Firewoodisland are a Bristol-based duo featuring Norwegian/Welsh musicians and songwriters Stian Vedøy and Abi Eleri. Their sound, which they have labelled ‘Mountain-Pop’, is a welcome one, reminiscent of the early folktronica and catchy DIY sound of Tunng and Scottish experimental pop band FOUND. Last friday, they released their new single ‘Who Knew’, which opens to glitchy lo-fi electronics through which twinkling playful notes of a piano can be heard. Even with the use of subtle vocoders, the song has an organic enegery, heightened by finger-picked acoustic guitar and percussive clockwork sounds. Stian’s sonorous vocals project a layer of warmth and intimacy before being joined by Abi – that vocal combo is so perfect. From here on in, the song takes flight, building, but so perfectly balanced that they never lose that warmth that just draws you in.
It’s all been so beautifully put together, I’m really looking forward to hearing more from the duo. Enjoy the accompanying story-like video the duo made, which was filmed and edited by Stian Vedøy with the Idea and Storyboarding by Abi Eleri (they also appear in the video alongside the lead couple). ‘Who Knew’ is also our Song of the Day.
Speaking about the track they share:
“It tells a story about meeting a person that captivates your whole being and changes your world views for the better.
Who Knew was written during a weekend retreat to the Isle of Wight. Abi turned to me (Stian) and said ‘you’ve never written a love song about me’, so he wrote this song. It’s a story about meeting a person that captivates your whole being and changes your world views for the better – basically the story of how we met in university halls in Cardiff.”
Throughout 2022 the duo have been writing and recording their 3rd album, which will be spread throughout 2023 via monthly singles. Across their new material, the band talk about their life stories, their struggles, their challenges and their hopes and dreams. Focusing on relatability and a more raw lyrical style than previous albums, the duo hope that their honesty will encourage others struggling with difficulties, and inspire people to grasp for their highest goals and live life to its fullest.
Upcoming Live Dates
FEB 17 FRI – Sofar Sounds, Bristol
APR 20 THU – Lighthouse, Poole
AUG 27th FRI – Between the Trees Festival 2023, Wales
Follow Firewoodisland
https://www.firewoodisland.com
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter