Electronic Press Kit

AFENGINN

Rhythmic Ecstasy, Nordic Roots

Introduction:

Afenginn is a leading force in Nordic music, creatively merging the intensity of rock with the refined elements of classical and folk traditions. Celebrating over twenty years of artistic innovation, Afenginn ensures audiences of energetic and unforgettable live performances.

Full Bio:

Initiated in 2002 within Copenhagen's vibrant music and conservatory scene, Afenginn set out on a musical adventure that seamlessly blended the spirited sounds of Balkan brass with the poignant essence of Nordic folk. This fusion quickly garnered widespread admiration, propelling them onto a path of continuous musical evolution. Their journey has been marked by a series of albums that showcase their artistic growth and earn them international acclaim and numerous awards.

Their discography is a reflection of Afenginn's artistic journey, evolving from the lively 'Retrograd' (2004) to the more ambitious 'Klingra' (2019). Each album serves as a small milestone, revealing their progression as musicians and as a cohesive unit. The recognition they've received, highlighted by several Danish Music Awards, affirms their creative vision and the profound connection their music establishes with listeners.

The name Afenginn, which translates to 'intoxication and strength' from Old Norse, perfectly encapsulates the dual nature of their music: intricately layered yet powerfully compelling. Their compositions invite listeners on an emotional voyage, navigating through moments of exhilaration and introspection.

Afenginn's dedication to live performances has set a high standard, transforming their concerts into more than just musical events, but experiences that resonate on a deeper level with audiences.

Afenginn is eager to re-establish connections with long-standing fans and engage with new ones. They bring with them the depth of their musical explorations. In a time when the shared experience of music holds invaluable significance, Afenginn stands as a reminder of music's unifying and uplifting power.

The Ensemble:

Afenginn's unique sound is the result of a collaboration among very skilled musicians, each contributing their expertise to forge a sound that is both innovative and unmistakable. The ensemble features Rasmus Krøyer on clarinets, Niels Skovmand on violin, Kim Rafael Nyberg handling mandolin and compositions, Dánjal á Neystabø on piano, Erik Olevik on bass and cello, and Ulrik Brohuus on drums and percussion, together creating a vibrant and distinctive musical identity.

Discography

  • Retrograd (2004)

    Debut album; Danish Music Awards - World "Album of the Year" (2005).

    Listen on Spotify

  • Akrobakkus (2006)

    Introduced more complexity to their sound; instrumental virtuosity.

    Listen on Spotify

  • Reptilica Polaris (2007)

    Expanded narrative structure; Danish Music Awards - Folk "Contemporary Artist of the Year" (2008).

    Listen on Spotify

  • Bastard Etno (2010)

    Bold experimentation; Danish Music Awards - World "Album of the Year" (2010).

    Listen on Spotify

  • Lux (2012)

    Atmospheric and cinematic; a turning point towards deeper musical storytelling.

    Listen on Spotify

  • OPUS (2016)

    A conceptual masterpiece with an invented language; Carl Prisen "Roots Composer of the Year" (2017), Danish Music Awards - World "Composer of the Year" (2016), Danish Music Awards - Folk "Composer of the Year" and "Album of the Year" (2016).

    Listen on Spotify

  • Klingra (2019)

    Introspective and thematic; Faroese Music Awards "Album of the Year" and "Text of the Year" (2020).

    Listen on Spotify

  • Other Recognitions:

    * Danish Music Awards - World "Best Live Act" (2016).

    * Danish Music Awards - World "Composer of the Year" for 'Paxima' (2014).

    * Danish Musician's Union (DMF) "Live Prize" (2015).

    * "Den Unge Elite" grant from the Danish Arts Foundation (2009).

Listen up

VIDEOS

Collaborations

Throughout their career, Afenginn has embraced collaborative ventures that span the artistic spectrum. Noteworthy are their performances with choirs, such as the extensive "Choirnevale" project and their tour with the 60-piece Copenhagen Girls Chorus in California. They've also joined forces with Vokalselskabet GLAS, enhancing their shows with rich vocal harmonies.

The ensemble has ventured into dance, composing music for the ballet "SOMA" and the dance production "Hidden Senses." Their adaptability and explorative spirit have led them to perform with symphony orchestras and create music for film and theater, showcasing their expansive artistic range.

Selected Concerts/Venues:
Afenginn's touring history is as diverse as their music, with around 700 performances across Europe, the USA, and Australia. Their live presence has graced festivals like Roskilde Festival, Tønder Festival, WOMEX, and SPOT, as well as esteemed venues such as The Black Diamond, Musikhuset Aarhus, and Bellevue Theatre. International stages include SXSW (US), Penang World Music Festival (MAL), Urkult Festival (SE), Woodford Folk Festival (AUS), among many others, revealing their global footprint and the universal appeal of their performances.

Pictures

Photo: Jacob Crawfurd

Hi-res (5760x3840, 19,1 MB)
Mid-res (3000x2000, 4,8 MB)

Photo: Liv Anastasia Ikkala

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Photo: Søren Solkær

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Photo: Liv Anastasia Ikkala

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Mid-res (1533 × 2300, 2,5 MB)

Afenginn is a towering force in new Nordic music.
— fRoots Magazine

You would be hard-pressed to find a band that plays brilliant concerts like Afenginn.
— Peter Hvalkof, Roskilde Festival

RIDERS

 Contact us.

Booking inquiries:
Kim Nyberg


Phone: +45 21936222


Email: kim@afenginn.dk

Website: www.afenginn.net


Social links:

Experience the eclectic fusion of Afenginn, where Nordic heritage meets rhythmic innovation. Bring this celebrated ensemble to your festival or venue in 2024 and witness a performance that transcends musical boundaries and unites audiences in a shared journey of sound and spirit. Contact us to book an unforgettable musical experience with Afenginn.