Ylja (Iceland)

Guðný Gígja Skjaldardóttir and Bjartey Sveinsdóttir met in a high school choir and went on to form Ylja, one of Iceland’s most recognized and acclaimed musical duos. Since 2008, Ylja has built a repertoire rooted in local traditions, working closely with folklorists, producers and many of Iceland’s top musicians to create compelling songs that draw on global folk and indie music while remaining distinctively Icelandic. Their three albums and numerous performances at home and abroad have earned them multiple nominations at the Icelandic Music Awards and recognition for their intimate and atmospheric acoustic arrangements.

Featured Song:

“Hafsson” (Son of the Sea) draws on Iceland’s rich maritime and literary heritage to tell the story of a fisherman navigating darkness, harsh weather and the pull of the open ocean. “By the beautiful birdsong / In the snow-white cauldron’s side / The night was long enough / And the nearby sea awaits / In wind and rain he rows / Raising his voice / His heartbeat now strikes faster / And the ocean current gives strength.” Ylja’s powerful yet subdued rendition captures the steady motion of the sea and the quiet resolve of the sailor at its center.

Artist Website

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