A few weeks ago, we introduced you to Hrím, an up and coming experimental trio consisting of Icelandic folk singer Ösp, Japanese-Egyptian modular synthesist and coder Cherif and singer and producer Anil Sebastian, who is also the co-founder and director of London Contemporary Voices choir amongst others. Their majestic and intense debut single, “Ástarnetið”, was a mantra of magical force, a captivating promise of so many good things to come.

Today, we’re quite excited to premiere their sophomore single, “Come Lay Low”, an architectural piece of Nordic experimental pop which is sung for the first time in English. Like with the previous single, the wild, indomitable spirit of Iceland is palpable in every corner, from the trippy and epic rhythmic structure to the mystical vocal layers. According to the band, “Come Lay Low” is a love song of longing and lust. Recalling the dangerous songs of the mermaids and inviting the listener to run into the dark and the unknown, “Come Lay Low” is a double-edged track that sounds both bewitching and incisive. Listen below.

Hrím is a new trio comprising Icelandic folk singer Ösp, Japanese-Egyptian modular synthesist and coder Cherif and singer and producer Anil Sebastian. In Icelandic, Hrím is hoarfrost or rime. In Hindi, Hrím is a mantra of magical force, captivation and empowerment. Knowing all of that, we can affirm that their moniker was undoubtedly a good pick to describe their music

Together, they craft songs, or shall we call them atmospheres, that recall Sigúr Ros, Olafúr Arnalds and the breathtaking landscapes of the island of ice and fire. Intense and haunting, their debut offering, “Ástarnetið”, is almost like a surreal experience, combining organic electronic arrangements with neo-classical and neo-choral influences. There is no hazard: Sebastian is actually one of the co-founders and directors of the London Contemporary Voices choir. Ösp‘s voice is utterly amazing and idiosyncratically Nordic. It is cold and shattering. It evokes the aurora borealis, the geysers and the vulcanos, oscillating between strength, majestic beauty and vulnerability. Listen below.