The Reykjavík Blues Festival opens with a live blues concert in the city centre on April 16. This year, the festival’s official club will be at the Hilton Nordica and will be open after the evening concerts on April 19, 20 and 21.

The 2009 Blues Festival. Photo by Páll Kjartansson.

On Tuesday, April 19 at 8 pm, Björgvin Halldórsson, Páll Rósinkranz and The Blues Mafia will perform at the Hilton Nordica. A press release promises guests will see a new side of Halldórsson, one of Iceland’s most popular singers.

The Blues band Ferlegheit will also perform and, in addition, Eurovision star Jóhanna Gudrún Jónsdóttir and Elvar Örn Fridriksson will be making a special appearance, accompanied by a band, as this year’s young blues talent.

The following day at the same time and place, Marquise Knox, “the Crown Prince from Mississippi” steps on stage. She is one of the most promising blues musicians that America has seen in years, the press release states.

The band Klassart will also perform at this evening’s concert.

On Thursday, April 21, it’s time for Vasti Jackson and The Blue Ice Band. Jackson is a world renowned guitarist and vocalist. His performances and stage presence are described both as “riveting” and “captivating”.

One of Iceland’s most promising blues bands, the Stone Stones, will also be appearing at this evening’s concert.