Harping on at Harpa

By Thomas L. Moir

This evening will see Steindór Andersen and Hilmar Örn reunite to perform together for the first time in over ten years.

They will be performing in collaboration with a one-of-a-kind stone harp specially brought in for the performance.

This is the first time the two have appeared together since collaborating with Sigur Rós for the Oðin’s Raven Magic project in 2002.

Steindór will provide the music for the performance, while Hilmar sings in ‘stemma’: a style of chanting unique to Iceland which dates back to Viking times.

Hilmar, also the head of Ásatrúarfélagið in Iceland which plays heavily into his performances, is one of Iceland’s most prominent cinematic composers, having worked several times with Sigur Rós.

Steindór and Hilmar will be showcasing material from their upcoming album ‘Stafn Bui’, which will released in conjunction with 12 Tónar. The album will be accompanied by an 80-page booklet of lyrics to the Icelandic hymns and chants.

For a truly unique Airwaves experience, get along to Harpa at 17.00 tonight!