Kaleo, an Icelandic blues rock band formed in 2012, has made significant strides in the music industry since their inception. The band, consisting of lead vocalist Jökull Júliusson, drummer Davíð Antonsson, bassist Daniel Kristjánsson, lead guitarist Rubin Pollock, and harmonicist Þorleifur Gaukur Davíðsson, quickly gained recognition with their self-titled debut album, which achieved gold status in Iceland. Their early success was bolstered by their captivating performances at the Iceland Airwaves music festival and a popular cover of “Vor í Vaglaskógi,” which garnered substantial airplay.
In 2015, Kaleo signed with Atlantic Records and relocated to Austin, Texas, marking a pivotal moment in their career. Their single “All the Pretty Girls” amassed over 87 million streams on Spotify, showcasing their growing popularity in the United States. The release of their major label debut album, A/B, in 2016 further solidified their status, with the hit single “Way Down We Go” achieving double platinum certification in the U.S. and topping the Billboard Alternative Songs chart.
Kaleo’s musical style, influenced by blues rock and indie folk, has resonated with audiences worldwide. Their distinctive sound, characterized by a resonator guitar, has drawn comparisons to legendary artists like Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin. The band has also made notable media appearances, including performances on late-night television shows, which have helped to broaden their reach.
Continuing their momentum, Kaleo released their third studio album, Surface Sounds, in 2021, featuring singles like “I Want More” and “Break My Baby.” Their commitment to their craft and ability to connect with fans through powerful music has established Kaleo as a formidable force in the contemporary music scene.