Keli unveils the mesmerizing track “Gufunes” featuring EstHer, a sonic journey that pays tribute to the cold and harsh Icelandic nature through a blend of atmospheric vibes, organic rhythms, and innovative instrumentation. The track introduces listeners to the proto-langspil, a technologically augmented version of the traditional Icelandic trichord, creating an immersive sound that is both organic and rhythmic.
The debut release from an album featuring various artists utilizing the proto-langspil, “Gufunes” is a collaborative effort by Keli (Hrafnkell Örn Guðjónsson) and Esther Þorvaldsdóttir. Keli, a well-regarded drummer with a notable presence in Icelandic and international music scenes, has diverse collaborations, including his work with Agent Fresco. Esther, a member of the Intelligent Instruments Lab and Læti! / Girls Rock! Iceland, brings a decade’s worth of experience in music and culture management.
Named after the couple’s home, Gufunes, the track mirrors the location’s history of transformation. Once a settlement, Gufunes evolved from a waste disposal site to a hub for creative industries and residential development. This metamorphosis parallels the journey of the langspil, transforming from a traditional Icelandic instrument to a futuristic experiment in sound manipulation with embedded algorithms.
“Gufunes” derives its uniqueness from the proto-langspil’s embedded computer, introducing an unpredictable element to the music. The instrument’s strings, manipulated by feedback algorithms, create a captivating and unorthodox sonic experience. The duo’s creative process reflects this unpredictability, marked by spontaneity and experimentation.
Keli and Esther embraced the proto-langspil’s unpredictable nature during the recording, manipulation, and editing process. Keli uses a violin bow to generate rhythmic patterns on the langspil’s strings, while Esther modulates pitch and rhythm in real time by adjusting the string’s suspension. This collaborative interaction between artists and instrument encapsulates the essence of “Gufunes.”
The track not only pays homage to Icelandic nature but also involves the Gufunes community in its release process. Artist Glytta Hafbur contributes the single artwork, featuring a photo of the old harbor, showcasing the keen eye for beauty in the Gufunes neighborhood.
