“Alltaf er einhver sem grætur”

Icelandic/Portuguese Fado Concert in Harpa, November 1

Kristjana Arngrímsdóttir, one of Iceland’s foremost folk singers, and José Manuel Neto, one of the most acclaimed contemporary Portuguese guitarists, come together for a unique Fado concert in Harpa on November 1st. This is a rare opportunity to experience Fado like never before, where the soulful tradition of Portuguese fate-filled music intertwines with Icelandic poetry and song. Neto performs on the iconic Portuguese guitar, adding a mesmerizing, melancholic depth, while Kristjana brings her distinct voice and atmosphere to the emotional and expressive world of Fado.

Kristjana Arngrímsdóttir, a vocalist born in Dalvík and now living in Svarfaðardalur, North Iceland, began her career with the renowned ensemble Tjarnarkvartettinn, which gained recognition both in Iceland and abroad. They performed at numerous festivals and were among the featured artists at the World Expo in Lisbon, Portugal, in 1998. Kristjana launched her solo career in 2000 and has since collaborated with many of Iceland’s leading musicians. She has released five solo albums: Þvílík er ástin, Í húminu, Tangó fyrir lífið, Stjarnanna fjöld, and most recently, Ég hitti þig við, where she composed original music to poems by Icelandic women poets. Now, she brings us the rich and expressive world of Fado, her deep and captivating voice blending beautifully with the sound and soul of the genre.

José Manuel Neto, a Lisbon-born guitarist, visits Iceland for the first time for this special performance. Born and raised in the heart of Fado culture, he has long been among the leading interpreters of the guitarra portuguesa - a 12-string instrument quite distinct from the classical guitar, especially in tone and resonance. His playing is marked by softness, versatility, and narrative clarity. Over the years, Neto has performed with some of Portugal’s most celebrated Fado singers, including Carlos do Carmo, Camané, Ana Moura, Mariza, and António Zambujo. He has played on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, including London’s Royal Albert Hall. He has received numerous awards and accolades for his music and has released a solo album and composed for film and other media.

A truly special evening awaits - an Icelandic-Portuguese Fado experience brought to life by Kristjana Arngrímsdóttir and José Manuel Neto, for one night only.

Performers

Kristjana Arngrímsdóttir – vocals José Manuel Neto – Portuguese guitar

Band::

Jón Rafnsson – bass

Örn Eldjárn Kristjánsson – guitars, vocals

Kristofer Rodríguez Svönuson – percussion