Icelandic born composer Jóhann Jóhannsson caused a medium sized storm in my teacup earlier this year with his wonderful IBM 1401, A User’s Manual. This fascinating piece of work explored the question of whether or not computers have the ability to inspire melody, taking the clicks and whirrs from Iceland’s first supercomputer to make a beautiful album where even the reading of a printer manual can sound something special. His early work is unknown in the UK, hence the release by 4AD of Englabörn, previously released on Touch Music back in 2002.

Englabörn was written to soundtrack Havar Sigurjonsson’s Icelandic play of the same name. It is written to be performed by both electronic devices and conventional instruments, giving a welcome blend of icy soundscapes with the warmth of an orchestra. There is much repetition – as you would expect in a soundtrack – but with varying reflections on a theme providing much atmosphere.

Opening track “Odi Et Amo” sets the theme well. Its sampled, garbled voices pushed to the front whilst strings lament in the background. Much of the album plays like a Japanese videogame soundtrack – in fact, gaming fans who enjoy the music in Zelda (particularly the Ocarina of Time) will adore this album. “Salfraedingur” will remind you of moments running across Hyrule Field. “Salfraedingur Deyr” sounds like music to a boss fight. Whilst “Bad” just makes me think of getting power-ups from the fairies. This is a fine composition, gentle with a hint of the sinister, and certainly worthy of its second release.
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Links
Jóhann Jóhannsson [official site] [myspace]