What makes The Story of Iceland by Eyvind Kang notable?

This album stands out for its unique fusion of sounds and has influenced a generation of avant-garde musicians. It received critical acclaim, notably from publications like The Wire, which recognized Kang's ability to create immersive sonic landscapes that explore cultural themes. Released in 2000, The Story of Iceland is Eyvind Kang's fourth album and marks a significant shift in his artistic approach. At this point in his career, he was gaining recognition for his innovative blending of classical and jazz elements, following his earlier works like Virginal Co-ordinates and The Narrow Garden.

Who is The Story of Iceland for?

The Story of Iceland works well if you're into intricate soundscapes for deep listening, short bursts of reflective calm and long, contemplative pieces to explore.

How many songs are on The Story of Iceland?

The Story of Iceland has 7 tracks, running approximately 43 minutes.

The Story of Iceland

Eyvind Kang · 2000

43 min · 7 tracks · jazz

Eyvind Kang's work weaves intricate jazz textures with experimental soundscapes, creating a rich auditory tapestry that evokes the essence of Iceland.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Story of Iceland: Circle of Fair Karma, Part 2 — This lengthy piece showcases Kang's signature style, combining lush orchestration with haunting melodies that evolve over time, immersing listeners in a journey through sound.
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10:10 (The Beloved One) — This track stands out for its emotional depth and intricate layering of instruments, highlighting Kang's capacity to convey narrative through abstract musical forms.
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The Story of Iceland: Sweetness of Candy — A brief yet impactful piece, it juxtaposes playful rhythms with a sense of nostalgia, making it a distinctive moment in the album’s flow.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

intricate soundscapes for deep listening
short bursts of reflective calm
long, contemplative pieces to explore
evocative atmospheres for quiet moments

Maybe skip if you

prefer upbeat, fast-paced tracks
seek straightforward song structures

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2000, The Story of Iceland is Eyvind Kang's fourth album and marks a significant shift in his artistic approach. At this point in his career, he was gaining recognition for his innovative blending of classical and jazz elements, following his earlier works like Virginal Co-ordinates and The Narrow Garden.
Stylistic neighbors: John Zorn· David Torn· Tim Berne

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 The Story of Iceland: Circle of Fair Karma, Part 1 1:48
2 The Story of Iceland: Circle of Fair Karma, Part 2 15:07
3 The Story of Iceland: Sweetness of Candy 3:06
4 The Story of Iceland: Hour of Fair Karma, Part 1 4:32
5 The Story of Iceland: Hour of Fair Karma, Part 2 6:07
6 10:10 (The Beloved One) 10:12
7 Ayanamsha 2:12

What to play next

Listen next

Live Low to the Earth, in the Iron Age

2002

Go back to

Theater of Mineral NADEs

1998

Full Eyvind Kang discography Artists like Eyvind Kang

jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata