Icelandic singer-songwriter Ásgeir has shared the first single & video from his forthcoming new album – premiered with KEXP, “Youth” is a reflection of the artist’s childhood. He also announces his third album Bury The Moon will be released on February 7, 2020, on One Little Indian Records, with a full UK/EU/US tour to coincide.
Ásgeir returns to his Icelandic folk roots for lead single ‘Youth’ – written in collaboration with his admired poet father Einar Georg Einarsson and translated by John Grant, the song documents his childhood growing up in a small Icelandic town, unburdened by worry and full of unbridled joy. The stunning track swells with horns and hushed acoustic guitars, Ásgeir’s unmistakable honey-soaked vocal soaring across weaving instrumental melodies, culminating in an anthemic peak that exudes nostalgia.
The enigmatic artist makes music that penetrates a little deeper than most. His debut album soared to success in his native land, before English language edition In The Silence connected with an entirely new audience. An artist of rare scope, sincerity, and emotion, his next step might well be his bravest, and his most enduring.
The story of Bury The Moon – or Sátt, to give the record its Icelandic title – begins with heartbreak and escape. Ásgeir watched a long-term relationship disintegrate, and decided that he needed to get away, to lose himself in the endless Icelandic countryside. Retreating to a summerhouse – a tiny rural home used by those on the island – he spent the winter writing, just him, his guitar, and those endless reflections on love and loss.
At times, Bury The Moon is a bruising, achingly personal experience, with shades of the endless isolation Ásgeir put himself through in that remote summerhouse. “I took my guitar, a small keyboard, and a very simple recording set up,” he recalls. “And that was it.”
Days, weeks went past, with close friends dropping by to hand over food parcels, and words of encouragement. “I’ve always had this longing to go somewhere on my own,” he says. “I think it was really good to go there and just think about music and have no distractions whatsoever. I went out running in the morning and then I wrote all day”.
Unfurling his new ideas in the studio, he started to gather like-minds, fellow travelers, and guest lyricists to work on his music. Indeed, that’s the way he’s always worked – Ásgeir sculpts the melodies, the arrangements, while the words form this counterbalance, penned by other figures.
Einar Georg Einarsson wrote many of the lyrics for Ásgeir’s extraordinary debut, and this partnership has only strengthened and deepened their father-son relationship. “I think the lyrical side of the album is, at times, a bit more personal for me now, because my Dad and I did it together. We spent a lot of time together”.
In accepting his own imperfections, Ásgeir may well have produced his most remarkable work yet. American songwriter and Reykjavik resident John Grant assisted on translating the lyrics to English, but the voice could only belong to one person. It’s the same voice that drove debut album In The Silence to such astonishing heights. Not that this success phases Ásgeir – his concentration is solely on the craft, on the art, and on his fans.
“I’m looking forward to seeing the reactions, and how it sits with people,” he says. “I wanted to take the project back to its roots, in a way, and make it more about honesty: honest songs with strong melodies and lyrics.”
