KALEO

KALEO is an Icelandic rock band that was formed in 2012 in Mosfellsbær, Reykjavík. The group is made up of lead vocalist and guitarist Jökull Júlíusson (JJ), drummer Davíð Antonsson, bassist Daníel Ægir Kristjánsson, lead guitarist Rubin Pollock, and harmonica player Þorleifur Gaukur Davíðsson. The band’s name, “KALEO,” means “the voice” in Hawaiian, a fitting representation of their powerful and soulful sound.

Their journey began in earnest with a series of standout performances at the 2012 Iceland Airwaves music festival, which led to the release of their self-titled debut album in 2013. The album achieved gold status in Iceland and featured five number-one hits, laying the foundation for their first European tour.

In 2015, KALEO signed with Atlantic Records and moved to Austin, Texas, to expand their presence in the U.S. Their breakthrough came in 2016 with the album A/B, which included the hit single “Way Down We Go.” The song topped the Billboard Alternative Songs chart and went double platinum in the U.S., propelling them to international fame.

KALEO has toured extensively, performing alongside major artists like The Rolling Stones and The Lumineers, and appearing at iconic festivals such as SXSW. Their music is a unique mix of blues rock, indie folk, and alternative rock, influenced by legendary musicians like Jimi Hendrix and Carlos Santana.

In 2021, the band released Surface Sounds, their third studio album, which further cemented their place in the global rock scene, showcasing their evolving musical style and continued success.