceland’s market forces musicians to appeal to more mainstream or widespread sensibilities. There is also something particular about Icelanders themselves that I think has a lot less to do with the influence of barren lava fields and more to do with an ingrained professionalism, Scandinavian utilitarianism and hard work ethic. (This is the type of story that does not get written about, because it doesn’t fit the image we expect of musicians.) Paradoxically, it’s also a cushier society here. For example, you can have a baby at age 18 without permanently derailing your life, and so lots of people do. You can also have a band without worrying too much about how to pay for it—you can get a grant to record your album or go on your debut tour abroad. And so lots of people do. And remember, everybody’s cheering for you, because if your song gets played even just once in New York, it’s front-page news. And if it doesn’t pan out, you can just re-enrol in the university. Whatever the reasons may be, a vibrant and varied musical scene flourishes on a one-street strip of bars on this small island in the middle of the north Atlantic, and increasingly the world is taking notice. Whatever the other precipitants may be, ultimately it’s the appeal of their material that makes or breaks it for these artists. In the case of Of Monsters and Men, it’s commercial appeal. For sóley it’s viral. For Sigur Rós it’s their ingenious blend of shoegaze and post-rock— both established genres borrowed from abroad—combined with the romantic notion of taking inspiration from nature. Icelanders, either by design, predisposition, or luck, are figuring out how to present themselves for wider appeal. But don’t take the PR campaigns too seriously. If you look deeper, you may even find something richer.

Great Airwaves Memories Plus One Virgin’s Expectations

Christian Hoard, Rolling Stone I have tons of great memories from past festivals. Like the time in 2005 when I lost a drunken bet (something to do with someone eating a large quantity of Icelandic hot dogs) and had to get an Icelandic word I still can’t pronounce tattooed on my shoulder by a large modern Viking-looking fella. Several Icelanders got the same tattoo the same day—and I’m still friendly with almost all of them. This will be my fifth trip to Iceland. Mostly what I look forward to when I come back is seeing familiar faces and exploring the terrain. I love you guys' constant good nature, deadpan sense of humour and beautiful countryside. See ya soon.

Sindri Már Sigfússon, Seabear My favourite Airwaves moment isn’t one thing in particular. Since I started going to the festival about ten years ago, it’s been hanging out with my friends— having drinks and going to lots of shows together.

Megan Horan, Artist Manager As an Airwaves virgin, I am hoping to revel in the general chaos of the whole thing. I remember Dan Zilber from Fbi Radio (Sydney) talking about coming to Airwaves last year, and being green with envy. Now I find myself living here and being part of it, it’s all rather surreal. Highlights I am looking forward to include: The Dirty Projectors, Úlfur, Ben Frost, Sudden Weather Change, Django Django and... and... Who am I kidding? I am really looking forward to all the cute band boys milling around town in their ridiculously skinny jeans.... Be still my beating heart.

SKYR – FOR OVER A THOUSAND YEARS Skyr (pronounced skeer) is a dairy product that is unique to Iceland. It is a deliciously healthy snack that has been a large part of the Icelandic diet since the first settlers brought it with them around the year 1000, as mentioned in the Icelandic Sagas. Skyr is a creamy delicacy that is both fat-free and protein-rich, giving you a great sense of fullness. A convenient and healthy food that is loved by both Icelanders and visitors alike.

spuutnikauglysing.pdf

10/3/12

2:40 PM

:0: DJ10-20 Gay Latino Man

10-20 0: DJ Housekell

0-20 0: Sykur Live Set + DJ’s

10-20 0: DJ Klaus

Spúútnik is a true second hand heaven in downtown Reykjavik, that has for over 25 years specialized in vintage clothing for both men and women. Spúútnik is known for a hip and cool atmosphere and a trendy sta ff that are glad to help you pick out the perfect party outfit for Iceland Airwaves.

“...a true second hand heaven”

12-18 Laugavegur 28b, 101 Reykjavik

Airwaves opening hours

WED: 10 - 20 THU: 10 - 20 FRI: 10 - 20 SAT: 10 - 20 SUN: 10 - 20

Spúútnik is a true second hand heaven in downtown Reykjavik, that has for over 25 years specialized in vintage clothing for both men and women. Spúútnik is known for a hip and cool atmosphere and a trendy staff that are glad to help you pick out the perfect party outfit for Iceland Airwaves.

CMY

Vintage kilo market “friendly place for the wallet” Laugavegur 118, 101 Reykjavik

Airwaves opening hours

Are you a second hand freak that loves to scan the flea markets for some great cheap vintage finds? Then the Vintage kilo market is the place for you! The market is situated in a big basement accross the street from Hlemmur, the main bus stop in down town Reykjavik and is a funky place to visit. Not to mention a very friendly place for the wallet!

WED: 12 - 18 THU: 12 - 18 FRI: 12 - 18 SAT: 12 - 18

Guides

Grapevine Airwaves 2012

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GUIDES TO The Old AIRWAVES DJ’s Guide To Shop- VES ping

By Pan & Óskar Thorarensen

ou know what they say—families that play together, stay together. Combining forty years of musical experience into one down-tempo chill duo are Stereo Hypnosis, a father and son who are both prominent figures in the local electronic scene. Father Óskar grew up as a member of the art collective Inferno 5 and now plays solo as soundscaping master Jafet Melge, while son Pan flounces around as hip hopstyle rump-shaker Beatmakin Troopa. The two are also co-founders along with DJ AnDre of the Extreme Chill Festival, which has quickly grown to a fever pitch. As the pair get ready to play Iceland Airwaves for their nth time each, both together and solo, we asked the local greats to give you the scoop on some of their favourite spots in town that keep them in sound-and-style check.

KronKron This shop is one of Iceland’s most unique and chic clothing stores, with loads and loads of nice brands by international, big name designers like Henrik Vibskov, Fred Perry and Acne. If you want to treat yourself to something very nice, buy yourself a garment at Kron Kron. Lucky Records By far the best record shop in the country and the only record store with a huge vinyl collection along with CDs and DVDs. This store is very special to us. The owner, Ingvar, is a good friend of ours and knows music very well. If you need to find some rare jazz, rock or electronic music on vinyl, Lucky Records is the place to go to for sure. Mundi One of Iceland’s most brilliant and fun artists and clothing designers, Mundi has his own unique way of doing things and he’s only 25 years old. His ideas are remarkable and you can see it in his clothing lines as well as in his short films and loads of other things he is involved in. He is also an all-around super nice guy. You should check out his work whether it’s his clothes, films or art. Salvation Army/Red Cross It’s always nice to drop by one of these places and catch the nice spirit that comes from used clothing stores. You can go through endless piles of clothes and once in a while you find that one gem you have been looking for. The staff is always nice to have a chat and a cup of coffee with. These places really catch the true spirit of Reykjavík. Herrafatarverslun Kormáks & Skjaldar A real old school gentleman’s store, Kormákur & Skjöldur have been around for quite a long time. From 1996 to be precise! They started out selling super nice used clothing from the ‘50s & ‘60s, and now have their own line, which looks amazing. This is one of these well-rooted clothing stores in Reykjavík. They also have a fantastic, old-timey barbershop right in the store. It’s always nice to drop by and imagine that the year is 1965!

The Hardcore Kid’s The Young Guide To Composer’s Sightseeing The Troubadour’s Guide To Guide To Dining Drinking By Birkir Fjalar Viðarsson

Jafet Melge (AKA Óskar Thorarensen) plays at Faktorý upstairs on Wednesday, October 31 at 20:10. Beatmakin Troopa (AKA Pan Thorarensen) plays at Faktorý upstairs on Wednesday, October 31 at 22:50. Stereo Hypnosis (AKA Óskar and Pan) plays at Þýski Barinn on Saturday, November 3 at 20:00.

Anna Þorvaldsdóttir lives at annathorvalds.com Birkir Fjalar Viðarsson runs Halifaxcollect at www.halifaxcollect. blogspot.com Alexander Aron Guðbjartsson's favourite songs to play are Adele's "One And Only" and Ray Charles, "Unchain My Heart."

By Anna Þorvaldsdóttir

he “Young Composer’s Guide To Reykjavík Dining” is a bit of a tradition at The Grapevine, with past Airwaves issues featuring recommendations from Nico Muhly and Ólafur Arnalds. This time around, we thought we’d ask Anna Þorvaldsdóttir to clue us into her favourite places to grab a bite. Anna was just awarded the Nordic Council Music Prize 2012 for her work, “Dreaming.” She happens to be vegetarian, so if you’re not vegetarian and you are for some reason opposed to eating vegetarian, Google “Young Composer’s Guide To Reykjavík Dining” and you will undoubtedly find more meaty recommendations from the aforementioned composers.

Downtown Reykjavík is full of great places to have a nice lunch or dinner. I haven’t spent all that much time in Iceland the past few years, but whenever I go back home I have some favourites that I like to revisit. The following places have some great vegetarian options that should serve a variety of tastes. I have also included a place for those wanting to try Icelandic seafood. Grænn kostur (Skólavörðustígur 8) is very nice vegetarian place in downtown Reykjavík. I would recommend stopping by and checking what their dish of the day is—it is usually a very good one and comes at an affordable 1,680 ISK (or half portion for 1,280 ISK). If you’re looking for something a bit more fancy, Fiskmarkaðurinn (Fish Market, Aðalstræti 12) is a really great seafood restaurant that combines fresh Icelandic ingredients with Eastern flavours. It is definitely worth checking out. Reykjavík is not a very ethnically diverse city, but there are a few restaurants serving good ethnic cuisine. Shalimar (Austurstræti 4), for example, is a great Pakistani place, which serves Pakistani and Indian food. The taste is very authentic and the atmosphere is very relaxed. If you prefer to cook your own food and you like organic, straight from the farm kinds of places, Frú Lauga in Laugardalur (Laugalæk 6) is the place. It’s probably Reykjavík’s closest thing to a farmer’s market, and you’ll find products from all over the country with labels detailing their origin. For great coffee, I would definitely recommend Kaffismiðjan (Kárastígur 1). It's a small cosy place to sit down and enjoy a wonderful cup of coffee—or to grab one to go. They roast the beans in the store with a very cute pink roaster.

irkir Fjalar Viðarsson often plays in bands, most notably Bisund, Stjörnukisi, I Adapt, Gavin Portland, Celestine and Hellvar. These days, though, he does less of that and spends more of his waking hours on his music/culture blog Halifax Collect. From time to time, he also contributes to the sexy Reykjavík Grapevine so we thought we’d get him to divulge his favourite sightseeing activities—where he might take his Canadian friends, for instance, when they visit.

Greetings children of Sodom and Gomorrah. I’ve grown to be quite the homebody so when it comes to bars, places to eat and such, I'm one of the worst people to ask. However, your Airwaves experiences should be spiked with something different to add to the dynamics of your travel-stories upon returning home from your adventures. So, here’s what I’d do. Walk around the harbour front. Start at Harpa (Austurbakki 2) and make your way to Slippurinn (the old harbour) and beyond. Stop at the row of old fish warehouses, now painted turquoise. Relax and look out at the beautiful ships in their naked dry-land glory. Go down to the pier and take a closer look at the boats and ships afloat. Board them even if you shouldn't. Nobody cares. It comes with the territory and it is fun. This also makes for more interesting photos than more of the same drunk-at-a-bar or standing-in-front-of-ageyser shots. For a more scenic experience, head out to Hvalfjörður and hike up the trail that takes you to the Glymur waterfall. It's a quick trip that places you in the heart of nature. Beautiful. By the same token, go to Reykjanesviti. It’s very close to the city and looks epic, with crashing waves, harrowing and arresting cliffs, lava formation and the works. It’s easy to reach by car or bus. It has plenty of badass photo opportunities for those who like to pose in front of stuff. Want the whole bloody Atlantic as your computer background? Look no further. If you like action more than nature, go to a local hockey game at Skautasvellið in Laugardalur (Fossaleyni 1). It's not the best hockey in the world, but these young-guns make up for it with enthusiasm in spite of a lack of general interest in the game, a miniscule federation power and all-around neglect on most fronts. It's charming and awesome. Before the game, take a stroll around Laugardalur, walk through the Botanical Garden and enjoy a cup of tea at Café Flora. Nice. Calm. And if you really have the time to get out of Reykjavík, take the drive to Stykkishólmur. If that town and its surroundings disappoint you, we cannot be friends

By Alexander Aron Guðbjartsson

hatever your opinion of them and their music, the trusty troubadour is for many people the mortar on which a great night is built. So for some reason we thought it would be fun to ask one of them to recommend a few places to grab a drink—that is, for people who enjoy some Creedence Clearwater “Have you ever seen the Rain” to go with their beer. It turns out this may (or may not) have been bit of a silly idea as Alexander Aron Guðbjartsson—a staple troubadour in 101 for the last five years—explains.

Despite what you think, troubadours like myself really don’t go out that much. The thing is that when we’re playing over the weekend, we’re working. Some of the guys that I know in this business will have a drink after work, but they are really loyal to the places that they play at—they really only go to three or four places where we know the bar staff really well. But there are some good places to go drink and have a good time. One such place is Úrilla Górillan (Austurstræti 12). There’s live music there every day. Even though it’s officially a sports bar, it’s also a restaurant too as well as a great place to have a drink. Even though there may be sports playing, it’s never too loud. Pubs can be really crowded especially over the weekends, but if you come early in the evening and beat the crowd then there are some bars that have a nice atmosphere. One such place is Den Danske Kro (Ingólfstræti 3). It’s not that big and it feels really homey because they have loads of regulars. If you’re a tourist, don’t worry they’re really friendly. They also have a nice 2-for-1offer until 19:00. Otherwise I’d recommend the English Pub (Austurstræti 12), which is busier and more crowded, but still has a great vibe. It’s popular for a reason (i.e. it’s good). Then there’s Ölstofan (Vegamótastígur 4), which I like because a friend of mine works there. It’s easy-going and the music they play nice background music. If you’re looking for a place to have something to eat with your drink, then there’s also Laundromat (Austurstræti 9). It’s actually a nice place to go to. It feels different from some of the other places because it closes a bit earlier and doesn’t ever turn into a party. You can go there with friends and actually hear each other speak.

THE KITCHEN IS OPEN UNTIL MIDNIGHT ON WEEKENDS 11.30 – 23.30 SUN – THU

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Cluness vs. Louder

Previews DIIV

Saturday, November 3, 00:20 at Iðnó

Nova Heart

Thursday, November 1, 23:20 at Gamli Gaukurinn

A synonym for frontman Z. Cole Smith, this band is like those times when you get high and decide now is a good time to do your groceries at the gas station. You leave with a bunch of ridiculous items, and then you eat them all at once, and it was the best decision ever. This band left the gas station with some Kraut rock drums, shoegazing atmospheric guitars, dreampop vocals and the bass-line of a rave. This was a very, very good decision.

This multinational singer has been kind of a huge deal in Asia since moving back to her native China in 2002, and now Helen Feng is kicking the doors open to Europe with glittered platforms since forming Nova Heart with Roman artist Rodion. Incidentally, the pair met where their continents meet—Istanbul. Their music is also an urban bridging of glamorous electronica and punk, with super cool, danceable results.

Kiriyama Family

Rangleklods

Saturday, November 3, 21:40 at Amsterdam

Remember when Foreigner went from being “hard” rock (okay, fine they were never HARD) to full on smooth adult contempo? Meanwhile you had jewels like Boston and Supertramp who fused disco sheen with a rocking edge, the latter being insanely talented musicians to boot? Well, thank you Kiriyama Family for reviving the kind of magic bred from ‘Breakfast in America’ for dinner in Iceland! More like hello, stranger!

Low Roar

Friday, November 2, 20:00 at Harpa, Kaldalón

He made his own choice to move from his home in San Francisco to Reykjavík—a world apart being an understatement— but Ryan Karazija still couldn’t help but get a serious case of the frozen-island blues once the winter hit. He lays out his desolate sentiments over slow, tense arrangements of ambient guitar and strings, with beats reminiscent of ‘Kid A’ and a voice not unlike Thom Yorke’s for that matter.

Thursday, November 1, 22:40 at Faktorý

This young gentleman is hard to describe, but I’m pretty sure he’s okay with that—in fact, his intention may very well be to confound! It seems simple at the surface, being really fun, bouncy and held together by a silky smooth voice. But things aren’t what they seem, with a cornucopia of acoustic and electronic cross-over, homebuilt instruments and impromptu improvisation. He’s taken the principles of technical dance music and said “Nice try, but I think I can do better.”

Þórir Georg

Saturday, November 3, 21:40 at Amsterdam

Finally we come to one of my favourite Icelandic artists of all-all-all time. Before I first stepped foot on this big rock, this guy had been going around as My Summer As A Salvation Soldier doing heartbreaking André 3000 covers. Þórir was and remains one of the most prolific individuals in lo-fi home recordings, producing vast amounts of content each with distinct character. His live sets are always different and pleasantly surprising.

From Louder, with love! Six Bands To Catch At Airwaves 2012! By Rebecca Louder

12 Bands To Catch At Airwaves 2012!

Grapevine Airwaves 2012

airwaves.grapevine.is

SWANS!

Apparat Organ Quartet Friday November, 2 at 22:10 at

Thursday, November 1, 23:30, at Harpa Norðurljós

Right, I’m going to tackle the 800lbs nihilistic hippy in the room because no one else will. People coming to Airwaves will, if asked, say that they’re going to see Sigur Rós, Of Monsters And Men, Retro Stefson, etc, etc. But ask most Icelandic musicians and local gig-goers what they want to see and they’ll simply say, “SWANS!” And it’s hard not to see why. Even though ol' Michael Gira is nearing doting age, the fact that he brought SWANS back from hiatus in 2010 and produced possibly the two best albums in his career speaks volumes. Take this year’s release, ‘The Seer’—it’s hope and despair of cosmic dimensions with the likes of Ben Frost, Jarboe and Karen O on board—pure molten granite. Glaciers, elves and waterfalls? Pfft! SWANS pisses on your pitiful ideas of happiness and joy.

Bob Cluness’ Six Bands To Catch At Airwaves 2012! By Bob Cluness

Harpa Silfurberg

The doom riders of the synth apocalypse are riding back to Airwaves! What is worth noting about these guys is that they never seem to have a bum gig, which is even more surprising considering the age and condition some of their vintage synths are in. Even if it’s the first time you see them, you will be throwing triangle shaped gang signs with your hands every four minutes as you find yourself jumping along to their DIY Kraftwerk futurism.

Purity Ring Thursday, November 1 23:10 at

Angist

Harpa Silfurberg

Friday, November 2, 22:30 at Cafe Amsterdam

All Killer, fuck all filler..

that are big, textured and very, very majestic. If you don’t believe me, check out their track “Munich 1972,” a sweeping valley of a song that invokes the twin spirits of Popol Vuh and ‘Köln’ era Kraftwerk.

The metal night at Café Amsterdam this year is almost completely local-led. This is a good thing because the local talent this year is damn near perfect. But keep an eye out for Angist. Led by the imperious duo of Edda Tegeder Óskarsdóttir and Gyða Hrund Þorvaldsdóttir, their take on death metal is especially cold and pitiless, with a refreshing lack of cock metal penis extension moves. Since they’ve settled with new drummer Tumi Snær Gíslason, their performances have improved exponentially to the point where they’re taking on the big cheeses at their own game. Expect some serious tearing of flesh and krushing of hopes.

Siinai Saturday November, 3, 23:20, at

Harpa Kaladón

The Germans may have invented krautrock, but the Finns are the ones taking it to the next level and aligning it to their own arctic sense of space and time. A four-piece with members who hail from such alumni as Joensuu 1685, Zebra and Snake and Äänijännite, they make sounds

The sound of pop’s future today, Purity Ring have found their own voice of tightly wound hip hop beats, glowing sparse synths, chopped’n’screwed voices, and the dark complex lyrics of vocalist Megan James. They take the future-pop fetishism of Lady Gaga and Rihanna and make them warm and human. A definite must for those who have been feeding off the life forces of Grimes and Holy Other this year.

Bix Thursday November 1, 21:20 at

Faktorý upstairs

After his much lauded performances at last year’s Airwaves, one of Iceland’s true electronic survivors returns for some more punishment. His journey has been a long one. From making tiny beat sounds while barely out of his milk teeth, he was a sought after remixer and New York exile for many years until returning to the motherland with his current album, ‘A nimalog,’ complete with stacked bass squelches and tungsten EBM beats. It’s all actually rather annoying as he makes it look and sound so easy. Let’s hope he brings along his anthropomorphic animal dance crew, “The Dr Moreau Allstars,” again this year.

Airwaves warm-up

10 Oct.

Samaris + 1860 + Sóley

17 Oct.

RetRoBot + Berndsen + Sykur

24 Oct.

Stafrænn Hákon + Tilbury Doors open from 21.00

with Free Síminn concerts

at Faktorý all wednesdays in October

Síminn is the tech sponsor of Iceland Airwaves and will be releasing the Airwaves app soon.

All The Friggin Bands At Airwaves 2012!

Grapevine Airwaves 2012

airwaves.grapevine.is

BAND INDEX 1860

EXITMUSIC (US)

Sat, Harpa Kaldalón, 20:50

Fri, Harpa Norðurljós, 23:20

A lovely-folk rock band made to play at the end of a country jamboree, when the stars are out and the moonshine’s all drank and the square-dancing is all done

Whether in quiet suspense or powerful surges, this dark and brooding duo is out to give their audience a physical reaction.

FM BELFAST

AGENT FRESCO

Wed, Iðnó, 00:10 Fri, Harpa Silfurberg, 01:00

Wed, Gamli Gaukurinn, 00:10 Sat, Harpa Norðurljós, 21:40

The dominating force in Icelandic art-prog-core, they’ve been showered with accolades at home and abroad for their beautiful, chaotic sounds

ANGIST

Fri, Amsterdam, 22:30

CERCUEIL (FR)

The coldest darkwave to emerge from France since Die Form, this gloomy duo are right out of the grave and onto the dance floor.

CHEEK MOUNTAIN THIEF (UK/IS)

Fri, Harpa Silfurberg, 22:10

CONTALGEN FUNERAL

Electro-kraut band extraordinaire made up of local legends and analog party makers, a feast for the eyes and the ears

ÁRNI VECTOR

Wed, Faktorý Downstairs, 22:50

A player in the local electronic scene since the late ‘90s, Mr. Vector knows variety is the spice of life. From quiet and slow to loud and wild, he mixes it up and does it all.

ÁRSTÍÐIR

Thu, Iðnó, 21:40

Infused with well-blended influences of folk, classical, prog and indie, this six-piece vocal-based band is heavy on two things: harmonies and talent.

ÁSGEIR TRAUSTI

Wed, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 00:10 Sat, Harpa Norðurljós, 22:30

Classically trained and talent orientated, this folktronica youngster has quickly blown up as our local answer to Bon Iver. Go see what all the fuss is about.

ASONAT

Sat, Faktorý Upstairs, 20:50

A duo comprised of Ruxpin and one half of the band Plastik Joy, combining diverse electronic compositions with brilliant guest vocalists. Surprises are in store.

ATRUM

Fri, Amsterdam, 20:50

These most recent winners of the Icelandic Wacken Metal Battle play black metal as technically precise as it is intensely powerful.

THE BARR BROTHERS (CA) Sat, Harpa Norðurljós, 20:50

Brothers and friends who infuse organic field recordings into folk-rock inspired by the sights of nature set against Montreal’s urban jungle.

BÁRUJÁRN

Sun, Gamli Gaukurinn, 21:00

A rag-tag band of hippie ne’er-do-wells doling out gothy surf-punk tunes from even further beyond the valley of the dolls.

BEATMAKIN TROOPA Wed, Faktorý Upstairs, 22:50

Bandmate of Jafet Melge in Stereo Hypnosis (and also his son!), this young trooper an electronic-based guitarist infused with depth and soul.

BEN FROST (AU/IS)

Fri, Iðnó, 01:00 Sat, Fríkirkjan, 20:00 (Solaris special performance)

Having recently completed a two-year mentorship with Brian Eno (famous for being bloody brilliant), Ben will no doubt be showing off some new moves in his already impressive experimental skills.

BENDAGRAM (FI)

Fri, Faktorý Upstairs, 23:20

Attempting experimental collisions in sound from Seattle to tribal Africa and routed through Finland, these pop singers have found the formula for fun.

BENEATH

Fri, Amsterdam, 00:10

A rapid firing death metal squad whose members come from such Icelandic metal greats as Sororicide, Atrum and Diabolus, and employ a drummer who could rival a rifle.

BENJAMIN (FO)

Sat, Amsterdam, 20:50

He gave up the violin at age six and gave up the Faroe Islands for a tribal life. Now he plays simple and spiritual pop-rock that comes from the bottom of his heart.

BENNI HEMM HEMM Sat, Harpa Silfurberg, 21:10

After five albums and countless years of touring, this beloved bandolier has assembled his largest and loudest ensemble to date, with the intent of rocking out.

BERNDSEN

Sat, Faktorý Upstairs, 01:10

This synthpop teddy bear will flirt with you and flip you off, make you dance and maybe help you get off; you’ll definitely have a super time

BIGGI HILMARS

Thu, Harpa Kaldalón, 23:20

One of the most sought-after pop and electronic soundtrack makers in Iceland. Being handpicked by Ridley Scott is nothing to sneeze at!

BIX

FOR A MINOR REFLECTION

Fri, Harpa Norðurljós, 20:50

Terrifying, ferocious and incredibly forceful black metal that will instil doom in the hearts of all who cross it, and cause all heads to thrash uncontrollably.

