Ása Dyradóttir is a musician who just moved from Reykjavík to London. Her band MAMMÚT are currently preparing to release their fourth LP, ‘Kinder Versions’, on June 23. “I’m currently in Reykjavik for a week before a US tour,” said Ása, “then we’ve a UK & Europe tour in May, and some summer festivals. I’m also working on recordings at Cable Studios in London, for MAMMÚT, and solo experimentation.”
Favourite breakfast place
I usually have breakfast at home, or not at all, but since my apartment is on Baldursgata, I go to Brauð & Co. when I wanna feel like a luxurious morning king. They open super early, so it’s great to go when the town is still asleep. Their bread is so fucking good it makes me want to cry. I’ve actually cried while eating it. That Danish wheat…
First thing in the morning
I’m an early bird that doesn’t have to be—I don’t have children or a regular “job,” so I have time to myself in the morning. It makes me feel spoiled, and it’s my favourite part of the day. I make coffee, exercise, plan my week, go over ideas, read, and feel like a privileged asshole. If I have a day off it’s nice to go swimming at Vesturbæjarlaug or Sundhöllin. It’s best to go at 9am on weekdays, because people who have normal jobs are gone, and the school kids aren’t there yet so you have a chance for solitude.
For lunch
I used to live on Grandi, and it became my favourite area in Reykjavík. I loved going to Kaffivagninn, the most honest cafe in town. It’s filled with sailors, locals, and occasional travellers. The big windows look over the harbour, and the vibe there is soft and nice and everything smells like pancakes and fish. The menu has slim pickings for vegetarians and vegans, but ask what they have that day and they’ll make something nice.
Around midday
If the weather is still, and your mindset therefore good, take a seaside walk with a lover or a friend and talk about art and science and life and stuff. If the weather is super still, and the mentality super good, drive out of town for a walk. The best game in life is to walk aimlessly and be an exploring observer.
In the afternoon
My perfect afternoon would be spent playing, rehearsing and recording with my band. Even though we just finished a heavy album that took its toll, and should be fed up with each other. I feel honoured to have the opportunity to create music and art with people I respect and consider family, and to travel the world with them. When you grow older in this music business, you realise that’s hardly ever the case.
For dinner
The fact that Reykjavik still hasn’t got a decent veggie phở gives me an excuse to almost only eat pizza when dining out. I’m a margarita pervert. Hverfisgata 12 is my favourite. If I’m feeling too fat for a pizza, I love having some curry at Ban Thai, or a veggie soup at Noodle Station. All of the above is heavenly.
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