Echoing a wealth of influences and flavouring, Icelandic experimental outfit virgin orchestra champions an exquisitely dreamy and ethereal aesthetic. Post-punk, shoegaze and new-wave references enhance the groundbreaking energy contained in their artistic output. The Reykjavik residents are one of those bands that are hard to describe: instead, their music needs to be experienced on a deeper level. It is material that creates a gooey sonic universe, a safe place where the listener can find refuge, while going through the myriads of emotions virgin orchestra is able to manifest.
For instance, when approaching their latest effort ‘rewind’ – their best record yet, we believe – nostalgia is what got pumped through our veins. We had to stop writing, and just fully be present, capturing and experiencing the dopamine rush suddenly transporting us in the Nordics, remembering the icy, austere streets of the Icelandic capital, or the immensity of Norway’s northernmost forests. Sonically, ‘rewind’ sets the tone with retrowave guitars and sparse drum machines, offering the perfect contour for virgin orchestra’s evocative and astral vocals.
Before you know it, the track descends into more experimental territories, taking you through shoegaze-inspired soundscapes and ambient energy. A collaboration of three unique musicians – Stefanía Pálsdóttir, Starri Holm, and Rún Árnadóttir – virgin orchestra are proud of their individual styles as they are of their eclectic personalities. Yet, they share a collaborative artistic vision, combining post-punk with electronic, dreampop, and noise in order to create something truly special.
Recommended! Discover ‘rewind’ on Spotify:
