AppleTV+ - Icelandic Composer Atli Örvarsson unveils Unique Recording Process

By Mulder, 21 march 2024

In a unique blend of creativity and innovation, Atli Örvarsson, the award-winning composer renowned for his work on Defending Jacob, The Hitman’s Bodyguard, and Chicago Fire, has recently been nominated for a BAFTA Award for his exceptional score in Apple TV's critically acclaimed sci-fi epic series, Silo. Drawing inspiration from the haunting landscapes of Iceland, Örvarsson embarked on an extraordinary musical journey, recording portions of the score in decommissioned silos to capture the essence of isolation and claustrophobia that underpins the series' atmosphere.

Collaborating with Oscar-nominated director Morten Tyldum, who directed the first three episodes of Silo and previously worked with Örvarsson on Defending Jacob, the pair have once again demonstrated their harmonious partnership. Silo's soundtrack, enriched by its unique instrumentation and recording locations, is now available through Platoon, with the series enjoying its successful run on Apple TV+ and a second season eagerly anticipated in early 2025.

At the heart of Örvarsson's score is the innovative use of a Magnetic Resonator Piano, an augmented Steinway piano transformed through electromagnetics to produce continuously modifiable tones. This pioneering technique, along with the reimagining of other instruments, adds a unique sound to the show, mirroring the post-apocalyptic world it depicts. Örvarsson's dedication to authenticity is evident in the meticulous 5-hour tuning process of the piano, visuals of which have been shared on his Instagram, inviting fans to delve deeper into the composer's creative world.

Silo, crafted by Graham Yost and starring Golden Globe nominee Rebecca Ferguson, plunges viewers into the dystopian reality of the last ten thousand people on Earth, confined within a mile-deep silo that shields them from the toxic world outside. The series weaves a narrative rich in mystery and dark undertones, reflecting Örvarsson's childhood experiences in Iceland, which significantly influenced his composition for the series.

The Silo score, initiated from the script before the completion of CGI, stands as a testament to Örvarsson's ability to transcend visual cues, composing music that not only complements the series' grand scale but also deepens the emotional and thematic resonance of its world. His proactive approach in composing Silo's main title theme, which later inspired the direction of the title sequence, underscores the impact of music in shaping narrative and visual storytelling.

Atli Örvarsson's extensive portfolio, spanning over 40 feature films and TV projects and collaborations with icons such as RZA, Hans Zimmer, and Ólafur Arnalds, alongside his recent BAFTA nomination, cements his reputation as one of the most versatile and innovative composers in the industry. As Silo continues to captivate audiences worldwide, Örvarsson's score remains a pivotal element of its success, echoing the depths of human emotion and the complexities of a world ensconced in mystery and survival.

Synopsis :
In a future where the Earth has been devastated and the air has become toxic, the survivors live in a giant 144-storey underground silo. Within this community, individuals must abide by a series of strict rules designed to protect them. Citizens who break the law are sent outside the silo, condemned to die in the unbreathable atmosphere. Gradually, however, the idea that those in charge are lying about what's going on outside is gaining ground...

Silo
Created by Graham Yost
Based on Wool series by Hugh Howey
Starring Rebecca Ferguson, Rashida Jones, David Oyelowo, Common, Tim Robbins, Harriet Walter, Avi Nash, Rick Gomez, Chinaza Uche
Composer : Atli Örvarsson
Executive producers : Graham Yost, Morten Tyldum, Rebecca Ferguson, Nina Jack, Hugh Howey, Fred Golan, Remi Aubuchon, Ingrid Escajeda
Producers : Cassie Pappas, Jessica Blaire, Aric Avelino
Cinematography : Mark Patten, David Luther; Laurie Rose
Editors : Hazel Baillie, Christian Sandino Taylor, Keith Henderson, Jean Crupper
Production companies : Mímir Films, Nemo Films, AMC Studios
Network : Apple TV+
Release May 5, 2023 – present
Running time : 43–62 minutes

For more Örvarsson, visit:
Atli Örvarsson’s website: https://www.atliorvarsson.com/about
Atli Örvarsson’s Instagram: @atliorvarsson