Stream & Download Youth https://asgeir.lnk.to/Youth
2020 TOUR DATES:
UK
2/7: Manchester, UK @ Gorilla
2/8: Leeds, UK @ Brudenell Social Club
2/9: Glasgow, SCT @ Classic Grand
2/11: Bristol, UK @ SWX
2/12: London, UK @ O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire
EU
2/14: Brussels, BE @ Botanique – Orangerie
2/17: Paris, FR @ Le Trianon
2/18: Rotterdam, NL @ Stadsschouwburg
2/19: Groningen, NL @ Stadsschouwburg
2/20: Amsterdam, NL @ Paradiso
2/22: Malmo, SE @ Babel
2/23: Stockholm, SE @ Vasateatern
2/24: Oslo, NO @ Rockefeller Music Hall
2/26: Copenhagen, DK @ Vega
2/27: Aarhus, DK @ VoxHall
2/28: Hamburg, DE @ Mojo Club
2/29: Berlin, DE @ Passionskirche
US/Canada
3/4: Vancouver, BC @ Imperial Vancouver
3/6: Seattle, WA @ Neptune Theatre
3/7: Portland, OR @ Doug Fir
3/9: San Francisco, CA @ Great American Music Hall
3/10: Los Angeles, CA @ Teragram
3/12: Phoenix, AZ @ Crescent Ballroom
3/14: Santa Fe, NM @ Meow Wolf
3/15: Denver, CO @ Bluebird
3/17: Madison, WI @ Majestic Theatre
3/18: Chicago, IL @ Lincoln Hall
3/20: Nashville, TN @ Exit In
3/21: Durham, NC@ Motorco Music Hall
3/22: Atlanta, GA @ Terminal West
3/24: Washington, DC @ Union Stage
3/25: Philadelphia, PA @ Underground Arts
3/27: Brooklyn, NY @ Warsaw
3/28: Portland, ME @ Port City Music Hall
3/30: Quebec, QC @ Le D’Auteuil
3/31: Montreal, QC @ L’Astral
PRAISE FOR ‘AFTERGLOWW’
“Mix of organic instrumentation, lilting electronics, and Ásgeir’s otherworldly voice hits a sweet spot between emotion and mystique.” – NPR
“Gleaming piece of electro-pop, R&B-smooth keys creating a reflective pool off which Ásgeir’s shimmering vocals bounce.” – Consequence of Sound
“Wonderful moments such as the chaotic creativity of ‘Here Comes The Wave In,’ the bold ballad ‘New Day’ and the elegiac ‘Hold.’” – Uncut
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
For more information:
Shannon Cosgrove, shannon@girlieaction.com, (917) 470-9713
Mia Berrin, mia@girlieaction.com, (917) 470-9420
Photo Credit: Anna Maggý
image sources
- chitaliving: CHITA LIVING’s New Sofa Collection Brings Comfort and Style to Every Home
- Ella-Rosa’s-New-Single-FUN: Artwork by Hannah DeVries
- Amelie Lens: Photo Credit: Sam Neill
About the author
Things any business should know about the importance of team building
There are many different factors to consider for those who wish to manage a successful business. Quite often it can be what works best as rarely are two organisations identical. Having a strong infrastructure is certainly necessary which will include the best management of the finances, whether done by an in-house team or if bookkeeping and accountancy are outsourced. Expert departments with skills in digital marketing can give a business a cutting edge over its competitors if carried out correctly and in a cost-effective manner. Being in an ideal location can create the right impression when trying to attract customers and instill confidence in clients that the business is serious about its image and intends to take advantage of it. Then of course, its recruitment is vital as employees are the ones who can make all the difference, especially if […]
Melissa Furlotte Landscape Press Photo by Scratch Takes Productions / Editing by Sarah Thompson
Meet Melissa Furlotte
With roots in the enchanting landscapes of Gaspésie, her journey from piano lessons to creating soulful tunes is a testament to the power of following your passions. As you examine into her story, you'll find inspiration in her unique blend of fine folk music that captures the essence of her experiences. Get ready to be captivated by her artistry and the exciting projects she has in store for you! Early life and musical influences There's something magical about growing up in the picturesque region of Gaspésie. In her childhood town of Murdochville, Quebec, Melissa Furlotte found her musical footing playing piano and singing, captivated by a rich tapestry of popular, folk, country, and jazz music that shaped her early artistic identity. The landscapes and stories of her youth continue to inspire her as a songwriter today. Education and transition to […]
Kat Velasco Shares Fiery New Single “Burning Man”
