Four men from different backgrounds have been coming together in bars and clubs recently to play music. Although the band is new, its members have been in music for a long time.
The band consists of:
Alfred Örn Lilliendahl – bass,
Arnar Már Ólafsson - vocals and guitar,
Hreidar Juliusson – drums
Magnus Thor Asgeirsson – guitar.
With families, other hobbies and sometimes more than full jobs, being in a band requires a significant amount of time and effort, including practicing, writing, and gigging. So why go through all this and form a band on top of life? Alfred: “It gives us a creative outlet. Being in a rock band is a way for us to express ourselves creatively and connect with audiences through music.” Additionally, Hreidar mentions that the band also provides a sense of belonging by creating an atmosphere of camaraderie.
But why this name, Flying Elbows? The name actually has nothing to do with Mua Tai or other martial arts where elbows fly, but is a reference to the golf swing, as Arnar is one of the main golf coaches in the Iceland. The beginning of the band can be traced back to playing for GKG (Golf Club of Kópavogur and Garðabær), but the band members decided not to stop there and let more than golfers enjoy the swing. Asked about the artistic direction Magnus states that the music is whatever the band wants to play at any given time, more often than not well known songs with hidden gems and original material in between.
Why should people come and see you? Hreidar: “There is not much live music in bars anymore and many people miss the experience. Listening to live music offers an opportunity to be fully present in the moment and to experience music in a way that can be more impactful than listening to a recording.” Alfred ads that people can expect the unexpected, live music is always unpredictable, an opportunity to experience an unique performance that is different from any previous experience. Magnus agrees: “It is an emotional connection between us and the audience. Live music is always an unique and dynamic experience. We would love to see you.”