Updated: June 7, 2026
Born: May 20, 1982
Freysteinn is deeply drawn to the process of making music—the slow, evolving journey of practice, discovery, and expression.
As a composer, he is constantly searching for new sounds, textures, and emotional landscapes, allowing each piece to emerge from a place of curiosity and honesty.
A dedicated double bassist and composer, Freysteinn has shaped his voice through years of focused study and international experience. He began his musical education at Félag Íslenskra Tónlistarmanna (FÍH) in Reykjavík, graduating in 2012. He then moved to the Netherlands to study at the Royal Conservatoire in The Hague, where he completed his Bachelor’s degree in 2016. Continuing his artistic development, he pursued further studies at Escola Superior de Música de Lisboa (ESML) in Portugal.
Freysteinn has performed extensively across Europe, appearing at festivals such as the Reykjavík Jazz Festival, Dola Jazz in Norway, and the Vilnius Jazz Festival in Lithuania. Whether as a bandleader or a sideman, he has brought his music to audiences in countries including the Netherlands, Germany, Portugal, Spain, and Iceland.
His work is rooted in a strong sense of exploration and storytelling. On stage, he combines sensitivity, intensity, and a distinctive musical voice, always aiming to create meaningful connections with listeners.
For Freysteinn, music is more than performance—it is a way of understanding and sharing the human experience. His ongoing pursuit of depth and authenticity continues to shape a body of work that is both personal and resonant.
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Freysteinn Gíslason: Að einhverju / To somewhere
by Glenn Astarita
Emerging from Iceland's volcanic landscape--a land where glaciers and geysers conspire to create heavenly magic--Freysteinn arrives with their third sonic missive, Að einhverju/To somewhere. This is not your grandmother's jazz album; it is a musical expedition that pirouettes between traditional Icelandic folk whispers, rock and a progressive jazz swagger. Along with the melodic complexities of prominent guitarist Hilmar Jensson, the band crafts a soundscape that's equal parts cerebral and visceral. The title track “Að einhverju/To Somewhere" unfurls like ...
Continue ReadingFreysteinn Gíslason: í allar áttir en samt bara eina
by Glenn Astarita
Allar Áttir En Samt Bara Eina is an LP by Freysteinn Gíslason, an Icelandic bassist known for his unique approach to music. His band often blends various influences into the program, incorporating elements of jazz, blues, and experimental sounds. His bass playing is known for its depth and versatility, often creating intricate melodies and rhythms which captivate listeners.The LP title, which translates as “In All Directions but Still Just One," suggests a diverse exploration within a unified theme. ...
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