In a packed Reykjavík alehouse two black-clad, masked figures appear onstage with a minimal setup of a computer, a keyboard, and a couple of mics. This equipment is accompanied by a tableau of props including knives, scissors and small animal figurines. The music that follows is raw, unruly and experimental, backed by a minimalistic but steady electronic beat. The pair occasionally flash secretive hand gestures, covering their eyes as they sing about killing, cutting, death and sorrow. They are Madonna + Child, a mysterious duo known for their alternative approach to music and performance.
This offbeat approach has gained them a cult following. In July of last year, a cassette release of their debut album ‘All Around You’ quickly sold-out. After some Airwaves off-venues, they opened for Icelandic music legend Megas at a sold out show in December. “Half the people were very confused and didn’t understand what was going on, while the other seemed to like it,” they recall. Perhaps Megas himself received a similar reaction, back in the day.
The masked duo are planning to bolster their live performances by adding visuals to their setup. “We’re working on a choreographed dance, which we will reveal this year,” they eagerly announce.
With all these plans, and a song on the recent MYRKFÆLNI magazine compilation, it appears that Madonna + Child’s cult congregation is set to grow and grow.
See Madonna + Child live at Húrra on February 8th. Follow them on Soundcloud and Facebook.