Iceland

 :  I'm writing this in a rush at westfield, soakin up free wifi.. apologies if the formatting is fuckd, I'll fix it at a later date!

Sigur Ros are an Icelandic band that Wez introduced me to when we met. They're one of his favourites and I too have grown very fond of them. Gig addict WeZ was susing out tour dates earlier this year... Sigur Ros announced a gig in Iceland, the day before my birthday. They're a shy group, and hadn't played there in approx. 10 years. An opportunity not to be missed.

Unbeknown to me, he plotted and schemed. On the 27th of Oct, he let me in on the master plan, come the 29th, we flew to Iceland.

As I stepped out of the airport, the icy wind slapped me in the face and ran down through my bones to the tips of my toes. Talk about a breath of fresh air, holy shit ! It was so clean and fresh.. couldn't crack a smile at the scenery for too long.. felt like my teeth'd freeze 'n' fall out.

Our accommodation was awesome. It was once a biscuit factory that they transformed into what is now known as Kex hostel. By far the best hostel I've ever stayed in. Clean facilities were merely the tip of everything they have going for them. The wool wearing people were friendly and helpful - but not in your face ":D :D :D !!!" friendly, their peaceful nature and happy dispositions made the place a pleasure to be in. That vibe extended beyond the hostel doors.. everywhere we went, everyone seemed very complacent.

Rather than feel the need to get out and explore everyday, I think the best day we had, was the one when bad windy weather cancelled our plans, and we stayed at Kex. We picked a table in the bar, and the entertainment came to us. At least 30 people passed through our table seats as we drank, ate and took in the tunes together.

For the week we were in Iceland, Airwaves was also in town. An amazing festival that showcases the alternative talent Iceland and surrounding countries have to offer. Hundreds of local bands, aswell as overseas visitors come together for a week of sharing, partying, drinking and dancing. On-venues were for festival ticket holders, Off-venues were for everyone. Kex, along with many other bars, bookshops and cafes in town, was an off venue. Lack of a festival ticket was a non issue! We saw some mad bands. From viking lookin' dudes with ranga plaits and top hats to folky chicks with their guitars.

One of the side plans Wez had up his ever giving sleve was a trip to the Blue Lagoon Chill Party. 30deg sulpher-central water, 6deg outside, volcanic ash between our toes, steamy suana, icy wind, beanie and bikini with a DJ. A unique experience!

4th of nov - We saw Sigur Ros. If you haven't heard of them, give 'em a go. They make tunes that despite being in another language, can take you on a journey.. if you wish! It's calming peaceful stuff. I like it :)

Beacuse they hadn't played there in nearly 10 years, the boys felt a certain suspense and build up to the event. As result, they decided to announce a 7pm start, and come on at 8pm. I'm told they wanted to build the crowds suspense.. then BAM! Instead everyone got tired, thirsty and sick of waiting.

I forgave them, it was a great show. The tunes flowed for 2 hours. The stage was beautiful, with a big panoramc screen behind them and free standing light bulbs scattered across the stage that pulsed with the music. There was bit of a laser light show near the end.. a strange choice, more suited to a daft punk gig, but I'm not complaining.

 They pulled it off and it's a gig that'll stay with me for a long time to come.

Poor WeZ was very sick after the gig, an icelandic bug attacked his belly! >.< So I bought in my birthday by his bedside with a cup 'o chicken noodle soup and messages from home.

We took a tour the day of my birthday. It took us down the south coast to 2 waterfalls, a glacier and a black volcanic beach. It spat rain all day, and the wind nearly put me on my arse, but it was Iceland, and it was awesome!

Wet. cold. waterfall.