Prince Valium

Prince Valium

Prince Valium is the solo alias of Þorsteinn Ólafsson, an Icelandic musician who moves from earlier band work into ambient electronic music. He is based in Reykjavík and is also known for work under the name Sk/um, a duo project with fellow Icelander Skurken.

Career

Ólafsson starts out as a member of several bands before focusing on solo composition. His music under the Prince Valium name develops from the electronic style associated with his earlier work into more ambient sound. He works with guitar and computer-based production, and his solo recordings are described as being made at home over a short period.

Sk/um

In 2003, Ólafsson and Skurken release the album Í Þágu fallsins on Resonant Records under the name Sk/um. The project brings together the pair’s identities as Johann Omarsson and Thorstein Olafsson, and the release includes an exclusive remix by Arnar Helgi of the opening track “Tomatar”.

Andlaus

Andlaus appears on Resonant in 2006 as Prince Valium’s first solo release on the label. The title means “without breath”. It is mainly instrumental and leans towards ambient soundscapes, with guitar prominent alongside computer production. One track, “Crying Hearts”, features female vocals. The album marks a move away from the more playful, Plaid-like electronic style associated with his earlier material.