There must be something in the water in Iceland. The small nation is prolific at turning out immensely talented artists. Our find to start the week is Kick The Ladder, the debut solo album from Icelandic composer and songwriter Kaktus Einarsson.
Not yet 30, Einarsson’s life in music is remarkable. Born and raised in Reykjavík, he played with experimental electronic act Ghostigital at the tender age of ten. Frontman of post-punk outfit Fufanu, he opened hometown shows for Radiohead and Red Hot Chilli Peppers. The band also supported Blur in Hyde Park and stormed the festival circuit, appearing at the likes of Primavera Sound.
Expansive
Kick The Ladder marks the beginning a new chapter for Kaktus Einarsson. It’s the culmination of his experience in contemporary classical and pop music and bridges the two to great effect. This time out, Einarsson called on Swiss electronic composer Kurt Uenala to help with production duties. Uenala, aka Null & Void, has worked with Depeche Mode, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, The Kills, Dave Gahan/Soulsavers and Moby. The result is a profound, melodic record with an expansive and innovative sound.
The album draws heavily on how we relate to our surroundings. “Every song on this album is a love letter to my environment and my surroundings,” said Kaktus. “Some of the songs are a dialogue between two people, others might be written to nature and what is happening to our planet.”
Optimistic Dreams
Hypnotized is inspired by the recent deportation of immigrants and their children from Iceland, some of whom lived there all their lives. Story of Charms is an appreciation for nature, Daydream Echo builds on the words of an NYC street preacher and Ocean’s Heart is about optimistic dreams. Check out Ocean’s Heart below.
Kick The Ladder by Kaktus Einarsson is out now on One Little Independent.
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