Magnus Johann
& Oskar Guðjonsson
A Curious Musical Duo
Pianist Magnús Jóhann and saxophonist Óskar Guðjónsson share an insatiable curiosity for the world. Whether discussing espresso machines, saxophone mouthpieces, or diverse music genres, they engage in endless conversations. Born and raised in Reykjavík, these two artists, separated by roughly twenty years, discovered common ground in their quintessentially Icelandic sound.
In 2022, Magnús approached Óskar with an idea: to create a duo record. They rehearsed diligently, crafting new music specifically for the occasion. The result? “Fermented Friendship,” an album recorded in two delicate sessions at Norðurljós, the concert hall renowned for its sublime acoustics. Lamps and plants set the mood as the duo played in near darkness, their somber and soft tones enveloped by vast, airy echoes.
Bergur Þórisson, musical director and engineer for Björk, captured their artistry. The album promises poignant chord progressions and haunting melodic themes. As the fall of 2024 approaches, “Fermented Friendship” eagerly awaits its release under Sony Music.
Óskar Guðjónsson
Award-Winning Saxophonist
Óskar’s saxophone prowess has graced numerous albums since his career began in 1997. His work with the band ADHD and duo records alongside bassist Skúli Sverrisson has captivated jazz enthusiasts worldwide. The New York Times likened his playing to “Stan Getz in an echo chamber,” a testament to his unique style.
Collaborating with artists like Chris Speed, Jim Black, and Warp’s Bibio, Óskar founded ADHD in 2013. Their European jazz circuit success stems from his strong character and highly respected tenor tone.
Magnús Jóhann
A Sonic Explorer
Although trained as a jazz pianist, Magnús Jóhann finds inspiration in–well–nearly everything. ‘If your creative antenna is powered on,’ he says, ‘the most mundane things or activities can be sources of deep inspiration.’ Maybe this helps explain irreverent song titles such as ‘Clean Teeth’ or ‘Einkavæðing Búnaðarbankans’ (Privatisation of the Agricultural Bank). When one finds the world so rich with meaning, nothing is simple or single-sided.
The same holds true for Magnús Jóhann’s music: it is never merely serious or silly, loud or quiet, plain or complex… it is neither this nor that, but always many things at once.