One Direction: Midnight Memories Interview

As I settled into Hof Cultural Center, Akureyri's main venue for Iceland Airwaves, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. The festival had expanded to include shows in this charming town, where The Current broadcast from for two days on November 2 and 3. While Reykjavik was bustling with life, Akureyri offered a more laid-back atmosphere, with just three official venues and four off-venue spots (including Götubarinn, where we set up shop).

One of the highlights of my festival experience was meeting Grímur Atlason, the visionary behind Iceland Airwaves. His dedication to balancing the booking of over 250 acts onto a dozen official and more than 50 unofficial stages, spread across five days and nights, is truly impressive. Not only did he manage this feat, but he also played bass in at least one band most years (I saw him perform with Dr.).

The Current Effect was palpable as Mumford and Sons took the stage for their two-plus hour set. Despite initial skepticism from some fans, they won over even the most hardened critics with their sheer passion and energy. The roughly 5,000-seat hall was filled to capacity, with fans clapping and singing along to every word. The band even introduced a few new songs and covered Springsteen in their performance.

There had been some controversy surrounding Mumford and Sons' booking at Iceland Airwaves, as the festival is known for featuring more underground and alternative acts. However, it's clear that they have earned their place among the top tier of artists with their dedication to their craft and their loyal fan base.

As I watched Marcus Mumford speak a phrase in Icelandic to the cheers of the crowd at Valshöllin sports arena in Reykjavik this past Sunday night, it felt like a surreal moment. The band had wanted to experience Iceland's unique culture firsthand, even attending shows by other artists and touring the famous 'Golden Circle' of Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Þingvellir National Park on the morning of their show.

Their Midnight Memories tour is a testament to their enduring popularity, and it was an honor to experience it firsthand at Iceland Airwaves. As I left the festival grounds, I felt grateful for the opportunity to see one of the world's most beloved bands perform live, surrounded by some of the most passionate fans on the planet.

One direction midnight memories interview