STARA is Halldór Smárason’s debut album. 

It was recorded in Halldór’s hometown of Ísafjörður, in the Westfjords region in the northwestern part of Iceland. 

Featuring works from different stages in the composer’s life, ranging from his student years in New York to this day as a family man and freelance composer, STARA shows Halldór’s development of a characteristic style and unique sense of narrative. All the works on the album are inspired by personal experiences, and are often dedicated to people close to the composer himself. 

STARA features Halldór’s three string quartets: draw + play, Stara, and BLAKTA; the guitar solo piece Skúlptúr 1; and the chamber works _a_at_na and stop breathing. 

Halldór’s music has been described as atmospheric yet aggressive, characterized by a simmering energy just beneath the surface that erupts from time to time. His compositional voice is highly original and personal.

In each composition, Halldór strives for a distinct approach, which is guided by the specifics of the composition (the occasions, the space, 

the instruments, the performer, etc.). As a result, his sonic repertoire is extremely rich. He often includes extra-musical and music-theatrical aspects, which create highly distinct artistic experiences. Additionally, Halldór has been acknowledged for high attention to detail in regards to sound and notation. 

STARA is intended to be an insightful portrait of the composer, introducing Halldór’s poetic sonic world.

Track List

1. draw + play - [7:51]

2. stop breathing - [7:47]

3. Stara - [9:10]

4. Skúlptúr 1 - [4:38]

5. BLAKTA - [11:23]

6. _a_at_na - [8:08]

Total time: 49:02
Release date: June 26th, 2020
UPC: 053479224224

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Quotes & Reviews

“On Stara, Smárason distinguishes himself by filling in the silence with music of an uneasy demeanor from which one receives little respite or release. His work is unerringly paced and delicately unnerving.”

Christian Carey, Sequenza 21

“ Smárason probably will not be to the taste of those with no interest in avant-garde music, but this music is clear and accessible…  and this sounds like the beginning of a brilliant career.”

James Manheim, AllMusic

“It’s a sound world rather than music. The “sound” that appears in the space and the “sound” that occupies it makes me feel good. After all, I enjoy this direction. […] so it is a recommended piece!! I have decided to list him as a favorite musician”

Kokoton