APPARAT ORGAN QUARTET

After skipping last year’s festival, Iceland’s favourite undergarment exposing electro-pop bunch are back as strong as ever, with their new hit singles promising a great album on the way!

Fri, Harpa Norðurljós, 22:30

The post-rock revival lives strong in this band of guitar-soarers whose guitarist moonlights as a touring member of Sigur Rós. Grandiose and gripping.

Thu, Iðnó, 20:50

THE FOREIGN RESORT (DK)

Experimental prog folk created in the isolated bliss of Húsavík with a live show that fits in more guests than a tiny car does clowns.

Thu, Amsterdam, 22:30

Full of the new wave melancholy of The Cure and Echo & the Bunnymen filtered through a wall of sound, they will imprint themselves in your ears and your emotions.

Thu, Iðnó, 20:00

Whisky-sloshing, word slurring, gravel-toned tavern blues for those with a predilection towards folk tales about the devil and Tom Waits.

CROISZTANS

Sat, Amsterdam, 01:10

FACTS

DANÍEL BJARNASON

Fri, Iðnó, 20:00 Sat, Fríkirkjan, 20:00 (Solaris special performance)

From conducting to composition, this classical avant-gardist’s work transcends the canon and his contemporaries alike.

DAUGHTER (UK) Sat, Fríkirkjan, 21:30

Following in the haunting footsteps of Bat For Lashes, this Londoner keeps her heart on her sleeve and pours her sadness into her mystical songs.

Z. Cole Smith and his Brooklynite buddies trip the fuck out and crank up the reverb in this instrumental driven, psychedelic post-punk band.

DIKTA

Thu, Harpa Silfurberg, 22:10

A passionate and well-respected rock band for the past decade, they just released their fourth album and won their second Icelandic Music Award for Peoples’ Choice.

DIMMA

Sat, Gamli Gaukurinn, 20:50

From the ashes of a band that was banned in South Korea for “immorality,” this highly conceptual hard rock band emerged to make powerhouse metal operas.

DIRTY PROJECTORS (US) Sat, Reykjavík Art Museum, 00:00

One of the most unwaveringly experimental bands in the world, beloved by David Byrne, Björk and Beyoncé’s little sister Solange

BOOGIE TROUBLE

Fri, Harpa Kaldalón, 19:10 Sun, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 00:00

These fairly newcomers on the dancefloor have hustled their way into our hearts with their faithful disco revival.

BORKO

Fri, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 21:40

When he’s not touring with múm or taking his pants off with FM Belfast, this loveable songster plinks around his guitar and makes us smile.

BOY (CH/DE)

Sat, Harpa Norðurljós, 00:20

A Hamburg-based duet of upbeat, bluesy, indie rock that will set your fingers on snap and your toes on tap.

BRAIN POLICE

Sat, Gamli Gaukurinn, 00:10

If Macho Man Randy Savage was reincarnated as an Icelandic band, he would be these no-nonsense, balls-in-the-air, hard rocking slim-jims.

BYPASS

Sat, Faktorý Downstairs, 22:00

They may be relative newcomers on the electronic scene, but this pair have quickly become the go-to guys for the techno parties in town.

CAPTAIN FUFANU

Fri, Faktorý Upstairs, 00:20

When he’s not hosting his popular radio show on X-ið or taking care of business at the Extreme Chill festival, he’s making his own smooth, spaced-out, tropical dub.

DJANGO DJANGO (SCO) Sat, Harpa Silfurberg, 00:00

A dance-heavy band that fuses the jangly pop styles of their countrymen Dogs Die In Hot Cars with the trippy innocence of the Beach Boys.

DOLDRUMS (CA) Thu, Iðnó, 00:20

Androgynous, hyperactive, delirious and multifaceted. Doldrums is from neither here nor there and only inhabits his favourite space—the internet.

DR. SPOCK

Flipping the biggest proverbial bird to the modern Icelandic rock crowd, this uncontrollable, outrageous band have their tongues firmly planted in cheek.

DREAM CENTRAL STATION Fri, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 02:10

Blackest of black clothing, sunglasses at night, happy when it rains and only smile when you’re dead. Serious rock for the ultra cool.

THE ECHO VAMPER (DK) Thu, Gamli Gaukurinn, 21:40

Teenage Jesus is dead and the Jerks have retired, making room this raspy vamp with a shredding wail to take the reins of gothic psycho-punk.

THE ECLECTIC MONIKER (DK)

Thu, Harpa Kaldalón, 20:50

From the unlikely lovechild of members of Valdimar and Lifun, this sweet, folky pop band has grown into a six-piece that puts on a super-emo live show.

ELEKTRO GUZZI (AT)

Fri, Faktorý Upstairs, 01:10 Sat, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 01:20

Using standard rock instruments in unlikely ways is the M.O. for this highly technical and forceful techno band, making it no wonder that they’re standard players at the Sónar and Mutek festivals.

ELÍN EY

Wed, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 20:50 Sun, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 22:00

Queen of the blues and killer of ladies, Miss Ey sticks to the 12-bar basics with grace, conviction and ferocious sincerity

One of the hardest working hardcore bands in the country, and the former band of Ólafur Arnalds, these badass bros keep their friends the tightest.

Seductive, percussive pop music that embodies the sexy summer streets of NYC and the personal empowerment of Rookie Mag.

FU KAISHA

Thu, Faktorý Upstairs, 20:00

FUNK THAT SHIT!

Wed, Amsterdam, 20:50

These guys as so funking funky it’s not even funking funny! If you want your mind blown by some technical prowess, don’t miss that shit!

FUTUREGRAPHER

Thu, Faktorý Upstairs, 00:20

Fri, Amsterdam, 21:40

It might always be sunny in Philly, but these two local distortion punks are keeping it noisy, too.

HEFLARNIR

Wed, Amsterdam, 22:30

The ultimate Icelandic dad-rock straight out of bad-ass Akureyri town, ripe with ‘50s party slang and some smooth synth grooves.

HELLVAR

Wed, Gamli Gaukurinn, 22:30 Sun, Amsterdam, 23:00

Like a musical chameleon, this versatile pop-punk band seem able to adapt to any environment and keep the crowd happy.

HERMIGERVILL

Fri, Faktorý Upstairs, 21:40 Sat, Faktorý Downstairs, 03:00 (DJ SET)

Drawing inspiration from famous children’s literature and fellow Scandinavian Lykke Li, this indie-pop is innocent and gripping at once.

HINIR GUÐDÓMLEGU NEANDERDALSMENN Wed, Amsterdam, 21:40

Cheekily calling themselves ‘Neanderthals’, this self-admitted senior’s band will keep on rocking forever, and ever, and ever…

HJÁLMAR & JIMI TENOR (IS/FI) Fri, Harpa Silfurberg, 00:00

Two artists that stand alone in their own right. Hjálmar led the rise of reggae in Iceland and Mr. Tenor, well, he’s just in a league of his own.

Wed, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 21:40

HOLLOW VEINS

GABRÍEL (W. SPECIAL GUESTS)

This hip hop beatmaker keeps his face concealed behind a crocheted veil while a slew of local greats take on the vocals. Who will they be?

GANG RELATED

Thu, Amsterdam, 21:40

They might sound like a bunch of sweet-sounding rockers at first, but don’t be fooled—they’re just out to break your heart in song-form.

Fri, Faktorý Downstairs, 21:00

Sun, Gamli Gaukurinn, 22:00

Guitar-based and raspy voiced, the kind of good ol’ rock that takes a page from The Beatles’ later albums and the Haight-Ashbury scene.

Wed, Amsterdam, 23:30

A pair of expats (one Irish, one American) who share a proclivity for making grinding, noisy wails of experimental, extra-sensory madness.

HOUSEKELL

Sat, Faktorý Downstairs, 00:00

Veteran party-maker in Reykjavík’s club scene, he just won the Movida Corona DJ contest. He’s off to Stockholm after Airwaves to try for the world title.

Stepping aside from his skweee title of Rabbi Bananas for a minute to make some smooth electronica that he personally calls Nü R&B. It might just catch on.

HUDSON WAYNE

Thu, Harpa Kaldalón, 19:10

I BREAK HORSES (SE)

GHOST TOWN JENNY (US)

Possessing an effortless and ethereal howl and remarkable instrumental arrangements, each song is like its own contained fairy tale.

GHOSTIGITAL

Sat, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 21:40

As unconventional and disjointed as music can possibly get, this project by Einar Örn and Curver can be polarizing, but it always gets a reaction.

GHOSTPOET (UK)

Fri, Harpa Kaldalón, 20:50

Kicking around for the past decade, this moonshiney alt.country band has seen many changes but never let the bastards grind them down.

Sat, Iðnó, 23:20

Droning, noisy shoegaze created over three years by this Stockholm duo in a painstaking process of destroy-build-destroy. The results were worth the wait.

INTRO BEATS

Thu, Faktorý Downstairs, 21:40

When he’s not making beats for his hip hop crew Forgotten Lores or other Reykjavík rappers, Intro Beats tones it way down with soulful electronica that’s surprisingly bouncy.

Minimalist, ethereal hip hop driven by Obaro Ejimiwe’s heritage and subconscious, given the stamp of approval from The Streets’ Mike Skinner.

JACK MAGNET QUINTET

Thu, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 22:10

JAFET MELGE

GÍSLI PÁLMI

A notorious figure in Icelandic rap and dubstep who has recently cleaned up his act and is living life on the straight and narrow.

GLUTEUS MAXIMUS Fri, Faktorý Upstairs, 02:10

Appropriately named for the muscles that this music will get moving, DJ Margeir and GusGus’ own President Bongo shall leave no booty unshaken.

GONE POSTAL

Fri, Amsterdam, 02:00

GOOD MOON DEER Fri, Faktorý Upstairs, 20:50

An electro-pop two-piece best set as a soundtrack to visuals—fashion, art, dance, what have you. Perhaps the music to check out peoples’ outfits to.

GP!

Wed, Harpa Kaldalón, 21:40

These instrumental rockers have cherry picked elements of pop music from the ‘60s until today, seamlessly blending them into innovative, fun tunes.

GUSGUS

Sat, Harpa Silfurberg, 01:00

One of Iceland’s most enduring bands, who defined much of the local electronic scene. Their Airwaves shows have become hard-to-get-into spectacles of delight

Sigur Rós played the festival for the first time in 2000. This will be their first performance at Airwaves since 2001.

Wed, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 22:30

HLJÓMSVEITIN ÉG

Dark, stoic and hateful, this blackened-death metal band have won their way to Wacken and still hold their own at home

Airwaves 2004 line-up included: The Shins, Hot Chip, Four Tet, The Stills, Kid Koala, Mugison, GusGus and Ghostigital.

HIGHASAKITE (NO)

A one-man forcefield, making next level acid house that will be raised even higher with the live help of radical political poet Guðjón Heiðar on vocals.

GUÐRIÐ HANSDÓTTIR (FO) Sat, Harpa Kaldalón, 20:00

A folksy Faroese gal now living in Iceland with sea salt running as thickly in her blood as in her songs.

HAIM (US)

Thu, Gamli Gaukurinn, 00:10

Not named after the late ‘80s teen idol, these LA sisters and drummer friend embody that hazy, funky west coast sound perfect for bumping-and-grinding.

ELIZA NEWMAN

Wed, Harpa Kaldalón, 23:20

The smooth jazztronica project of Reykjavík cult figure and former Stuðmenn member Jakob Frímann Magnússon.

Wed, Faktorý Upstairs, 20:10

With electricity pumping through his veins since his teen years, this former sonic-terrorist now makes atmospheric, hypnotherapeutic soundscapes.

JAMIE N COMMONS (UK) Thu, Harpa Silfurberg, 21:20

Sharing his name with one of his closest sonic contemporaries Jamie Lidell this young man has the voice and soul of one twice his age.

JAPANESE SUPER SHIFT AND THE FUTURE BAND Fri, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 20:00

These indie rockers take their cues from the great legacy of ‘90s alterna-emo bands in content and sound.

JESUSLESFILLES (CA) Sat, Gamli Gaukurinn, 22:30

A francophone answer to the mid-noughties post-punk revival with battling boy-girl vocals. Music to act too cool for school or to freak out to.

JÓN ÞÓR

Sun, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 21:00

This quirky gent is a former member of Dynamo Fog and Lada Sport, now making carefree, jangly Scando-pop.

JUST ANOTHER SNAKE CULT Fri, Gamli Gaukurinn, 20:00

Keeping the psychotropic spirit of ‘60s pop alive, this solo-project turned live-band just might have a little too much to dream every night

KIRA KIRA

Sat, Harpa Kaldalón, 21:40

The woman behind the moniker has been mega-busy., She lent her experimental senses to direct the documentary Grandma Lo-Fi and just released her third album in May.

KIRIYAMA FAMILY

Wed, Harpa Silfurberg, 20:50 Fri, Harpa Silfurberg, 21:20

Thu, Harpa Kaldalón, 21:40

The spirit of the late ‘70s is alive in this synth-rock band that would make Toto, Boston and Supertramp way proud.

