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Santa Semeli and the Monks is a music group formed in London in 2013 by Semeli Economou and Haraldur Agustsson. Semeli and Haraldur first met in 2012 when Semeli cast Haraldur in her short film ‘The Burning Bush’.

The name Santa Semeli and the Monks originated from Semeli’s philosophy that religion should serve art. Monks symbolise dedication to a greater cause thus making music the priority and not personal gain and gratification. They see entertainment as the best and most enjoyable way to convey messages across.

Santa Semeli and Monks are open to all musical genres, putting the emphasis on good quality/memorable songwriting both musically and lyrically.

All lyrics are based on Semeli Economou’s poetry which sometimes has an improvisational nature. The music is a collaboration between Economou and Agustsson with Agustsson often translating what melody’s Economou has in her head.

In June 2014 Santa Semeli and the Monks independently from their album produced and released their first single ‘Arrivederci Bob’ under their label Cosima Music. The upbeat tongue in cheek dance song reached number 3 in the Cyprus i-Tunes charts and amongst other radio stations was played by Frank Skinner on his Absolute Radio show.

Debut Album
In November 2014 SSATM released their self titled debut album which is a collection of thirteen songs varying in style and genre. It comprises of punk, rock n’roll, folk, a sentimental russian ballad, a cuban tango, lullaby, blues, and easy listening. The narrative is mainly based on Economou’s personal relationships.

The album was recorded and mixed in London by James Aparicio at Limehouse Studios and mastered by Tim Young at Metropolis studios. It was arranged and produced by Semeli Economou and Haraldur Agustsson. Gaspar Hunt contributed in some of the arrangements.

2014 Tour
In October 2014 SSATM embarked on a small promotional tour. They played the Menil Fest in Paris, CBGB festival in New York, The Hamptons International Film Festival, in Cyprus and Reykjavik part of Iceland Airwaves. In Cyprus they performed live on TV on the cultural program Entexnos.

The musicians in the group comprise of Semeli Economou on lead vocals, Haraldur Agustsson on guitar, Gaspar Hunt on piano/keys, Conor Cotterill on bass, Gudny Jonasdottir on cello, Hringur Gretarsson on trumpet and Andrea Turco on drums.

Santa Semeli and the Monks have collaborated with local musicians during their tour.

Musical style:

Santa Semeli and the Monks musical style has been described as visual and filmic whilst filled with sense of humour and brutal honesty that engages its audience.

Life performances:

SSATM have performed in New York, London, Paris, Reykjavik and Nicosia.

Semeli’s volcanic stage presence has been compared to artists such as Kate Bush, Liza Minnelli, Siouxie and the Banshees, Patti Smith and Marlene Dietrich.

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