AAIIEENN Útgáfutónleikar

This Saturday at Mengi, we celebrate the release of Phonetically Ayen, the third album by the artist AAIIEENN—a project conceived by Hallmar Gauti Halldórsson. It is a remarkable musical work: a progressive electronic album that draws inspiration from IDM (Intelligent Dance Music) and electronic music of the 1990s. *Phonetically Ayen* is a truly original record that takes the listener on a beautiful, thought-provoking journey, while serving as a superb addition to a rapidly growing niche within the Icelandic electronic music scene. With *Phonetically Ayen*, AAIIEENN has taken significant strides in his creative output, drawing inspiration from a wide range of sources. The album features compelling motifs and intriguing atmospheres that evoke—and engage in a dialogue with—artists and bands such as Aphex Twin, Autechre, Funckarma, Proem, Múm, GAS, and The Orb. The entire sonic landscape is meticulously crafted—from the melodies and drum patterns to the chord progressions—reflecting Hallmar’s background as a guitarist. Hallmar was assisted in the production and recording process by Hrafnkell Líndal Arason; both are highly experienced in the creation and recording of electronic music, which ensured a smooth process for the recording and arrangement of the album. Friðfinnur Oculus handled the mastering, Þórir Georg designed the album artwork, and Hallmar Gauti took the photographs. Hrafnkel Líndall will perform the opening set this Saturday under the name Kvarter. Through this project, he explores the realm of electronic music, featuring broken beats, melodies that twist and stretch, and basslines designed to shake up the audience. He draws inspiration from progressive club music, as well as various other influences from the world of experimental electronic music.