The former frontwoman of the band Kolrassa Krókríðandi (also known as Bellatrix) and a key figure in the Trúbatrix movement has just released her latest adorable album. In two languages, to boot.

EMMSJÉ GAUTI

Thu, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 20:40 Sat, Faktorý Upstairs, 03:00

A player in the hip hop community for ten years and still only 22, it’s no wonder this MC is all about the swag.

ENDLESS DARK

Fri, Gamli Gaukurinn, 01:10

Because every generation needs teen-angst metal played by a bunch of hotties, this band is great to get the rage out to or just get a crush on

ENKÍDÚ

Wed, Faktorý Downstairs, 21:40

Hell bent on keeping up anonymity behind a mask, this dude frenetically mixes disco, pop and funk into a space-jam party.

EWERT AND THE TWO DRAGONS (EE)

Fri, Amsterdam, 01:10

The first Iceland Airwaves took place on a single night in an airplane hangar in 1999 with only four bands on the bill.

Drying up the cold Danish rain with warm winds and delightful Afrobeats, a seven-piece band that are contributing to global warming.

ELDAR

Sat, Reykjavík Art Museum, 23:00

Sat, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 23:20

Fri, Harpa Kaldalón, 00:10

Thu, Iðnó, 22:30

CELESTINE

The festival was originally under the management of Mr. Destiny until they folded in 2010. It is now produced by Iceland Music Export.

Sat, Gamli Gaukurinn, 23:20

EPIC RAIN

Don’t let their fresh, young faces fool you – it doesn’t get proggier than these prog-pop mop-heads around here

HEAVY MEDICAL (US)

FRIENDS (US)

GEIR HELGI

Wed, Faktorý Upstairs, 22:10

Playing their first gig in 2008 at age 16 left their audience astounded. Now they and their electronica have grown up to be quite sophisticated.

CATERPILLARMEN

Arguably the most famous quote about Airwaves comes from Rolling Stone’s David Fricke who called it “the hippest long weekend on the annual musicfestival calendar.”

DJ ANDRE

Sat, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 22:30

From art school to the bedroom to the warehouse studio, these Portland new wavers recall the dreamy wonder of obscure ‘80s indie.

‘Heavy’ as in gut-wrenching and ‘experience’ as in talented-as-fuck this jazz-core experimental band are a total psychic trip

Turning hymns and new wave hits into 8-bit, playing guess-who games on stage and getting bodies moving. A one-man band extraordinaire

This synthesizer addict has an affinity for Ritalin-heads, funky octogenarians, cyborgs and candy-bar hoppers. Grab some Pixie Stix and bounce.

Sat, Iðnó, 00:10

BLOODGROUP

Fri, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 23:20

Iceland Airwaves Facts & Trivia

DIIV (US)

An electronica mastermind member of the local Weirdcore crew, this man-behind-the-mask made an impressive live debut at last year’s Airwaves.

BLOUSE (US)

Thu, Harpa Norðurljós, 20:00

If you are ever in a remote, possibly fictional country in Eastern Europe and get a chance to see a drunken hick fight, it will be something like this: a wild treat.

Thu, Faktorý Upstairs, 21:20

An electro-pop outfit that stepped out of the ramshackle houses of east Iceland and planted themselves on the shimmering stages of Reykjavík.

THE HEAVY EXPERIENCE

Sat, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 20:50

An Icelandic answer to Buck 65, this act combines hip hop vocals with vaudevillian blues, Danny Elfman lullabies and cabaret folk.

Thu, Harpa Kaldalón, 00:10

Nothing wrong with folk tales recited start to end over a fine blend of Americana tunes and traditional Baltic instruments.

HALF MOON RUN (CA) Fri, Harpa Silfurberg, 23:00

This folksy electro-pop trio overcame personal and financial setbacks and channelled their passion back into their songwriting.

HALLELUWAH

Thu, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 21:20

English-language rap over proto-2004 post-punk from two members of Quarashi, resulting in something perfect for an iPod ad.

HAM

Thu, Harpa Norðurljós, 22:30

Locally legendary, this is grime-dripping hard rock from a bunch of fogies who have been through some shit and now run the city government

HANNE KOLSTØ (NO) Thu, Harpa Kaldalón, 22:30

A powerhouse singer who lays her sultry, androgynous pipes over dark, low-key new wave that uses any instrument lying around.

HAZAR

Fri, Faktorý Downstairs, 01:00

A super-hyper techno-pop man who has one simple goal: get a party started with party people and party music and party all night long. Party.

KOOL THING (DE)

Fri, Gamli Gaukurinn, 21:40

One from Sydney, one from Dublin, met in Paris and recorded in Berlin. Their wanderlust has resulted in doomy, delay-heavy experimental rock.

KWES (UK)

Sat, Reykjavík Art Museum, 21:00

Having worked with a slew of hot buzz indie bands, this Londoner has emerged as a songwriter striking a pleasant similarity to TV On The Radio.

LANGI SELI OG SKUGGARNIR Fri, Harpa Kaldalón, 21:40

Kicking around since the late ‘80s, these rockabilly cool cats throwback to when rock’n’roll just hit Iceland courtesy of Uncle Sam.

LÁRA RÚNARS

Thu, Harpa Silfurberg, 20:30

Taking it down a notch from her early work of hyper-cheerful pop, Lára’s newest songs are the most introspective and seriously crafted she’s made to date

LAY LOW

Fri, Fríkirkjan, 20:30

From viral internet sensation to rocking band member to serious solo artist, Lay Low has grown up fast and changed a lot but still keeps things nice and relaxed.

LEAVES

Thu, Gamli Gaukurinn, 20:50

Although they’ve been around and received good attention since 2001, this powerful indie band is only just finishing their fourth album, due out any day.

LEGEND

Wed, Gamli Gaukurinn, 23:20 Sat, Faktorý Upstairs, 22:30

Highly conceptual, referential and danceable, this new-darkwave duo have the big ones it takes to back up their name.

LOCKERBIE

Wed, Gamli Gaukurinn, 21:40

Influenced by distinctly Icelandic post-rock (you know who!) and blended with basic pop-rock to create something both ambient and accessible.

LOVE & FOG

Thu, Amsterdam, 20:50

With ‘80s new wave pop back in full force, these former Dynamo Fog members make a solid addition reminiscent of Tears For Fears and upbeat Depeche Mode.

LOVE DEMONS

Wed, Gamli Gaukurinn, 20:00

Cold, dark post-punk with Iceland’s best ever Andrew Eldritch impersonator. One could even dare to say they are goth rock.

LOW ROAR (IS/US)

Fri, Harpa Kaldalón, 20:00

For every homesick person and over-wandered soul, this man sings the ballads of the struggling expat set to brooding electro-acoustic melodies.

M-BAND

Wed, Faktorý Upstairs, 19:30

Although his gear and basic tracks are the same, this live mixing electronic artist never performs the same set twice… at least not on purpose.

MAGNÚS LEIFUR

Wed, Harpa Kaldalón, 20:50

The former singer of Úlpa has been making his first solo album and has a bad case of cabin fever from it! He will emerge briefly to perform with friends.

MAMMÚT

Wed, Harpa Silfurberg, 22:30 Fri, Reykjavík Art Museum, 23:00

Having grown up from their wild, frantic roar of youth, this indispensable rock band have slowed down and chilled out, but kept the fire lit in their oven

ME AND MY DRUMMER (DE) Fri, Harpa Silfurberg, 20:30

Having met in the enigmatic world of the theatre, they translated their passions into a secret musical language to match their dreams.

MIKAEL LIND

Wed, Faktorý Downstairs, 20:50

Living in Iceland since 2006, this Swedish experimentalist has two albums under his belt and a live show that takes on unique forms each time.

MO KENNEY (CA) Sat, Iðnó, 20:50

A fast finger-picking folkster who was inspired to pick up the guitar by hearing Elliot Smith in a Wes Anderson film. She’s been reeling in praise ever since.

MOMENTUM

Sat, Gamli Gaukurinn, 02:00 Sun, Amsterdam, 00:00

Like a fire-breathing, redbearded dragon soaring through the sky, this bowel-shattering metal band will delight and terrify.

MONOTOWN

NELSON CAN (DK)

Fri, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 20:50

Denmark’s answer to the Vivian Girls, these funky Riot Grrls are all grit and sass and no nonsense.

NICO MUHLY (US) Fri, Iðnó, 23:00

This young man possesses more talent in his right pinkie than the entire province of New Brunswick. Hence why he collaborates with the likes of Phillip Glass and Antony Hegarty.

NOISE

Thu, Amsterdam, 23:20

On the cusp of releasing their fourth full-length album, these hard grunge-rockers are making their most well-crafted and anthemic songs to date.

NOLO

Fri, Reykjavík Art Museum, 20:00

This two-piece act defies the rest of the local lo-fi movement by soaking themselves in the ‘80s New Romantic sound and touches of Kraut influence

NÓRA

Wed, Harpa Kaldalón, 22:30

Synth-focused indie rock with the charming highlight of siblings Egill and Auður’s duelling vocal harmonies. Their second album will be hitting the shelves soon.

MORÐINGJARNIR Sat, Amsterdam, 00:10

These avuncular, hirsute fellows craft a fine blend of fast-paced punk rock and off-the-cuff Icelandic humour. Have some chuckles with your moshing!

Wed, Iðnó, 22:30 Sat, Reykjavík Art Museum, 20:00

As quirky and cutesy-buttons as they come, this local indie-pop supergroup of indie-pop is all frills and fun and paper crowns

PURITY RING (CA)

Thu, Harpa Silfurberg, 23:10

With the frenetic Deep South hip hop beats under lush dream-pop synths and vocals, it seems fitting they released their debut album on 4AD.

PUZZLE MUTESON (UK) Fri, Iðnó, 22:10

Like his name suggests, this acoustic songster is a like a riddle. Attempts to solve have been made by Sam Amidon, Antony Hegarty and Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy.

QUADRUPLOS

Thu, Faktorý Upstairs, 22:00

Toning it down from their early recordings of hyperactive grimecore, this duo is taking on trippy breakbeats that still stay right on the edge.

Fri, Faktorý Downstairs, 23:00

These self-proclaimed local remix masters will be switching up their live antics of sitting in a car to getting their asses on stage for once.

OCULUS

Thu, Faktorý Downstairs, 23:30 Fri, Faktorý Upstairs, 03:00

A mesmerising house DJ with years of experience and 13 albums to his name, this local fixture puts as much into his performances as he puts in his mixes.

OF MONSTERS AND MEN Thu, Harpa Silfurberg, 00:10

From Iceland’s Battle of the Bands to the MTV Awards, these indie-folksters have taken the world by storm and aren’t stopping any time soon

OJBA RASTA

Wed, Harpa Silfurberg, 21:40 Sat, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 00:20

You guys up for some reggae tonight? This super-huge old-school dub group is pure, warm, laid back rhythms to make you forget what island you’re on

ÓLAFUR ARNALDS

Fri, Harpa Norðurljós, 21:40

Ultra prolific and world renowned, Ólafur Arnalds breaks from trotting his magnificent neo-classical piano tunes around the world for a hometown show

ÓLÖF ARNALDS Sat, Iðnó, 22:30

Recognised as one of the most unique and exceptional song-writers in the country, this multi-instrumentalist’s gifts are enigmatic to say the least.

OYAMA

Thu, Amsterdam, 20:00

RANGLEKLODS (DK) Thu, Faktorý Upstairs, 22:40

Not content to just play the typical solo laptop show, this multilayered oddball pop-maker acts out on stage with vocals, instruments, knobs and moves.

RETRO STEFSON

Wed, Harpa Silfurberg, 00:10 Sat, Harpa Silfurberg, 23:00

One of the most notoriously fun bands in the country who blend the best of pop, rock, funk, afro-jazz and electro into a colourful, frenzied fiesta

RETROBOT

Wed, Gamli Gaukurinn, 20:50

These electronica darlings recently conquered Iceland’s Battle of the Bands, which has launched a bunch of well-loved acts. Keep an eye on these kids

REYKJAVÍK!

Fri, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 01:20

Freshly back from doing performance art in Japan with dancer Erna Ómarsdóttir, this will be a rare treat of a show. When in Reykjavík, do as Reykjavík! does.

RÖKKURRÓ

Sat, Harpa Norðurljós, 20:00

With their lead singer finally back from a year in Japan, this gentle, haunting and dreamy vocal post-rock band are poised for a glorious return.

RUBIK (FI)

Fri, Reykjavík Art Museum, 22:00

High octane, Prozac pop music that is heavy on the beats and tightly contained until it freaks out in your face. Toes won’t refrain from tapping.

SAM AMIDON (US)

Thu, Faktorý Downstairs, 22:30

With a slight case of confused island-mentality, this reggae collective keep their minds and I and I in Jamaica.

Fri, Iðnó, 00:00

Yet another highly prolific and exceptional member of the Bedroom Community family. A modern-day raconteur filtered by detuned minimalism and wit.

