ylja

Ylja is an Icelandic folk-pop act formed in Reykjavík in 2008 by guitarists and singers Gígja Skjaldardóttir and Bjartey Sveinsdóttir. The pair build the project around vocal harmonies and acoustic guitar, and begin performing live across Iceland soon after forming.

Line-up and development

After a few years of live activity, Icelandic slide-guitarist Smári Tarfur joins the group in late 2011. His lap-style slide playing becomes part of the band’s sound, alongside the duo’s melodic vocals and guitar work. The act remains centred on the creative direction of Skjaldardóttir and Sveinsdóttir.

Performances and profile

Ylja appears at three consecutive Iceland Airwaves festivals, the Bræðslan Festival in the East Fjords, and the Aldrei fór ég suður festival. The group also performs with Glen Hansard and gives a concert for the Icelandic President, helping establish its reputation as a live act in Iceland.

Recording

The band’s debut album, Ylja, is released in 2012 and draws attention in Iceland, helping to increase the group’s visibility and audience.