Day One of Iceland Airwaves is tomorrow: what to see? Here are some recommendations.
Note: we are conscious that Airwaves is a massive music feast: if you can manage, indulge and overdose on it. We also realize though that time is limited for us mortals. For this reason we decided to spotlight a few bands we like, we are interested in or we feel are noteworthy, for a reason or another. This said, our suggestions are are not necessarily a “best of” Airwaves — though for us they are indeed close to it, to an extent –, so feel free to plan your own festival as you wish.
Sóley
She is best known for her collaboration with the band Seabear, but Sóley is also making a name for herself as a solo artist. Her first full-length album, We Sink, was released in September and we are honestly mesmerized by each and every one of her live performances. Sóley is one of the most remarkable new presences in Icelandic music, so keep an eye and both ears on her! Sóley is playing on the opening night of the festival, but she will also give a few off-venue performances.
Snorri Helgason
After the release of his sophomore album, Winter Sun, we have grown fonder of Snorri’s intimate and placid songwriting style. Snorri’s shows are a unique blend of quiet and powerful moments, wrapped in intense pensive moods.
Sykur
This electro-trio is utterly popular here in Iceland. Sykur are young, juicy and fashionable. If you are in not only for the music per se, but also for the fun of it, then by all means you should go and see them. Sykur will perform at Nasa on Wednesday and Saturday.
Spacevestite
Lots of artists whose names begin with a letter “S”, it seems. Well, as for Spacevestite: these guys might be a pleasant surprise, especially if you are into those captivating retro beats and synth tunes. Spacevestite’s songs are an eclectic concoction of some of the coolest music styles, which the band reinvents and mixes in an irresistible youthful fashion.
Pétur Ben & Eberg
Pétur Ben and Eberg are definitely popular in their native Iceland. Both musicians enjoy a successful solo career; as a duo, they have recently released together the album Numbers Game, that features some very catchy tunes that can stick to your head for days in a row. For Iceland Airwaves they will perform in two different occasions at two different venues, so be sure to check them out if you want your taste of Icelandic best-selling pop.
PÉTUR BEN & EBERG – numbers game
Pornopop
However overlooked, Pornopop’s albums are always well-received, also abroad. The band members take the time to refine their craft, thus Pornopop’s releases are few and far between — but well-worth the wait. Pornopop announced they will be playing five new songs from their upcoming third album Two Lazy Tigers at this year’s Airwaves.
IKEA SATAN
Ikea Satan make loud and groovy rock music. Their Sound Of The Planet EP was a raw gem and the recently released White Cat Blues was also up to expectations. They are labeled as metal, but their influences are much broader than that — and honestly, if you ignore labels, you will appreciate them much more. Anyway, simply put: you gotta listen to them.
Psstt… Looking for the complete program? You will find it here.