SAMARIS

Wed, Faktorý Upstairs, 00:10 Thu, Reykjavík Art Museum, 20:00

Thu, Iðnó, 23:20

Much like their fellow Montrealers Wolf Parade, this is lo-fi bedroom recorded indie rock with howling wails. Or maybe they’re just slowly shouting the password…

PATRICK WOLF (ACOUSTIC) (UK) Fri, Fríkirkjan, 21:30

A British prodigy of classically trained experimental-pop, with a collaboration roster that makes art-nerds weep. Promising to be a unique experience

PAUL CORLEY (US) Fri, Iðnó, 20:40

One doesn’t need to look further for ambient music cred than this man, who’s mingled with Tim Hecker, Valgeir Sigurðsson and soundtracked Sofi Oksanen’s ‘Purge’.

SINDRI ELDON & THE WAYS Sat, Amsterdam, 02:00

He wishes he was a little bit taller, wishes he was a baller, he wishes he was an American ‘90s indie rocker. That would be just dandy.

SISY EY

Fri, Faktorý Upstairs, 22:30

Sisters Elín, Elisabet and Sigríður Eyþórsdóttir moonlight from their acoustic solo acts to team up with friends Carmen and Oculus, making gorgeous vocal house music with fancy beats

SKÁLMÖLD

These internationally celebrated Viking-metal lords will rock the mjölnir right off your neck. Grab a ram’s horn and go for the plunder

SKÚLI SVERRISSON

A punk-rock Mexican stand-off between two aggressive guitars and a noisy synth where the where the drums call the shots.

SHABAZZ PALACES (US)

Thu, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 00:00

Alchemic Bedouin herders of the great American art form known as hip hop, gazing at the stars while turning the tables.

SÓLEY

Wed, Iðnó, 21:40 Thu, Reykjavík Art Museum, 22:00

One of the busiest people in our fruitful local indie-pop world, she’s as delightful on her own as when she plays with Seabear and Sin Fang

SÓLSTAFIR

Fri, Gamli Gaukurinn, 22:30

Cheerful, clap-along indie rock that has gained praise in their homeland that is now spreading through Europe. First they took Paris, now they’ll take Reykjavík.

Heavy metal old-timers still dearly beloved after many years and many changes. Their live show is one of hard, unabashed mayhem

MR. SILLA

Sat, Harpa Kaldalón, 00:20

One should never go to a party without a six pack, and this six-pack of friends are a party unto themselves with members from every awesome band in town.

MUCK

Thu, Amsterdam, 00:10 Sat, Gamli Gaukurinn, 20:00

The most active and advanced hardcore band on the scene—of legal age at least! Face-shredding, no holds barred fury that always delivers an incredible experience

MY BUBBA & MI Sat, Iðnó, 20:00

Country-fried lullaby pop by a couple of cuties armed with old-timey folk instruments, keeping things sweet and simple.

MYRKÁ

Sat, Amsterdam, 20:00

Folk-tinged goth rock with a touch of romance made for modern day ballrooms and midnight picnics in the graveyard.

MYRRA RÓS

Wed, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 20:00

Thu, Reykjavík Art Museum, 21:00

Maybe the band with the most Pitchfork buzz, this electronic duo played all the major summer festivals and opened for the XX and The Antlers.

PHILCO FICTION (NO) Sat, Harpa Silfurberg, 22:00

Bluesy and ambient, this emo-pop band mixes Motown horns with trip hop rhythms creating distinct, fluttering tunes.

PLASTIC GODS

Sat, Gamli Gaukurinn, 21:40

Preparing for the zombie apocalypse is a little easier with this dystopic doom metal band that put on rip-roaring performances.

POLIÇA (US)

Thu, Reykjavík Art Museum, 23:00

Purified by the waters of Lake Minnetonka, this chilled-out electropop band emerged from the Gayngs collective to make Kanye West their fan.

Using sound in complex, concrete perfomative ways that create dimension, spatial confusion and directional force. An unrivalled acousmatic musician.

Wed, Harpa Kaldalón, 20:00

The artist formerly known as Klive is a one-man revolution of dreamy experi-tronica. His live shows lend well to improvising to expect the unexpected

ÚLFUR ÚLFUR

Thu, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 20:00 Sat, Faktorý Upstairs, 02:00

Melodic hip hoppers that get crazy amounts of radio airplay and still find time to mingle around with their friends Emmsjé Gauti and Agent Fresco.

ULTRA MEGA TECHNOBANDIÐ STEFÁN Sat, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 02:20 Sun, Gamli Gaukurinn, 00:00

Unique electro-pop music with elements of house, mainstream radio hits and a healthy dose of complete irreverence.

STAFRÆNN HÁKON

Going from spaghetti western rock’n’roll to full and live disco party rockers, this superband recall Jens Lekman and Surburban Kids With Biblical Names.

VACATIONER (US)

Sat, Harpa Norðurljós, 23:20

Wed, Amsterdam, 00:10

Truly well named, this nature-based psychedelia pop will carry you off to far destinations with a few notes and his smooth voice.

This chameleonesque combo have been around for years, dabbling in doomy ambient to heavy post-rock. Their latest album is their poppiest to date.

STEREO HYPNOSIS

Sat, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 20:00

Jafet Melge, aka cool dad Óskar, and Beatmakin Troopa, aka hip son Pan, keep their family tied by making organic experimental music. Aww!

STEVE SAMPLING

Fri, Faktorý Downstairs, 22:00

Producer extraordinaire of locals like Futuregrapher and Skurken who blends breakbeat, dubstep and hip hop beats in his own time.

STRIGASKÓR NR. 42 Sat, Gamli Gaukurinn, 01:10

Rocking garages in Kópavogur for going on twenty years, these dadpunks have gone from thrash metal to grunged out hard rock.

SUDDEN WEATHER CHANGE Thu, Gamli Gaukurinn, 22:30

A bunch of art school college pals who held the reigns in bringing the ‘90s alt-rock wave back to our shores and matured like a fine wine

SVARTIDAUÐI

THE VACCINES (UK)

Fri, Reykjavík Art Museum, 00:00

A fast-paced indie rock band that keeps up with fellow UK bands the Arctic Monkeys and Maxïmo Park. Hometown nod with an Icelandic bassist!

VALDIMAR

Sat, Iðnó, 01:10

Turning from a duo to a full-fledged drama-pop band in a few short years, it’s no wonder these dedicated and skilled players have gathered up a devoted local following.

VALGEIR SIGURÐSSON Fri, Iðnó, 21:20

Fri, Amsterdam, 20:00

This magnificent Bedroom Community member composes masterpieces of modern classical that bend the mind and wrench the heart.

Destructive black metal that has been celebrated at Norway’s Nidrosian Black Mass and Germany’s Deathkult Open Air. Nihilist, terrorizing and grim.

VIGRI

Thu, Harpa Kaldalón, 20:00

Named after a ship captained by the core members’ granddaddy, found sounds of Icelandic culture feature in this dark, Atlantic maritime rock.

Thu, Harpa Norðurljós, 23:30

Seminal experimental proto-industrial band led by the poster child of self-flagellation Michael Gira, legendary for their live antics and influential sound

THE VINTAGE CARAVAN Fri, Gamli Gaukurinn, 23:20

These dazed and confused youths are probably the best classic rock revivalists in the country right now. Long hair and leather tassels abound!

Wed, Harpa Silfurberg, 23:20 Sat, Faktorý Upstairs, 23:20

Already a party-favourite for the club kids, the addition of singer Agnes’ powerful pipes to this glossy electro band has put their live show over the top of crazy

WE MADE GOD

Thu, Faktorý Upstairs, 23:30

WISTARIA

Fri, Gamli Gaukurinn, 02:00

A permanent fixture on Airwaves’ Kerrang nights for their highly praised, intricate and atmospheric album ‘As We Sleep..

TANYA & MARLON

The coolest cousins in town that still break the rules like when they were 12; he as a fiercely unique MC and she as a co-founder of the Weirdcore crew.

Fri, Amsterdam, 23:20

Hardcore metal dudes with attitude that comes from their guts and hormones. Their shows are all about unleashing that primal, teenage fury inside us all.

WOODPIGEON (CA) Sat, Harpa Kaldalón, 22:30

This songwriter-by-happenstance hails from the dusty city of Calgary , but his music caresses rather than stampedes.

YLJA

Wed, Harpa Kaldalón, 19:10

PÉTUR BEN

PHANTOGRAM (US)

Wed, Faktorý Upstairs, 20:50

Fri, Reykjavík Art Museum, 21:00

Sat, Faktorý Upstairs, 21:40 Sun, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 23:00

When he’s not rocking a bass in Retro Stefson, this UK house hunk holds a resident DJ spot at Faktorý and has turned tables with the likes of Skream.

A stand-alone singer songwriter for his unique retro-rock sound and the kind of all-around nice guy that folks like Eberg and Kippi Kanninus love to work with.

Playing up on sonic dichotomies, this musical explorer is at once minimal and intricate, rich and stark, with a focus on the negative spaces.

ÚTIDÚR

SOMETIME

Sat, Faktorý Downstairs, 01:30

Fri, Harpa Kaldalón, 22:30

Wed, Faktorý Upstairs, 23:30

Take one part Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark, three parts synthesizers, one part video game controller and a dash of helium. Shake and spray all over the crowd!

Thu, Harpa Norðurljós, 21:40

PEDRO PILATUS MOSS (NL)

As if they hopped on a moon safari and never got off, this dramatic pop band is laden will soft grace and style.

TONIK

A rock band without clearly defined boundaries, they veer towards grunge, psychedelia and stoner rock yet never quite get there.

With the soul of Neil Young, the sweetness of Paul Simon and the bombastic flair of Harry Nilsson, a guitarist who turns acoustic music on its head.

SYKUR

Fri, Gamli Gaukurinn, 20:50 Sun, Amsterdam, 22:00

Wed, Harpa Silfurberg, 20:00 Fri, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 22:30

ÚLFUR

Wed, Harpa Kaldalón, 00:10

Sat, Harpa Silfurberg, 20:20

SAYTAN

TILBURY

Sun, Amsterdam, 21:00

An experimental bass player with more collaborators to name-drop than one can catch or keep up with. Needless to say he’s earned his reputation well.

SWANS (US)

Making good on their band name, literally, this jazz funk explosion tears out 16-minute tracks of “baaaaad” grooves, man.

Will the Italo-disco revival ever end? With this velvet voiced chanteuse slinking around on the radio and on stages, it sure doesn’t seem so.

TWO TICKETS TO JAPAN

Sat, Iðnó, 21:40

Blending classical instruments with laid back ‘90s electronica and hushed haunting vocals, they wrap up some serious talent with an atmospheric bow

SAMÚEL JÓN SAMÚELSSON BIG BAND

Wed, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 23:20 Sat, Faktorý Upstairs, 00:20

TROUBLE

Thu, Harpa Norðurljós, 20:50 Sun, Gamli Gaukurinn, 23:00

SNORRI HELGASON

Wed, Iðnó, 20:50

PASSWORDS (CA)

Since truncating his band name, this guy’s been bearing his teeth and grinding our gears. And we like it.

He doesn’t like to peg himself down to one style and experiments with diverse array of electronic styles, making him a super-active member of the local scene.

RVK SOUNDSYSTEM

Twins working their connection on the twee-est of all levels, this duo are the reigning sisters of sweet, the last serving of krútt on the menu. Call them just desserts.

THORUNN ANTONIA

Wed, Iðnó, 23:20 Sat, Reykjavík Art Museum, 22:00

Thu, Faktorý Upstairs, 20:40

Why just stand there when you can cross your arms and stare at the floor? Why listen to Ride or Belly when you can go see the new shoegazers on the block?

PASCAL PINON

SIN FANG

SKURKEN

NUKE DUKEM

Fri, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 00:20

Highly emotional rock with big booming vocals over melodic guitars. Newcomers on the scene that are quickly gaining a following.

PRINS PÓLÓ

From a clash of multi-cultures comes this mutli-faceted project of sensuous, psychedelic synth-pop led by the woman known as Beijng’s Queen of Rock.

MOONFACE WITH SIINAI (CA/FI)

Thu, Gamli Gaukurinn, 20:00

Ambient and melodic electronic music inspired by old 8-bit computer game music and acoustic instrumentation.

Thu, Gamli Gaukurinn, 23:20

Although their upcoming record will be their first, they got Grammy winner Michael H. Bauer to produce their western blues sound.

MORNING AFTER YOUTH

Wed, Faktorý Upstairs, 21:30

NOVA HEART (CN)

Fri, Harpa Norðurljós, 20:00

Yet another band of that most mega prolific indie Montrealer Spencer Krug, teaming up with the Finnish band he recorded with.

PRINCE VALÍUM

SHEARWATER (US)

Fri, Harpa Norðurljós, 00:20

Celebrated avant-garde indie composers that raise rock to new heights. They share a sound tech with Jónsi, Interpol and The National too.

