Festivities officially kicked off in Reykjavík last night at Iceland Airwaves as venues around the city packed out with music lovers from around the world eager to capture a glimpse of the best musicians from across the globe. Last night, we were lucky enough to catch the action at Reykjavík Art Museum, where Canadian country crooner Orville Peck left the room in awe and local Icelandic band Kælan Mikla put on a hypnotic performance.
ORVILLE PECK:
With his signature mask in tow, Canadian country artist Orville Peck made the room feel like they were in a desert in Nevada with his memorable and absorbing set. Accompanied by his four-piece band, he opened his show with the ever-so-soaring 'Big Sky', showcasing his vast and impressive vocal range. Early on was also met by 'Queen of the Rodeo', with Orville Peck noting that he wrote the song for a drag queen, also declaring drag as the "last subversive art form". Though his entire set was a feast of chills and goosebumps, the most spine-tingling moment of the night was his heartfelt performance of 'Nothing Fades Like the Light'. Orville Peck is an artist who only comes around once in a lifetime, and there’s no denying his magic.
Next year, Australians will be treated to an unforgettable performance when he tours our shores in January. You can catch him and his band at the below shows:
January 10th - Sydney Festival
January 14th - The Foundry, Fortitude Valley
January 16th - Corner Hotel, Melbourne
January 18th - Moma Foma, Launceston
More information is available here
KÆLAN MIKLA:
Icelandic post-punk warriors Kælan Mikla were the opening act of Reykjavík Art Museum last night and they absolutely delivered. If you’re a fan of Drab Majesty, Kælan Mikla is exactly what you need in your life. Adorning the stage with incense at the beginning of the show set the scene for their performance. The mix of their entrancing synths with Laufey Soffia's piercing vocals was an enticing combination. Their entire show was a highlight in itself, but it was their performances of 'Kalt' and 'Sýnir' that especially impressed. Having already toured America and currently on a European tour, huge things are coming their way.
Written by Amy Smolcic (@amysmolcic)
Photos by Kristy Smolcic (folio)
