Icelandic composer and songwriter Kaktus Einarsson released his eagerly anticipated debut album ‘Kick The Ladder’ earlier this year and has now returned with his live EP, ‘In The Garden’. Recorded in the beautifully scenic Iceland with Thibault Gomez, Kurt Uenala, Helgi Svavar Helgason and Albert Finnbogason, it includes tracks ‘Kick The Ladder’, ‘Space Soul’ and ‘45RPM’.

The singles and their accompanying session video were captured at Kaktus’s childhood home, further exploring a key theme that ran throughout his record. ‘Kick The Ladder’ drew heavily on the concept of how we as a society relate to our surroundings, whether it’s environmental or personal, as well as relating to the birth of his daughter. He often wrote of optimistic dreams and memories, and how as we age we lose sight of what we want from life. On ‘In The Garden (Live Session)’, Kaktus returns to a place close to his own heart to recontextualize these blissful tracks in a confidently relaxed performance.

As well, the summery, sun-kissed atmosphere accentuates the production he harnessed to blend his addictive pop with flourishes of contemporary classical. The standout, dynamic musical craftsmanship and effortlessly charming delivery matches perfectly with the exquisite landscape of the Reykjavík suburbs. Distant birdsong between tracks only adds to the magical quality of the performance.

Kaktus tells us; “One day this summer, while I was rehearsing with the band for the first live performance of my album, the weather became so good (probably best day of the year), so we took essentials with us to my parents, and childhood place, to rehearse in the garden. We were going to make use of a double bass that was there, and bring congas instead of a drum kit. I’ve always had this very strong connection to my home and the nature that surrounds it, and it’s been one of my biggest sources of inspiration. I called Krummi, a film maker friend of mine, and my younger brothers were around to act as 2nd and 3rd camera operators so there was really nothing to stop us. Watching this video brings nothing but amazing memories from that day for everyone… Beautiful surrounding in such a good weather equals good times.”

Einarsson (b. 1992) has led a remarkable musical life. Born and raised in Reykjavík, he was playing as part of experimental electronic act Ghostigital at the tender age of ten. In Fufanu, he opened hometown shows for Radiohead and Red Hot Chilli Peppers. The band also supported Blur in Hyde Park, and stormed the festival circuit, appearing at the likes of Primavera Sound, Rock Werchter, Musilac and Down The Rabbit Hole.