SHIKO SHIKO (FR)

Fri, Harpa Kaldalón, 23:20

As if the spirit of Tony Wilson’s protégés A Certain Ratio were reborn in an ADHD afflicted French band. Jazzy post-punk that bounces off the walls.

SIGUR RÓS

Sun, Laugardalshöllin, 19:00 (ticket needed)

We know we don’t have to introduce them! This is the comeback event of the year and unless you can’t help it, DON’T MISS IT!

SIINAI (FI)

Sat, Harpa Kaldalón, 23:20

Like their contemporaries and local scene friends K-X-P, these Finns put their own 21st Century take on Kraut rock with a pleasant stoner rock spin.

A quartet of slow, swaying western folk with pop sensibilities and a heavy focus on vocal harmonies.

TECHNICAL KIDMAN (CA)

ÆLA

Sat, Amsterdam, 23:20

From the same scene of hyper-experimental, hallucinogenic artists like Doldrums and Suuns come these heavy dreamers with synths and torches.

Sat, Amsterdam, 22:30

This grunge-punk band aren’t ashamed to model their girlfriends’ wardrobes and will scream in your face while doing so.

THEE ATTACKS (DK)

ÞOKA

Fri, Gamli Gaukurinn, 00:10

Wed, Amsterdam, 20:00

Restraint is not in this band’s vocabulary. These maniac, attitudedriven rockers are all about being unabashed and brazen.

Third-place winners of the latest Icelandic Battle of the Bands, their velvet-voiced singer took the prize for her pipes. She is accompanied by skilled, smooth, jazz.

THEESATISFACTION (US)

Thu, Þýski Barinn/Deutsche Bar, 23:00

These spaced out Seattle hip hop femmes lay aloof, effortless vocals on psychedelic Afro-jazz and keep it cooler than cool.

THIZONE

Thu, Faktorý Downstairs, 20:50

A member of the legendary Reyk Veek collective that sneaks up on you with his unpredictable and unhinged electronic pulses.

ÞÓRIR GEORG

Sat, Amsterdam, 21:40

‘Lo-fi’ as in textured and complex and ‘indie’ as in fuck-you, this solo guitar-and-pedal slinger flips the proverbial table of the singersongwriter paradigm

THOR

Fri, Faktorý Downstairs, 02:30

Named Iceland’s DMC DJ Champion in 1989, this old schooler went on to work with Björk, Daníel Ágúst and Sigur Rós and can still hold his own.

A ripened troubadouress and one of the orchestrators of the local edition of Melodica, her acoustic stylings are all soul and no nonsense.

Feature Screenwriting Workshop

Acting for Stage and Screen

w/ Hafsteinn Gunnar Sigurðsson & Árni Ólafur Ásgeirsson Nov 12 – Dec 12

w/ Darren Foreman Oct 23 – Dec 13

6-week Filmmaking Workshop Intensive & Comprehensive Beginning Oct 26, Jan 18 & Mar 8

REYKJAVIK FILM ACADEMY www.reykjavikfilmacademy.com info@reykjavikfilmacademy.com

Don't Have A Ticket?

Off venues

Kaffibarinn Bergstaðastræti 1 Thursday-Saturday

Kaffibarinn is once again Bedroom Community’s official off-venue site this year. Expect to see Nico Muhly, Puzzle Muteson, Sam Amidon, Daníel Bjarnason and Ben Frost playing

Prikið Bankastræti 12 Wednesday-Friday 9:00-10:00 Rock & Bacon

Don’t Have A Ticket To Airwaves? You can still take part in some of the awesome festival fun! By Anna Andersen

ttention tourists who for some reason decided to visit Iceland at the end of October/beginning of November, you’ve probably noticed that there is this crazy music festival going on called Iceland Airwaves. Unfortunately it’s been sold out for months, but you can still experience the festival madness at hundreds of AWESOME and totally free off-venue shows. Even fancy wristband-holders will probably want to check a bunch of these out. While we typically try to avoid interviewing our friends and co-workers, the person in charge of putting together this year’s extensive off-venue schedule happens to be the Grapevine’s photographer Alísa Kalyanova. Having worked on it since mid-August, she is proud of the fruits of her labour: nearly double the number of venues as last year and a record number in Airwaves history. With the goal of appealing to all ages—young people, old people and nonwristband holders alike—the following are some exciting shows scheduled all over town, at bus stations, restaurants, bars, bookstores, hotels, shoe stores, clothing stores, chapels, concert halls, movie theatres, schools and more. They come with Alísa’s blessings. Just good luck making it to half of what you want to catch…

AIRWAVES JOURNAL

Enjoy live music with your hangover breakfast, if you happen to be up at 9 AM and the musicians themselves haven’t overslept!

Hlemmur Laugavegur 126

We wish we could write about more of these off-venue shows, but due to limited space on this page, this will have to do for now. Go to ww.airwaves.is or grab the nearest Airwaves booklet to check out the rest. Finally, there may be some secret shows, including a midnight gig at Hótel Borg (Shhh…don’t tell anyone), so keep your eyes peeled and your ears to the ground.

Saturday 15:00-19:00 Asonat, Futuregrapher, DJ AnDre, Beatmakin Troopa, Tonik

Go hang out at Reykjavík’s main bus terminal and enjoy some of Iceland’s finest electronica. This will be the first time Airwaves throws a concert at this location, which has featured in a number of films including Ólafur Sveinsson’s 2002 documentary ‘Hlemmur’ (“Last Stop”). Fun fact: Sigur Rós composed the soundtrack to that film.

Netagerðin Nýlendugata 14 Friday 19:00 Mugison

You may have noticed that Ísafjörður’s great Mugison is not anywhere to be found on the Airwaves schedule this year. But thankfully he will play one very special off-venue show at this design house down by the harbour. If you haven’t seen Mugison, go. If you have seen Mugison, you know what to do.

Mjódd Álfabakki 12 Friday 16:00-18:00 Sindri Eldon and The Ways, Jón Þór, Hollow Veins, AMFJ

Go rock out at this Breiðholt bus station (and not just because The Grapevine is heavily represented here). It’ll start calm, and then get progressively louder and

Grapevine Airwaves 2012

airwaves.grapevine.is

louder and louder. Alísa made AMFJ promise that he would not break the PA, but earplugs are still recommended. Go get grungy. Incidentally, you can catch a bus from this station all the way to Akureyri. Read about our journalist Mark O’Brien’s journey on page xx!

Mál og Menning Laugavegur 18 Friday 18:00 Dr. Gunni

Mál og Menning will only host one offvenue show this year. It’s a release show for ‘Stuð vors lands’ (“Pop Music In Iceland”) written by renowned music critic and occasional Grapevine contributor Dr. Gunni. Some of Iceland’s legendary singers will perform their best-known songs with Dr. Gunni’s band. Airwaves Festival Director Grímur Atlason has promised to make an appearance as a bass player, so you all have to be there.

Icelandic Bar Pósthússtræti 9 Thursday 18:00 Kleópatra

Reykjavík Mayor Jón Gnarr will perform with Sigurjón Kjartansson of HAM as the duo Kleópatra. They will sing ridiculously funny songs in Icelandic, so you will probably get more out of this if you speak the language, but you should go anyway. This is our mayor, come on!

Friday 18:00 HAM

tasty, fresh-baked pizza.

Bíó Paradís

Hverfisgata 54 Friday 18:30 Hjaltalín

Don’t miss Hjaltalín deliver a live performance of their score to the silent feature film, ‘Days of Gray,’ about the coming-ofage adventures of a young boy and girl.

KEX Skúlugata 28

KEX will once again be hosting KEXP radio, which will be live steaming all of the shows at this cosy hostel. Go early and snag a seat because it’s bound to be packed. If you miss anything though, you can go to KEXP.org and you will likely find it.

Menntaskólinn við Hamrahlíð (MH) Hamrahlíð 10 Friday

At 16:00 on Friday, after school gets out for the day, HM will turn into an offvenue. Go see where half of Iceland’s musicians went to high school and enjoy the programme including RetRoBot, who won this year’s Battle of the Bands, Gísli Pálmi (who may be on the cover of the paper you are holding) and a bunch of others.

Sirkus Port Klappastígur 30

The legendary rock band HAM at Icelandic Bar is a must-see event for all polar bear and puffin lovers alike. Read a feature interview with HAM in Issue xx, which you can find, along with lots and lots of old Grapevines, in the basement at Laundromat (which is also hosting offvenue shows).

Reykjavík used to have a popular bar called Sirkus. It unfortunately closed its doors in 2008 after an almost decade-long running. These days, the building houses a store called Macland. Macland and Hemmi og Valdi are putting their forces together to throw a party outside on the old Sirkus port. So the party returns for four days—Wednesday through Saturday—with dozens of Icelandic and foreign acts. If you’re looking for a party, this is the off-venue for you.

Salvation Army Chapel Kirkjustræti 2

Hressó Austurstræti 20 Wednesday-Saturday

You should drop by at some point to admire the beauty of this hidden gem of a chapel, which many probably didn’t know existed. It’s the first time the chapel has agreed to host off-venue shows.

Harpa

Austurbakki 2

Harpa is Airwaves headquarters this year. In addition to the official venues, there will be three off-venues: Munnharpan (the downstairs café), Kolabrautin (the upstairs restaurant and bar) and 12 Tónar (downstairs music store). You can basically just park yourself down there and spend the entire day enjoying nonstop concerts. But at least be sure to catch Steindór Andersen and Hilmar Örn’s exclusive concert at 12 Tónar on Thursday at 17:00 and Tilbury and Úlfur at Kolabrautin on Saturday starting at 15:20. Kolabrautin will also be serving up some

Hressó will have two stages: one outside under a tent hosting day-time shows and another inside with acoustic sessions. The outside programme will be packed with a bunch of Canadians and fresh Icelandic acts like Kiriyama Family, Caterpillarmen and Sudden Weather Change.

Introducing The Reykjavík Grapevine’s Airwaves Journal airwaves.grapevine.is Good news everyone! We’ve gone and made a special website dedicated to talking about the upcoming Iceland Airwaves festival in all sorts of ways. Yup, it’s the internet, so there will be no limit to what we can do save for our imagination. We can use all the fucking cuss words we want. We can post videos. Super long interviews. Or super short interviews. Or YouTube clips of kitties being all cute (THERE’S an idea!).

And we’ve already begun! Harnessing the untamed forces of two of our favourite Constant Contributors, the mighty Rebecca ‘Louder’ Louder and Bob ‘Bobarella’ Cluness, we’ve posted interviews with some mighty fine bands, some pretty rad tips & trix and not a few YouTube clips. And this is just the beginning! There will be contests! Free beer! News! Performances! More interviews!

Make sure to go to www.airwaves.grapevine.is right now. Bookmark that shit. And keep coming back. We promise to make it worth y’alls while!

ICELAND AIRWAVES OFF-VENUE PROGRAM AT KAFFIBARINN. Wednesday 31st October

Friday 2nd November

Saturday 3rd November

Jón Jónsson presents:

Bedroom Community & friends:

17:00 18:00 19:00 22:00

16.00 - 16:50: Michael Wookey 16:50 - 17:40: Shahzad Ismaily 17.40 - 18.30: Daníel Bjarnason 18:30 - 19:10: Sam Amidon

TBA Gang Related (live) Útidúr (live) Alfons X (DJ set)

Jón Jónsson presents: Thursday 1st November Bedroom Community & friends: 16.00 - 16:50: TBA 16:50 - 17:40: Nadia Sirota 17.40 - 18.30: Paul Corley 18:30 - 19:10: Ben Frost

22:00 23:00

Retrobot (live) Eric Duncan (Still Going, Rub N Tug) (DJ set) FKNHNDSM (DJ set)

Jón Jónsson presents: 20:00 Kool Thing (DJ set) 22:00 Sísí Ey (live) 23:00 Margeir (Gluteus Maximus) Sexy Lazer (Human Woman)

Sunday 4th November Jón Jónsson presents:

Jón Jónsson presents: 22:00 22:45

16.00 - 16:50: TBA 16:50 - 17:40: Markéta Irglóva 17.40 - 18.30: Puzzle Muteson 18:30 - 19:10: Nico Muhly

Radio Bongo Night

Captain Fufanu (live) DJ Casanova (DJ set)

Starts at 19:00 with

www.facebook.com/kaffibarinn www.kaffibarinn.is

Gluteus Maximus Högni Egilsson Davíð Þór Jónsson Óttar Sæmundsen Doktor Frisør and more...

