Once viewed as a lonely, barren outpost, Iceland is today one of Europe's hippest travel destinations.

The explosion of Icelandic punk rock in Reykjavik in the 80's, and the subsequent international exposure of bands like The Sugarcubes and Bjork played a major role in putting the country on the map.

These bands helped draw attention not only to a vibrant music scene but also to the country’s idiosyncratic geological features, endless natural beauty and unique blend of ancient and modern living.

Twenty years on, Icelandic bands are still at the cutting edge of the international music scene.

The likes of Sigur Ros, Múm, Quarashi, The Leaves, Minus and Gus Gus are all showing that this isolated country is capable of producing world-class music, often with a leftfield twist.

Waking Up In Iceland takes the reader on an exciting, non-stop musical tour of Iceland, revealing it's colourful history and fascinating culture along the way.

Through illuminating interviews with internationally renowned music stars, traditional popular bands, folk musicians, historians, fishermen and seers, this book reveals a unique community rich in music, poetry, literature, mysticism and nature.