About

Sigmar Matthiasson – Release Concert (IS)
Harpa, Norðurljós
Saturday August 31st 
21:00 

In 2021, the album “Meridian Metaphor” was released by bassist and composer Sigmar Matthiasson. The album introduced a new tone in Matthiasson’s compositions, blending contemporary jazz with influences from eastern world music in an intriguing way. Therefore, the music reflects influences from both the East and the West, as Sigmar presents a kind of tonal symbolism with diverse references to people, places, and experiences that have shaped him over time.

The album received tremendous acclaim both domestically and internationally, including a 5-star review and coverage in Morgunblaðið, as well as a feature in the esteemed British music magazine The Wire. For the album, Sigmar and the band received four nominations for the Icelandic Music Awards in 2022 and won one award – Performer of the Year (group) in the Jazz & Blues category.

Now, in the pipeline, is a new album called UNEVEN EQUATOR, which is somewhat of a thematic continuation of “Meridian Metaphor”, yet independently distinct, where vocals and string instruments are added to expand the sonic landscape. The album was recorded last March and April and is expected to be released in late August 2024, in conjunction with the Reykjavik Jazz Festival, making this an album release concert.

The band consists of:
Ásgeir Ásgeirsson – oud
Haukur Gröndal – clarinet
Ingi Bjarni Skúlason – piano
Magnús Trygvason Eliassen – drums
Sigmar Þór Matthíasson – double bass and compositions

Special guests:

Ragnheiður Gröndal – vocals

LÝRA String Quartet
Sigrún Harðardóttir – violin
Sigrún Kristbjörg Jónsdóttir – violin
Karl James Pestka – viola
Unnur Jónsdóttir – cello