Kukl (band)

Kukl was an Icelandic avant-garde band active from 1983 to 1986. The band's name, meaning "witchcraft" or "hood" in Icelandic, reflected their experimental and often dark artistic aesthetic. Kukl was notable for its blend of punk rock, post-punk, and art rock influences, incorporating elements of noise, performance art, and visual elements into their performances.

The band's core members included vocalist Björk Guðmundsdóttir, keyboardist Einar Örn Benediktsson, drummer Sigtryggur Baldursson, bassist Guðmundur Óskar Guðmundsson, and guitarist/saxophonist Einar Melax. Their music often featured unconventional song structures, dissonant harmonies, and politically charged lyrics, often presented with Björk's distinctive and powerful vocal delivery.

Kukl released two studio albums: The Eye (1984) and Holidays in Europe (The Naughty Nineties) (1986). The band toured extensively throughout Europe and gained a cult following for their intense and challenging live shows.

After Kukl disbanded, several members went on to form or join other influential Icelandic bands. Most notably, Björk achieved international fame as a solo artist, and Einar Örn co-founded The Sugarcubes with Björk and Sigtryggur. The legacy of Kukl remains significant in the history of Icelandic music, as they are recognized as pioneers of the country's vibrant alternative music scene.