Must-See Local Artists at Secret Solstice 2019

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Experience Secret Solstice like a local. These are the must-see Icelandic acts at Secret Solstice 2019!

Now in its sixth year, Secret Solstice returns to Laugardalur, Reykjavik, Iceland this June 21-23, 2019. The world-renowned Midnight Sun Festival is pulling out all the stops to maintain its reputation as the most unique music festival in the world. In keeping with the festival’s spirit of representation and inclusion, this year’s lineup is no exception, showcasing diversity across multiple genres.

Headliners Kerri Chandler, Martin Garrix, Patti Smith, Sugar Hill Gang, Black Eyed Peas, Hatari, Morcheeba, Pussy Riot, MK, Foreign Beggars, Rita Ora offer a solid balance of headline acts. Last year, techno Belgian phenom Charlotte de Witte made her Icelandic debut and wowed festival goers by delivering a stellar set.

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Now that we’ve covered the international heavyweights, let’s focus on the impressive roster of Icelandic acts appearing on this year’s lineup. And, who better to give you the lowdown than a local. So, whether you’re attending Secret Solstice for the first time or you’re a seasoned veteran, check out the notable Icelandic acts of Secret Solstice 2019.

Icelandic hip-hop rules Secret Solstice 2019

Without a doubt, Icelandic hip-hop has experienced a surge in the past couple of years. Nowadays, from small children to young adults are seen rapping along to songs by Jói Pé & Króli and Birnir. Comparable to the early days of Icelandic hip-hop; up and upcoming artists along with other big-name rappers today, are reaping more commercial success thanks to social media. They appeal to a wider audience. With that said, one should definitely expect a massive crowd of Icelanders gathering around the stage when these local hip-hop acts perform. And, don’t be surprised if they know all the lyrics to the songs.

Photo by Birta Rán Björgvinsdóttir

Must-see Icelandic acts at Secret Solstice 2019

In no particular order:

1. JóiPé og Króli

JóiPé x Króli – Í Átt Að Tunglinu ft. Djúsí Döðlur (Official Music Video)

2. Birnir

BIRNIR – Já ég veit ft. Herra Hnetusmjör
Birnir : Afhverju (Live)

3. Sprite Zero Klan

Sprite Zero Klan – Þetta Er Rán (ft. Króli)

4. Birgir Hákon

Birgir Hákon – Pening á heilanum

5. Logi Pedro

Logi Pedro – Dúfan mín

6. Þorri

Þorri – Tala ekki við

Discovering new sound.

Now that you’ve had your fill of Icelandic hip-hop, how about we dive into other genres. Since 2014, Secret Solstice has attracted a multi-genre lineup consisting of accomplished and up and coming acts, both foreign and local. Over the years, in preparation for the festival, I like to examine the lineup and discover newcomers or artists whose music I’m unfamiliar with.

So far this year, my favorite find has to be Icelandic artist Ari Árelíus. “He draws from a background of jazz and rock, his ability to mix together a variety of influences to fuse a remedy of his own.” And the outcome? Unquestionably, feel-good music. But don’t take my word for it, check out his song “Wake up your mind” to see exactly what I’m referring to.

If you’re going for the feels, got that covered too…

  1. Árstíðir – Things You Said
  2. Einar Indra – Sometimes I’m Wrong
  3. ASA & Magnús Þór – Walking in the Rain
  4. Bríet – DINO
  5. Högni – Paradísarmissir
  6. Grúska Babúska – Raddataktur
  7. The One – Una Stef
  8. Vök – Erase You
  9. Warmland – Overboard
  10. Svala – Trinity + Reykjavíkurdætur feat Svala

Hopefully, in some small way, I’ve done my job and you’ve achieved the ultimate goal of all this: discovering something new to love!

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