Even though we are in Iceland, we still discover bands that are new for us, and are always surprised by the musical quality. As Kai had his way with some mellow alternative and electro bands over the last weeks, I think it’s now time for some loud! distorted! guitars!

Please welcome: Nögl. The band name translated means “thumbnail”, and the four guys from Reykjavik play a sound that resembles 90ies rock and punk staples like The Offspring and more recent combos like Blink 182, though adding more heaviness and screamo to their songs – and those songs have definite ear-catcher qualities . They have also just released their debut album called “I Proudly Present”, which surprised me with the quality of sound, a thing I did not find among too many recordings of Icelandic rock-outfits yet. As it is a beautiful sunny day in Reykjavik, here they are with the Icelandic version of Shakin’ Stevens’ “Merry Christmas”: