Farao, aka Norwegian singer Kari Jahnsen, might well be familiar to keen-eyed followers of Iceland’s music scene. She’s played in Iceland more than most, whether supporting Ásgeir on a sold out Christmas-time tour, performing at Harpa Norðurljós at Airwaves ’14, or warming up for Low Roar at Húrra earlier this year.
The reasons for the repeat visits is that Kari has been recording here for several years, since falling in love with Iceland on her first visit. Speaking to the Grapevine recently, she said of the decision: “People here encourage you to be yourself, and not to copy anyone or whatever – they have confidence in your decisions, your ability to the best way to do things, putting the music first and the industry second. That, for me, is a major reason why Iceland has one of the most exciting music scenes in the world.”
The first recording to emerge from the sessions is ‘Hunter’, an atmospheric, shanty-like ballad that continues to evolve throughout its four and a half minute duration. A debut album will follow later in the year via Arts & Crafts in the US and Full Time Hobby in the UK.
Read a full interview with Farao in our next issue. ‘Hunter’ is available now in the iTunes Store. Here’s some more stuff, if you liked ‘Hunter’.
Buy subscriptions, t-shirts and more from our shop right here!