Ólafur Arnalds

Grapevine Airwaves 2012

airwaves.grapevine.is

Interview

Breaking Out Of His Old Skin 2012 has seen Ólafur Arnalds on the verge of breaking through into the big time. If it doesn’t break him first… By Bob Cluness

“W

hat happened was a table attacked me! We were being filmed pretending to fight each other in a scene, but the director didn’t think that we were being realistic enough. So he pushed us, and we fell, except I literally fell on a nearby table, breaking my rib. The thing is that it didn’t actually hurt at the time, so we just kept going, which was a very bad idea as we had to re-shoot it the next day. This all happened two days before I went on a trekking holiday in Landmannalaugar with a 15-kilo backpack. A

lot of painkillers were consumed.” I’m sitting in a local coffee house while Iceland’s foremost contemporary composer Ólafur Arnalds recounts how he bust a rib whilst shooting a sketch for the song “Ekki gefast upp” (”Don’t Give Up”) with comedian Steindi Jr. for the popular Icelandic TV comedy show ‘Steindinn Okkar.’ If it seems amusing that one of Iceland’s foremost neo-classical composers is taking part in a TV sketch show, you’d be surprised to know that he also wrote the music for the song and recorded it in his studio with well-known Icelandic metal singer Eiríkur Hauksson (“He did it all in ONE take! I’ve never had that in my studio before.”). It’s been a very busy 12 months for Ólafur Arnalds. On top of breaking his body in the name of comedy gold, and meeting up with Hollywood stars such as Emma Watson, there has been an album of free music, numerous collaborative releases, film scores, as well as being busy in the studio composing and producing a new album for release in 2013. Even as we meet, he’s rather breathless, saying he’s just come from a photo shoot where he’s been standing in the cold weather for the last two hours. But it’s all just part of the fun challenge of it all. Back in October 2011, Ólafur made ‘Living Room Songs,’ which continued the concept he introduced in 2009 with ‘Found Songs.’ Over a single week, he composed and, recorded a single track for each day, which was accompanied with a video shoot and recorded in the living room of his Reykjavík apartment. “It worked well last time and I wanted to do it again,” Ólafur explains. “The idea behind both ‘Found Songs’ and ‘Living Room Songs’ was something to do in-between making albums. They’re just really short songs and ideas that I had that wouldn’t fit in the albums, but still wanted to release them so they weren’t just stuck in my head. In a way, ‘Living Room Songs’ is almost like b-sides, not songs that weren’t good enough, but songs that didn’t fit in to those concepts. And because I’m just getting them out there, I didn’t feel like charging for it.”

Vintage and new Clothing

Hverfisgata 39 / 101 Reykjavik / sími: 551-7999

scoring music for films and TV is enjoyable and represents a new challenge says Ólafur. ‘I’ve definitely had my panic attack moments for sure as I’m very much thrown into the pool with the big fish a lot with this. With most composers, they start with a lot of small things, some short films for the film school for example, so they learn gradually how to write and score. But with ‘A nother Happy Day,’ that was only the second film I’ve done. I actually told the producers “I don’t know what I’m doing, just so you know,” but they simply said ‘oh don’t worry, you’ll figure it out.’ “So I wrote a score and everybody was happy with it, they thought it was great. But then you have to do it again, for another film, except now it’s more stressful because whatever I did the first time worked, but I don’t know what it was that I did that actually worked. I always find myself calling friends such as Clint Mansell and asking him things like, “How do you start? How do you actually do this? What are the rules to writing a film score?” and he says is, “I’ve been doing this stuff for 25 years, and I have no idea what I’m doing either!” But I’m thinking, “that’s not helping!” Despite the increased workload across the board, Ólafur has been busy in the studio in 2012 producing his latest album. Titled ‘For Now I Am Winter,’ it’s scheduled for release in February next year. It seeks to expand on his original sound and the increasingly electronic nature of his music and will sound rather different previous efforts, says Ólafur. “Along with electronic sounds, the album takes another turn in that we’re using a full orchestra, so it’s far from being a minimal sound using a string quartet. I wrote the album with the same set up that I’ve always had, but after I finished writing it, I decided that it was missing something. I spoke with Nico Muhly and said that the music needed a second layer that we would put on top of the music. So I’ve been working with Nico on the orchestra arrangement, using the orchestra to add texture and character instead of arranging individual lines. Most of the actual melodies are still worked out on the piano, while the orchestra was performing more rhythmically. I’ve often been very restrained, but this album will be very maximal.” As well as being a more maximal sounding album, ‘For Now I Am Winter’ will, for the first time, contain vocals with Agent Fresco singer Arnór Dan singing on four of the tracks. “I was essentially looking to try something new,” explains Ólafur. “I always wanted to try with a singer and Arnór and I worked together last year on a song called “Old Skin.” I think that his voice fits the music perfectly. He has a very strong high range voice, very classical but still poppy. It just felt really right.” With the release of ‘For Now I Am Winter’ in 2013, it’s very likely we’re going to see and hear a lot more from Ólafur Arnalds. If we’re very lucky, we may even be treated to him being thrown around a lot more on our TV shows as well. drama during the festival, just music, love and happiness!

ÓLAFUR ARNALDS ALDS

As with the ‘Found Songs,’ the music from ‘Living Room Songs’ was released for free via Ólafur’s Twitter account. The idea of releasing music for free and having an open profile on social media such as Twitter is still very much the exception rather the rule amongst Icelandic musicians. Although this is something that Ólafur is comfortable with, he understands why some musicians are not so quick to take up on it. “It’s really exposing yourself in a certain way that people didn’t do before,” says Ólafur. “It’s not like they didn’t expose themselves before in different ways, but there was always this barrier between the artist and the listener. All you got to see of the artist were these perfect things, a finished album, a scripted interview, promo shots with makeup. Now people can get very close to you, and it can be difficult at times.” In terms of collaborative work, 2012 saw Ólafur venture into new sounds and challenges. Such an example was ‘Stare,’ an EP he released with fellow composer Nils Frahm on the Erased Tapes label in April 2012. Although its three tracks contained classically composed lines and the occasional drawing on cello strings, the music created is entirely electronic in its sound. It was anything but a planned journey says Ólafur. “The thing I did with Nils is almost a different band, a whole different project. We didn’t really decide on anything. One day I met Nils in Berlin and it so happened that he had this old synth plugged in and I just started playing it. It wasn’t a planned “let’s play some electronic music” type of idea. But that’s the beauty of it. There was no pressure, no deadline was involved. We didn’t even tell anyone that we were going to do this project. Not even Erased Tapes knew about it until they got the final master with completed artwork!” Although the journey into a more electronic style of music with ‘Stare’ may not have been planned, with Kiasmos, a side project he runs with Janus Rasmussen from the electronic group Bloodgroup, the main intent was to explore their shared interest and appreciation for minimal techno. September this year saw the re-

Ólafur Arnalds is performing on Friday November 2, 21:40, at Harpa Nórðurljós.

lease of ‘Thrown,’ a follow up EP to their 2009 debut ’65.’ While ‘65’ contained the hard pressured rhythms associated with hard techno, ‘Thrown’ sees Kiasmos go for a softer, more expansive sound. Asked about this change of music direction with Kiasmos, Ólafur explains “We didn’t do anything for over a year, but when we went back to the studio, we found that our ideas and interests in music had changed a bit and we were more interested in making something different and more organic instead of making a club track. I don’t care so much if people can actually dance to it or not. We bring very different qualities to Kiasmos. Janus is very electronic in his approach, while I’m more melodic. But there are no barriers in what we were trying to do. If we wanted strings with our music, then that’s what goes in.” Over the last couple of years, Ólafur has experienced increased exposure as a composer in the US. Songs such as “3326” and “Brotsjór” have been used on TV shows such as So You Think You Can Dance, while his song “Allt Varð Hljótt” was used in the soundtrack to the film ‘The Hunger Games.’ This year also saw the release of his composed score for the film ‘A nother Happy Day.’ Today, Ólafur mentions he’s currently writing the music for two more films while conducting talks about writing music for a TV show. While

October is Pink Ribbon Month, the month of Breast Cancer Awareness Reykjavik Excursions is happy to be able to support this good cause by contributing an amount for every Flybus passenger travelling with us in October and November 2012. By travelling with us you also make your contribution.

EXPO • www.expo.is

Pink Ribbon

BSÍ Bus Terminal • 101 Reykjavík +354 580 5400 • main@re.is www.re.is • www.flybus.is

Swans

Grapevine Airwaves 2012

airwaves.grapevine.is

Interview

On the new album it really sounds like you’re let go of all mental and creative barriers that were in your way. Do you feel like you have more freedom now? You mean I’ve gone insane? [Chuckles] I’ve always had freedom. Everybody has freedom they just have to grab it. I just didn’t relent on this record until both time and money ran out. I just didn’t allow any constraints as to length of songs, or the minutiae of arrangement, really until I was exhausted in every way. I don’t really look at records as being finished anymore. I just look at them like signposts along the road. The songs are always changing, like I mentioned. For me what’s important is the process rather than the finished product now.

The EverChanging Goal For Joy

What is the process of making an album like this for you personally? A lot of yelling and screaming and sleeping on the couch, pacing, drinking beer. Just work, you know. You record and then you think about what you did and then maybe add some stuff and eliminate some stuff. It’s really like building a house. I typically sleep in the studio, on the couch. I just kind of isolate myself and try not to think about much else than what’s going on. That can go on for months. I do eventually lose my mind, so… [laughs].

Michael Gira of SWANS talks about performance and the pushing of sound

So after this incredibly intense recording process, is going on tour the part where there’s a joyful release? The goal is joy, for sure, but you know you don’t really set out saying “Now we are going to experience ecstasy.” You just play, and you have to be committed to it, and sometimes it works very well and sometimes it’s just a total abject failure. But you don’t really have a choice.

By Rebecca Louder

ccasionally when you import music into your iTunes, it will aggravatingly insert the genre name as ‘Unclassifiable,’ which just sounds so pompous and convoluted. However there are bands for which the word is the only shoe that fits and an attempt to categorise them in any other way would be simplistic and shortsighted. Enter SWANS, one of the most indefinable and chameleonic groups of the past thirty years, led by their mastermind of ceremonies Michael Gira. After 15 years of activity, Michael disbanded the group in 1997 to focus on other projects and musical directions. Thirteen years later, he veered back onto a course that fit with SWANS and reincarnated the band. They have since released two albums and have gone back to touring extensively. Their most recent record, ‘The Seer,’ released on August 28, is already being hailed as one of the best albums of the year by critics and fans alike. We caught up with Michael at his upstate New York home as he was prepared for their upcoming tour.

This is kind of a second life, a rebirth, for the band. Has the long hiatus had an impact on the way you do things now in the group? Well first of all, SWANS in its first tenure morphed constantly, with members coming in and out, so it was never one group that was always on the same page. There were some constants; Norman Westberg and Jarboe were there pretty much throughout, although Norman dropped out towards the end. So it wasn’t really a

set thing anyway. Also, there wasn’t really a hiatus, at least not for myself. Of course the other guys made music too. I continued with Angels of Light and running Young God Records. To me, forming this updated version of SWANS was just a way of keeping myself interested in making music, because I kind of used up whatever nourishment was available in Angels of Light. I wanted to challenge myself. It’s definitely been rejuvenating and it’s work I enjoy. How do you envision your performance here going given the festival context with an hour-long set? I’m not sure. We do pretty well at festivals but [with only an hour] that should be funny! Our normal set has now grown to two and a half hours and that’s six songs. Our set is now comprised of three new songs, which are an hour total, and then three songs from the album. It’s quite a vivifying ordeal. As for doing an hour set, we just did that recently—I think it was in Finland—and it worked out okay. There’s lots of variation within the tunes so it should be gratifying. Our set, per se, is the same song order but the changes occur within the songs every night. For example, in the live version of the song from the album ‘The

This month Hreyfill Taxi company is supporting breast cancer awareness as well as fund-raising breast cancer screening by The Icelandic Cancer Society

Apostate,’ the whole beginning is completely different now. That just happened one night when we were playing it. I just got sick of playing it the old way and I just started playing this guitar rhythm. The band sort of figured out that I wasn’t going to play the thing we’d worked out and followed along and it became more interesting to me. It seems like something that still requires and expends a lot of energy. What does it take out or put into you? Oh, yes. I would compare it to two very committed lovers in the act of coitus just about to reach orgasm. It’s sort of like that state. It’s like you find yourself and lose yourself at the same time. Do these changes just happen organically? It seems there has to be a really high level of trust between you and the other people onstage in order to have that kind of synchronicity. It’s incredibly organic. They follow and lead simultaneously. But yeah, we’re fairly well psychically connected now, having been touring together for the last couple of years as a group and recording. It’s sort of an all-consuming effort so if we weren’t connected somehow we would be automatons.

SWANS! Thursday, November 1, 23:30, at Harpa Norðurljós

So was there anything in particular that attracted you to coming to play Airwaves? Well, I haven’t been to Iceland since, god… I think the eighties. We played with the Sugarcubes. I didn’t even get a chance to see much, but I enjoyed it. That was at the time that alcohol was banned except for this one drink. I don’t know the name in Icelandic, but they called it ‘Black Death’ [writer’s note: Brennivín]. One couldn’t buy beer, but they could buy that, so all the teenage males would line up on the main avenue there in Reykjavík and throw bottles at each other and start fights [laughs]. It was like a gauntlet if you walked between them. It was really humorous considering it’s such an educated people, you know? That’s one of my main memories. What are you looking forward to about coming back now? Performing, mostly. I think we have a day off, too so I’m hoping to see Ben Frost who’s a really wonderful musician. I heard some of the stuff he did with Brian Eno and it sounded really good. We’ll see if I get out of town. Often times I get agoraphobic and especially when there’s such a beautiful countryside to see. It terrifies me. I’ll likely just stay in my hotel room!

