Icelandic synth-pop duo East Of My Youth release their latest celestial single Broken Glass, out now via West Of My Future Ltd.
A majestic, cinematic soundscape, the track soars with shimmering melodies and sweeping vocals throughout. As a result of Herdís Stefánsdóttir’s compositional background, Broken Glass has a dynamic musicality and uses glitchy, synth-infused beats to create something playful yet dark. The outcome is a twinkling slice of dreamy, electro-pop akin to the likes of Anna of the North and Lykke Li.
In this interview spotlight, we chat with East of My Youth about influences, music consumption preferences, challenges, their latest project and much more.
Full Q&A along with links and the video for Broken Glass below.
Let’s dive a little deeper into You, the artist and your music. What attracted you to this genre(s) or style(s)?
Herdis: The interest in sounds and textures. Electronic music gives you endless possibilities of creating interesting soundscapes.
Thelma: Electronic music has the possibility to be larger than life even though it can all be made with two sets of hands within a small program on your laptop on a foggy afternoon. I think that’s rad and very attractive. But I also like the simple stuff.
How long have you been creating and sharing your music with the public?
Herdis: been creating music since around the age of 20. Started sharing music when releasing the first song with EOMY, Lemonstars.
Thelma: Well this is the third year that we work together as a band and it’s been amazing to see us both grow within the field of music. Composing, producing and performing has reached another level for us. The more time you spend on it the better it gets, obviously.
Who or what influences your playing and/or writing? Also, what motivates you to keep going?
Herdis: so many things, mostly being inspired by good music. But also energy, I like to write early in the morning with a fresh mind. I normally don’t feel inspired when I’m tired.
Thelma: There is an endless ocean of talented, inspiring composers, musicians and performers active in the music world right now that inspire a lot. But what really keeps me motivated is the feeling when I play the piano and connect my voice with an urge of expression and create vibes that resonate with me on a subconscious level.
Were you trying to accomplish anything specific on this new project? Creatively or otherwise?
Herdis: just learning by doing and creating something nice and beautiful.
Thelma: I guess in a way we were trying to open new doors of expression. And show ourselves if somebody can, we can do it.
What was the last song you listened to?
Herdis: Sevdaliza – Bebin
Thelma: The last song I listened to was JFDR song : White Sun. She’s a beautiful fellow Icelandic musician/composer/singer and def. worth diving into her world of expression. Simply beautiful.
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
Herdis: I like vinyl because then you listen actively to music and you need to put a little effort into the act of listening. But right now I haven’t had a permanent home for a while so Spotify is my best friend these days.
Thelma: Vinyl, always. Who doesn’t love that crackling vinyl sound.
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
Herdis: Spotify – good way to discover music.
Thelma: Spotify. It’s just really easy to use. Like the dark layout.
Other than the digital era overwhelming us with access to an abundance of music, what are one or two of the biggest challenges you face when trying to attract listeners to your music?
Herdis: It’s not easy as an independent artist and we are also releasing ourselves. So the trickiest part is to get the music out there, make people discover it. Spotify has been helpful in that sense and we have had some songs grow very organically there. I’ve also discovered some amazing artists via Spotify. …This interview is starting to make me look like I’m sponsored by Spotify…
Thelma: Oh god. There is just so much music being made that it’s hard to rise to the surface so when releasing music it’s really important to get it played as much possible and that can be tough, to get radio plays.
Do you gig, tour or perform? Do you ever live stream? Where can music lovers see you live?
Herdis: There are no upcoming gigs atm unfortunately.
Thelma: Yes, we have performed a bit. Mostly on showcase festivals such as Iceland Airwaves, SxSW and Eurosonic and I think there is actually a few live videos online on youtube. Not all good though, but hey you live and learn.
Where is the best place to connect with you online? Discover more of your music?
Herdis: EOMY’s facebook page!
Thelma: I guess Spotify is the best platform to discover.
Any last thoughts? Shout outs? Words of wisdom?
Herdis: Try to be grateful for something everyday 🙂
Thelma: Like Nike said : Just do it!
