Announcing a Playlist update: Iceland Music ETHEREAL

One of our most beloved playlists just got an update in honour of the Iceland Airwaves showcase at SXSW. Atmospheric no more, find Iceland Music ETHEREAL on the playlist service of your choice.

Iceland Music invites you into this world of soundscapes that are unlike any other, by listening to Vök, Eydís Evensen, LÓN, and Arny Margret in their playlist “Iceland Music Ethereal” along with other iconic recordings any music-lover would already be familiar with.  Find the three who performed at SXSW 10 years ago Ólafur Arnalds, Sóley, Ásgeir, along with other iconic recordings any music lover already knows and loves: Sigur Rós, Björk, Kaleo, Of Monsters and Men, and many many more.

Icelandic artists are renowned the world over for breaking the mold. Björk is cited as an influence from anyone like Elton John or Thome Yorke to Travis Scott and SZA. She’s noted for creating innovative soundscapes which altered the sound of pop-music. Speaking of creating worlds international audiences get lost in, Sigur Rós’ film Heima has to be partially responsible for putting Iceland on the map as one of the most thrilling tourist destinations in recent years. So many people who fall in love with Iceland, started by falling in love with Icelandic Music. And on the shoulders of these giants stand other musical trailblazers in the world of film-composing. Between the late Jóhann Jóhannsson and Hildur Guðnadóttir, Iceland hasn’t seen such a stream of Oscars, Grammys, and other awards ever.

Few have done more for the next generation of artists than Iceland Airwaves which has again and again programmed the best new talent who have been able to use the platform as a springboard to a flourishing career in music. The 2013 Iceland Airwaves SXSW showcase is a perfect snapshot of the quality of their curation where Ólafur Arnalds, Sóley and Ásgeir played – all artists who are not just notable for the quality of their music but creating world of intrigue and magical wonder that captivates international audiences. 

Here is the full schedule with Icelandic artists at SXSW, which also include performances from Lord Pusswhip, GusGus, and Dream Wife (Rakel Mjöll is from Iceland!). Find interactive here >>

And if you’d like to see more live music in the US beyond SXSW visit “Iceland Music LIVE”, our event discovery tool. Notable 2023 shows include Björk at Coachella, and US tours with celebrated pianist Víkingur Ólafsson and dark-wave darlings Kælan Mikla who were recently announced as the support act for HIM’s Ville Valo.