Hilmar Örn Hilmarsson, born in 1958, occupies an unusual space in Icelandic society: celebrated composer, key collaborator in alternative music circles, and leader of the Ásatrúarfélagið, the Icelandic pagan religious association. Known to many as HÖH, Hilmarsson’s background ranges from the experimental edge of Iceland’s musical landscape to the spiritual revival of Norse heritage.
From experimental bands to acclaimed composer
Growing up in Reykjavík, Hilmar Örn began his musical journey as a drummer in school bands during the 1970s. His early projects evolved quickly, reflecting the shifting music trends of the era. One formative group, Frostrósir (Frost Roses), leaned toward disco, but by 1980, the band had become Þeyr, taking on a new artistic direction. Þeyr’s evolving line-up saw Hilmarsson involved in songwriting, band management, and even founding an independent record label and publishing company, Eskvimó (Esquimaux Management). Þeyr became influential in Iceland, remembered for albums such as “Útfrymi” and “Mjötviður Mær.”
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Hilmarsson collaborated across Iceland’s dynamic scene. His connections linked him to artists such as Björk Guðmundsdóttir, Sigur Rós, Eivør Pálsdóttir, and international acts like Psychic TV and Current 93. Some projects were short-lived, such as Elgar Sisters and Frostbite, but others, like his work composing and arranging music alongside Sigur Rós for the film “Angels of the Universe,” left a lasting cultural mark.
Beyond bands, Hilmarsson became renowned for composing film scores, working extensively with noted Icelandic director Friðrik Þór Friðriksson. His soundtrack contributions spanned Icelandic and international productions. A highlight came in 1993, when he received the European Film Composer of the Year award for “Children of Nature,” which earned an Academy Award nomination.
Honouring old gods and new sounds
While his music career continued, Hilmarsson’s spiritual life followed another path. He joined the Ásatrúarfélagið, the association dedicated to the old Norse religion, in 1974 as a teenager. Decades later, he became its chief goði (allsherjargoði), a role he has held since 2003. Ásatrú, focused on reviving and practicing the religion of Iceland’s pre-Christian settlers, has seen a revival, in part due to Hilmarsson’s energy and visibility.
Hilmarsson’s work reflects the intersections at the heart of present-day Iceland: creativity, tradition, and an openness to both ancient ritual and musical experiment. His influence can be found in the background of iconic Icelandic releases, in film music recognised across Europe, and in the ceremonies of Ásatrúarfélagið, integrating the island’s mythic past with its modern voice.
Sources
- Wikipedia
- Wikipedia (Icelandic) in Icelandic
