Ever wondered what it looks like inside Björk’s mind? How about inside her mouth? Björk Digital, a virtual reality-infused exhibition, opened on September 1 in London’s famous Somerset House. The exhibition welcomes viewers (or, perhaps more aptly, participants) with panoramic experiences into four of her tracks, including “Mouth Mantra,” in which viewers are plunged into Björk’s mouth while her tongue and teeth twist to the music. The exhibition also includes original never-before-seen works, an interactive educational room, and an extensive collection of music videos. The exhibit closes October 23.
In the press release for Björk Digital, the artist praises technology for “allowing women to work outside of the already formed hierarchical systems.” Jófríður and Áshildur Ákasdóttir are putting those words into action, and into music. The sisters released their third album as Pascal Pinon on August 19. The album is titled ‘Sundur’ (meaning “Apart”), and reflects on the borderless forum within which the twins collaborated to create the album. With Ástuhiludur in Amsterdam and Jófríður touring with her other band Samaris, the two communicated and collaborated from afar, then recorded the album over the course of a day and a half together.
Check out their ‘Track By Track’ breakdown here.
Newcomer Soffía Björg released a single, “I Lie,” off her forthcoming debut album. She enters the Icelandic music scene through the folk-rock door, emphasis on the rock. Her song dashes between catchy and punchy and creates an unexpected texture. The single is accompanied by a stage-set black-and-white music video in homage to The Beatles’ first appearance on the Ed Sullivan show. A timeless choice for a brand new artist.
Popular Vice affiliate i-D is “taking over” the Silfurberg stage at Harpa at this year’s Iceland Airwaves. The magazine-cum-website, which has a strong footing in global fashion, music and culture, recently released an article and video on the Icelandic hip-hop scene (aka the Grapevine-dubbed NWOIHH). “Last year we took grime to Iceland, this year we’re celebrating women in music,” boasts the subheadline on i-D’s website. Their stage packs an impressive female punch, with co-headliners Santigold and Warpaint, along with all-female rap group Reykjavíkurdætur and many more local acts.
If you are looking for a stage of your own at Iceland Airwaves this year, The Nordic House (Norræna Húsið) is accepting applications to use their facility as one of the official off-venue sites during the Festival. The call is open to all artists, but special attention is given to artists in Nordic or Baltic nations, or who are of Nordic descent living abroad. Applications close on September 18!
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