Nashville-based Western pop artist Kat Velasco has released her powerful new single, “Burning Man,” a song that digs deep into themes of transformation, personal growth, and resilience. Inspired by the famed festival of the same name, Velasco’s latest track is a bold artistic evolution, fusing raw emotional energy with her signature mix of country and pop. “Burning Man” is now available on all streaming platforms. Produced in Nashville by Danny Zee and Cooper Galyon at Broken Door Studios, the song is as much a personal reflection as it is an anthem for anyone who has faced hardship and emerged stronger. The track is built around the metaphor of “burning” one’s past self to make way for new growth—a theme echoed in the radical self-expression of the Burning Man festival. Velasco opens up about the personal struggles and triumphs that inspired […]
Investment Property Insurance 101: The Coverage Options Every Real Estate Investor Should Know
Although real estate is a wise investment, it is also risky. Unexpected events can cause significant financial losses in any kind of natural disaster, accident, or tenant conflict. Investment property insurance then becomes really important. Protecting assets and long-term profitability depends on investors having appropriate insurance coverage. This article will break down the basics of investment property insurance, the different types of coverage, and why each is a must-have for new and experienced investors. Knowing these options will help you between a minor setback and a financial disaster. Why Investment Property Insurance Matters? Having investment properties is different from having a primary residence. When tenants occupy a property, the risk of damage, liability, and legal issues increases. Without enough insurance, landlords can incur big fees that eat into their profits or, in extreme cases, go bankrupt. According to an Insurance […]
Ian Abel Band’s “Stay Here” Explores Heartache and Hope
Ian Abel Band, led by internationally recognized guitarist Ian Abel, is making waves again with their newest single, "Stay Here," a bilingual Southern rock track that seamlessly weaves English and Portuguese lyrics. With a unique blend of classic rock’s raw power and Americana’s soulful storytelling, "Stay Here" captures the bittersweet emotions of love and loss. Inspired by Abel’s short but meaningful romance with a Brazilian woman, the song speaks to the longing that comes from separation. The heartfelt line, “Coitadinho de mim, afogando a saudade,” which translates to "poor me, I'm drowning in the sorrow of missing you," encapsulates the song's emotional core. This poignant reflection is matched by the song’s samba-infused melodies, giving "Stay Here" a cross-cultural flavor that sets it apart in the rock genre. Reflecting on the song’s origins, Abel shares, "It started out with a short […]
Comfort Meets Style: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Guest Room Beds
With a wide array of options ranging from sofa beds and day beds to futons and murphy beds, each style offers unique benefits tailored to your space and guest needs. In this guide, you'll discover how to blend comfort and style, ensuring your guests enjoy a restful night while complementing your home's aesthetic. Let's explore the best choices for your guest room, so you can make informed decisions that enhance the overall ambiance. Key Takeaways: Space Efficiency: Consider beds that maximize space, like Murphy Beds or Fold-Out Beds, to create a functional guest room. Versatility: Opt for options like Sofa Beds and Futons that can serve multiple purposes, enhancing both comfort and style. Comfort Levels: Prioritize comfort with choices such as Air Mattresses and Day Beds that cater to different sleeping preferences. Understanding Guest Room Needs For creating a welcoming […]
Related
Kat Velasco Shares Fiery New Single “Burning Man”
Nashville-based Western pop artist Kat Velasco has released her powerful new single, “Burning Man,” a song that digs deep into themes of transformation, personal growth, and resilience. Inspired by the famed festival of the same name, Velasco’s latest track is a bold artistic evolution, fusing raw emotional energy with her signature mix of country and pop. “Burning Man” is now available on all streaming platforms. Produced in Nashville by Danny Zee and Cooper Galyon at Broken Door Studios, the song is as much a personal reflection as it is an anthem for anyone who has faced hardship and emerged stronger. The track is built around the metaphor of “burning” one’s past self to make way for new growth—a theme echoed in the radical self-expression of the Burning Man festival. Velasco opens up about the personal struggles and triumphs that inspired […]
Ian Abel Band’s “Stay Here” Explores Heartache and Hope