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Breaking Boundaries

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Talking Heads Sóley composes music for “Breaking News,” a play starring puppets By Arit John

Lighting Up Airwaves Marcos Zotes blurs the lines between music, art and architecture By Arit John

f you were in Reykjavík last February during The Festival of Lights, it would have been hard to miss seeing that the city’s tallest landmark, Hallgrímskirkja church, had been transformed into a 74.5 metre tall projection screen. A team of eight—made up of designers, projection artists, architects and one dancer—created a two hour long light installation, illuminating the church with images inspired by the four elements, set to instrumental music composed by For a Minor Reflection. If you saw it, you might be surprised to learn that the project’s driving creative force doesn’t consider himself an artist. Actually, he’s an architect. “People tend to have a very limited understanding of what architecture is because they think that it is just about making buildings,” Marcos Zotes says. “Architecture isn’t just about making buildings; it’s about dealing critically with urban conditions.” Trained as an architect in London and at Columbia University in New York, Marcos runs UNSTABLE, a design and research laboratory for exploring the social and political connections between architecture and urban environments.

His projections deal with communities and issues of public space. While at Columbia he challenged the university’s policies on public space by projecting the message “PUBLIC SPACE? FAILURE. APPROPRIATE! SUBVERT! ACTIVATE!” onto the walls of the school’s main library. In Brooklyn he projected a giant moving eyeball onto a water tower in an abandoned industrial area, creating a “big brother is watching” vibe over the city. “My aim in the video projection field is not to create beautiful lights that people just watch,” Marcos says. “The intention is to send a message or be critical of the space onto which the messages were projected.” With "Rafmögnuð Náttúra," his Hallgrímskirkja installation, the goal was to allow the community to see the church in a new light. “My intention with the church was to activate the space in front of the it and to create this kind of temporary community,” Marcos explains. Back with the band On November 2, Marcos will put on a lights show for the post-punk band For a Minor Reflection’s show at Harpa, Norðurljós Hall. The group hopes to further blur the lines between music, art and architecture by having the projections and music interact. “We are studying the possibility of having the music react to the visuals, which is something that didn’t happen at the church,” Marcos says. The performance will mark a continuation in Marcos’s trend towards experimentation within the projection field. While exploring issues of public space and urban environments are still his main interest, he is also exploring the potential of projection installations to redefine spaces. “Today I’m pursuing different things and this project with For a Minor Reflection is something different,” Marcos says. “I’m starting to go into venues and that’s more about exploring the possibilities of this technology, creating new tools and dealing with the audience in a different way.” Where: Harpa, Norðurljós When: Friday, November 2, 22:30 More info at www.unstablespace.com

elevision. Radio. Newspapers. Computers. People are constantly bombarded with news from every direction, in every form imaginable. Society has developed an addiction to information, and “Breaking News,” a nonverbal play by director Sara Martí Guðmundsdóttir and puppeteer Sigríður Sunna Reynisdóttir, tries to capture that with the help of puppetry. The play is a collaborative effort between Sara, Sigríður, costume and stage designer Eva Signý Berger, light designer Ingi Bekk Einarsson and musician Sóley Stefánsdóttir, who will create the soundscape and music for the play. “The play is about our relationship with news from a personal point of view. We’re not so much talking about what is in the news or how it’s made but how we as human beings have a daily relationship with news. How we consume news, how we can overdose on it,” Sigríður says. “I’ve worked in music as well and I’m always fascinated to explore the relationship between puppetry/visual theatre and live music. So it’s been a real pleasure to work with Sóley in that way,” Sigríður says. “She’s very innovative and constantly brings new ideas to the table.” Sóley, who has a degree in music composition, is creating sound to accompany the puppets’ movements. She’ll be trading in her keyboard for a computer, timing sounds such as alarm clock rings to onstage action. “There are no spoken words in it, so sound plays a big part,” Sóley says. “I think it’s a challenge because it’s not just me playing piano and singing.” Sóley's onstage work will be a mixture of live performances and digitally produced sound art, in which she'll incorporate radio and television news and introductory themes. Despite being out of her element, there is a specific mood Sóley's sound art will try to capture—it’s society’s frantic scramble for information. “Now when I’m listening to the news or reading the newspaper I’m always thinking of the play,” Sóley says. “It’s so funny how we’re all addicted to the news and we really want to hear bad news because that’s something that keeps us going. We’re always like ‘Give us more, give us more.’ It’s that kind of feeling.” Where: The National Theatre of Iceland. When: October 31 and November 1 at 18:00 More info at www.vavavoomtheater.com

Making SolarPowered Music Daníel Bjarnason walks us through the process of making music to Sólaris By Thomas L. Moir

tall and dapper gent strolls into the café. His eyes wander over to me. I stand up and say ‘Daníel?’ His face relaxes. ‘I am sooo sorry,’ he says. He is apologising for being late. I couldn’t care less. I’ve been looking forward to meeting him. He tells me he’s been at home painting his windows in preparation for the incoming winter. “There aren’t many days left,” he advises. The Daníel in question is Daníel Bjarnason: Icelandic classical musician, conductor and member of the highly revered Bedroom Community roster of artists. He is also a co-pilot on ‘Solaris,’ an album inspired by the 1972 Andrei Tarkovsky sci-fi classic of the same name. Together with label-mate Ben Frost, he’s been working on the project for the last two years. “We were thinking about doing a new soundtrack for the film but it just felt not as interesting,” Daníel says. “So we decided early on to do music inspired by the film that would be like a new soundtrack. But it wouldn’t fit on certain scenes.” RE-SCORING A CLASSIC To record ‘Solaris’ the duo sat watching the film and improvised to it. “We had never talked about what we wanted to do. We just met in the studio, we put the film

on, we started playing. And we did that twice,” Daníel recalls of the process. “After that, we never watched the film again.” It wasn’t until six months later that Daníel took the improvisations and transcribed them into sheet music for an orchestra. Two days of workshopping with the Sinfonietta Cracovia followed to flesh out the arrangements proper. “Originally there was also some brass, but they didn’t turn up for rehearsals. So we ended up not using them,” he laughs to himself. “It was a great coincidence. It became this music that was missing a part, but also complete, really sparse.” For Solaris, Daníel fitted a regular piano with screws, wooden pegs and assorted rubber bits, skewing the sound of each note. “It becomes a thing in between playing percussion and playing piano,” he explains. The composer underwent a process of ‘unlearning’ his classical education to play the instrument. “You have to figure out, ok that note sounds like that, that one has that sound, and these ones sound nice together.” As a result, recreating the piece live can make for diverse outcomes. The duo, who will be performing ‘Solaris’ at Iceland Airwaves this month, have been noticing considerable differences between performances. “Everything me and Ben do is improvised within a structure, but inside of that it’s all free,” he says. DISPUTES OVER ART “It was incredibly smooth,” Daníel says of the recording process. “The most complicated part was the artwork for the album”. The contentious cover art in question sees Daníel and Ben recreating a scene from the film, where the protagonist Kelvin is seated on his bed, being caressed by his wife. “It was kind of a joke to begin with,” says Daníel, who plays Kelvin in the image. I confess to Daníel that when I first saw the image I thought, ‘oh someone is re-making Solaris, great. But with a bearded guy playing Kelvin’s wife’. A closer inspection revealed said bearded guy to be Ben Frost. “Yeah, Ben was walking around in a dress for a while, but that didn’t work out too well,” Daníel recalls, reflecting on the photoshoot. “It was terrifying actually” he laughs. “But I think the picture’s good, in a really weird way.”

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All Aboard The Special Rock Bus! A special tour on Iceland’s musical history is on its way to Airwaves!

for Sigur Rós, would bring in four boxes of new records from small, independent UK labels every week. Then there’s the studio for the former Radio X station. When that started in the ‘9 0s, there was no real outlet for playing electronic music on the radio, and this was all pre-internet.” Jón says the size of the city is what makes Iceland’s music scene so unique. “Take a band in London for example. There really isn’t that much of an impulse to just “do” stuff because the size of the place means that it takes hours just to get anywhere. Whereas here you could go “let´s make a band” on Monday, and you’re having your first gig by Friday. It’s the size of the Reykjavík that allows this to happen.” While Iceland’s size allows its music scene to be nimble, it’s a problem when it comes to larger concerts. “Going back before Harpa was built, even before NASA, it’s always been difficult problematic to find a venue for 1,000 people. I remember when the DJ Andy Weatherall came to play, there were 300 people attending, but there could have been so many more,” Jón says. Guðlaugur hopes that with KEX ROCKS, festivalgoers will be able to get a better understanding of what makes the Iceland music scene tick. “We just wanted to do something that would give people a better feel for the place and this tour will ensure that they will be able to see it instead of reading about it in a book.”

By Bob Cluness

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ear Airwaves visitor, chances are you’re going to have several dozen drinks, eat a bunch of hotdogs and possibly take a Golden Circle tour and/or go to the Blue Lagoon party. You may even take a picture of a cat or two. But don’t you want to do something a little bit different from the standard tourist fare? Discover the rich musical history that layers this town like a benevolent ash cloud, perhaps? The people behind the alternative guidebook ‘Reykjavík Rocks’ think you might. This year they’ve teamed up with KEX hostel to create a KEX ROCKS, a tour that aims to shine light on the alternative history of Iceland’s chaotic, fertile music scene. “We wanted to do something more with the ‘Reykjavík Rocks’ concept in line with the Airwaves festival,” says the book’s publisher Guðlaugur Agnar Guðmundsson. “We wanted to create a special spectacle for people coming to Iceland.” The book, which was published last year, details some of the lesser-known history and culture of the city through photos accompanied by words and short passages written by famous Icelandic writers such as Hallgrímur Helgason, Örn Úlfar Sævarsson and Jón Atli Jónasson. And Jón Atli will be narrating the tour, which he co-wrote with famed Icelandic musician and journalist Dr. Gunni. “He’s been heavily into the music scene and has been a part of it for 30 years now,” Jón says. “Together we’re going to make things interesting with the “unofficial” story.” This unofficial story, Jón says, will include places such as famous records stores, concert halls, bars, as well as the locations of seminal moments in the city’s music scene. “For example, there’s Kaffi Hljómalind, which used to be a record store. Kiddi, who used to be the manager

Win A Ticket To The KEX ROCKS Tour!

Twelve Significant Pop Locations In Iceland (In no particular order) By Dr. Gunni

Núlist

Sigur Rós recorded their album ‘Ágætis byrjun’ here. The building has since been demolished.

Hótel Borg

It opened in 1930 and was for decades a main concert and dance venue in Reykjavík. It featured prominently in the 1982 documentary film ‘Rokk í Reykjavík.’

Nasa

It opened in 1946 as Sjálfsstæðishúsið and regularly hosted cabarets and concerts until about 1960. It reopened as Nasa in 2001 and served as a big music venue in Reykjavík until it closed last summer.

Reykjavík Technical College

Jónsi, Georg and Ágúst met in the cantina in 1993 and decided to “try something.”

Austurbær

It opened in 1948 as Austurbæjarbíó and has been home to many great events, including the The Kinks concert in 1965 and Of Monsters and Men winning the battle of the bands contest in 2010!

Sundlaugin (“The Swimming Pool”)

Email editor@grapevine. is with the correct answers and you could win a seat on the tour bus—and possibly a Reykjavík Rocks book, too!

Which year did The Clash play in Iceland? Where on Laugavegur was the record store Þruman located? Who made up the band T-World?

This is Sigur Rós’ studio, which was built in 2001. It used to be an indoor swimming pool, hence the name “The Swimming Pool.”

Duus Hús

This was a legendary small club in the eighties. Bands like HAM and The Sugarcubes played their first gigs here and in 1991 The Sugarcubes played here for the French President François Mitterrand. The house has since been demolished.

Glaumbær

This was a popular club in the sixties. It burned down.

Grammið

The seminal record shop/record company of the ‘Rokk í Reykjavík’ movement—the Icelandic "Rough Trade," if you will.

Hljómalind

This was the main record store during the nineties. The owner, "Kiddi the rabbit," was Sigur Rós’ first manager.

Kaffibarinn

KEX ROCKS will operate four times a day from Kex Hostel on Skúlagata. Tickets and more info can be found at www.facebook. com/ReykjavikRocksIceland, www.facebook/Kexhostel and www.reykjavikrocks.bigcartel.com.

This has long been popular bar in Reykjavík. It was owned by Damon Albarn for a while.

Sirkus

This was the main hangout of the 21st century for cool bands and hipsters. It closed in 2008. capture—

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