Grapevine Playlist: Sturla Atlas, Kiriyama Family, Mio Dior, Arstaðir & More

As new tracks continue to surface like a pod of spectacularly breaching fin whales, here are the latest tracks from the cold, dark depths of the Icelandic music scene.

Snorri Hallgrímsson – Still Life
Not to be confused with folkie crooner Snorri Helgason, Snorri Hallgrímsson’s “No Tomorrow” is a moody and affecting ambient wash. The video is equally evocative, featuring shaky hand-held video footage. Fans of Sigur Rós might enjoy this one. The album, ‘Orbit,’ will follow on June 15th. JR

Sturla Atlas ft. Logi Pedro – No Tomorrow
No tomorrow is a collaboration between the hip-hop darlings of Iceland, Sturla Atlas and Logi Pedro. The song is a smooth R’n’B love song where the boys fantasise about a world with no tomorrow. I guess the apocalypse can be romantic in a way if you can’t wait to get into bed with your new girlfriend. But the song is short. Like its future, I assume. VG

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UTmaXWndvxE

Sveimur – Dáinn
“Dáinn” is a lo-fi journey with Sigur Rós-like vocals that floats through your ears like a sailing boat on a calm sea. There are absolutely no surprises in this song which makes it pleasant to listen to whatever you might be doing. There are, however, lots of cute high-pitched synth-sounds. Could this be the new wave of Icelandic krútt? PW

Kiriyama Family – Innocence (RMX)
Kiriyama Family is well known for pure amped-up grooviness. Here, their most famous and soulful track ‘Innocence’ is given an EDM makeover by Milwaukee producer Charley Cooks. It’s a surprisingly fitting collaboration—perfect for the dance floor or the gym floor. Get your blood flowing. HJC

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=guPhy8Ur7z0&t=181s

Mio Dior – Þú og Ég
Mio Dior’s solo debut is finally here. “Þú og Ég” is a rollercoaster of emotions, with its haunting vocals, and its mantra-like bassline. Accompanied by a dramatic story in the stunning music video, Þú og Ég is a breath of fresh air and we can’t wait to see and hear what’s next from Mio Dior. We’re waiting and we’re ready. JW

Árstíðir – Entangled
The second song from Árstíðir’s fifth studio album spoils the listener with a stellar production, poppy guitar picking, smooth percussion and beautiful vocal harmonies. This is catchy, soft and easy to listen to. Perfect for a slow Sunday morning. Their new album, “Nivalis”, will be out on June 22nd. PW

Read more about Icelandic music here.