Ian Abel Band, led by internationally recognized guitarist Ian Abel, is making waves again with their newest single, "Stay Here," a bilingual Southern rock track that seamlessly weaves English and Portuguese lyrics. With a unique blend of classic rock’s raw power and Americana’s soulful storytelling, "Stay Here" captures the bittersweet emotions of love and loss. Inspired by Abel’s short but meaningful romance with a Brazilian woman, the song speaks to the longing that comes from separation. The heartfelt line, “Coitadinho de mim, afogando a saudade,” which translates to "poor me, I'm drowning in the sorrow of missing you," encapsulates the song's emotional core. This poignant reflection is matched by the song’s samba-infused melodies, giving "Stay Here" a cross-cultural flavor that sets it apart in the rock genre. Reflecting on the song’s origins, Abel shares, "It started out with a short […]
Olivia Reid Shares Intimate New Single “Love Don’t Leave”
New York-based indie-folk artist Olivia Reid is back with her latest single titled “Love Don’t Leave.” The track is a heartfelt love letter that conveys a simple and reassuring message that she will always be there to support her loved one through thick and thin. Featuring warm acoustic guitar strumming and crooning soft vocals, the song creates an intimate environment that is perfect for all your sweet and calming playlists. Olivia Reid drew inspiration for this single from her travels while visiting a small village in the Polish countryside. After completing the song, Olivia Reid played it for the local neighbors around a campfire. Despite the language barrier, the song resonated with the people who expressed how much they enjoyed listening to her song. “This song is a love letter to love. Thinking about my person - I was realizing […]
Pete Birch’s Heartfelt Debut Single Door 10 Captures the Essence of Indie Dream Pop
As you listen, you'll find yourself wrapped in layers of emotion that reflect Birch's personal journey and the bittersweet moments of life. His unique blend of nostalgia and modern sound will resonate with your heart, making this track a must-listen for any music lover. So, sit back and let "Door 10" transport you to a dreamlike state, where beauty and melancholy coexist harmoniously. Transition from NYC to Massachusetts On his journey, Pete Birch made a significant transition from the vibrant music scene of New York City to a quieter, more reflective life in Massachusetts. This move allowed him to focus on his family and personal growth while embracing a new chapter as a Park Ranger. You might find this shift relatable, as it reflects the balance between pursuing passions and finding inner peace, a theme evident in his music. Impact […]
Myriad’s Veil unveils debut single The Darkness
Myriad’s Veil is a musical project formed by Temple Fang guitarist Ivy van der Veer and singer-songwriter Ismena. With their musical journey starting in marriage, they found a way to balance and unite their own separate styles to create something new. The result is a debut album which mixes Folk with Psychedelic elements This Psychedelic Folk project combines their individual styles into a refreshing sound that blends the realms of Folk and Psychedelic elements. Get ready to explore the depths of their artistry as they lead you through themes of love, happiness, and the complexities of estrangement in their upcoming album, “Pendant.” Background on the artists On a journey that began with their marriage, you'll find that the artists behind Myriad's Veil have seamlessly woven their distinct musical styles into a cohesive tapestry. Their collaborative spirit shines through in their […]
Photo Credit: Niclas Brunzell
Timeless Trio VELVET MOON Unveils ‘A Love Song’
With 15 million streams and a loyal fan base, this Stockholm trio is known for blending personal experiences with broader themes in their lyrics. Led by the talented Sandra Bjurman, their sound incorporates influences from legendary artists like Fleetwood Mac and Joni Mitchell, inviting you into a vibrant musical journey that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Overview of 'A Love Song' Release Release of 'A Love Song' marks another exciting chapter for VELVET MOON as they unveil their latest single in 2024. Following their previous captivating hits, this track premiered on Metal Magazine and continues to build anticipation for their upcoming album in 2025. As part of their evolving musical identity, 'A Love Song' encapsulates the energetic yet melancholic essence of 80s dance music, inviting you to feel the vibrant emotions woven throughout the song. The song was crafted […]
