What is MFW’s next festival? Iceland Airwaves 2023 which takes place in, well, Iceland. More specifically the capital, Reykjavík.
What is the scene like at this fest? According to the website, “Iceland Airwaves is an immersive, multi-genre music festival held across a multitude of venues in the country’s capital, Reykjavík. This festival showcases acts ranging from unheard-of up-and-comers to headline status artists, ranging from established international talent to the country’s rich melting pot of domestic rising stars.”
Why did MFW choose to cover Iceland Airwaves? It’s our first time going to a festival in Iceland! This indie showcase fest has been on our bucket list for over 10 years and a European staple since we started the website. Check out their previous history on MFW here.
Photo Credit: Ásgeir Helgi
When is it happening? November 2-4, 2023.
Isn’t that going to be a bit cold? It may be on the cusp of winter, but the “world’s most northerly music showcase” is an indoor festival with performances hosted everywhere from a trendy hostel housed in an old biscuit factory to the Reykjavík Art Museum to a stately church.
Photo Credit: Gunnar Örn
So what music genres are we talking about? As far as I can tell, everything. Take a listen to the playlist below:
Let’s narrow it down a bit. What bands are you hoping to see? I’m looking to catch buzzy UK indie rock from Yard Act along with Bombay Bicycle Club performing tunes from their new album. Then it’s off to see Ukrainian band Love’n’Joy channel some 60s psychedelia followed by the cinematic sound of slowshift and one of the best Scottish live acts currently on tour, Gallus.
Anything else to keep an eye out for? I’m intrigued by the opening ceremony which takes place at a retirement home where the President of Iceland formally opens the festival with performances by Mugison and Una Torfa. And if you need a break from all the music, there’s a conference that takes place during the day – more on that over here.
Photo Credit: Florian Trykowski
How much and where do we pick up tickets? Move quickly as last year’s edition sold out. Currently, you pick up a 3-day pass on the official website for 19,900 Icelandic Krona.
Uhhhhh… Roughly $143, €136, or £118 for a 3-day pass. Single-day tickets are still available as well.
Photo Credit: Alexander Matukhno
Any final parting words? Fun fact – Iceland is one of the few countries in the world with no mosquitos. See you in the 2023 aftermovie!