Emil Friis is a Danish, Copenhagen based composer, working within the realm of music for film and recorded works. Through his lack of formal training Friis has created a musical language filled with sensibility, tension, brightness and somber beauty. Utilizing many of the instruments within the orchestra, but always intertwined with an array of different machines for processing and synthesis, his work is characterized by its ability to mirror the human condition.
His early voyage into music was established between the grooves of his father’s vinyl collection, where legends like Bob Dylan and Elvis Presley spun folk tales, which kindled in him a profound adoration for narrative-infused melodies. Today, he finds continued inspiration in the sincere minimalism of Gavin Bryars’ compositions. But also, the works of masters like Johan Sebastian Bach and Ludwig van Beethoven and Jeff Bridges and Keefus Ciancia’s grossly underrated work Sleeping Tapes influence his artistry.
Throughout his career as a film composer he has had the privilege of scoring notable film and TV projects, frequently working alongside award winning filmmakers such as Morgan Jon Fox, Kevin Brooks, Shaun Hart and Jannik Splidsboel. As a recording artist he has released a number of albums, among them the ambient long players Songs From The Deep and Untitled Dreams as well as the piano work Mirrors and the stand out score to Undersea, to name a few.
His compositions, whether ambient or gently emotive, balancing both light and shadow, have been touched by the talents of musicians like Davide Rossi and Bobby Furgo (Leonard Cohen) among others. In addition to his composer work he is also a curious analog photographer.
Moving Images, his solo debut for influential British label 130701 is slated for release in late summer 2025. Not solely a music release, it bridges Friis’ music and films by an array of mainly American filmmakers.
A few quotes regarding Emil’s work:
Jonathan Meyers (Director, Screenwriter): "Emil's talent and instincts are simply unparalleled. He draws out powerful and emotional connections to the visuals, and I never cease to be amazed by how his unique touch elevates the material he's given. Yet, despite his phenomenal skill, what truly sets Emil apart from his peers is his spirit of collaboration. His influence extends far beyond his music; he enriches the entire creative process, making it more thrilling and rewarding. Emil Friis is not just an artist, he's a brilliant voice that elevates our stories into the realm of the extraordinary."
Rob Knox (Emmy Award Winning Producer): “I am a longtime admirer of Emil Friis, especially of his film composition work. In his music, Emil deftly transports the emotions of an audience subtly and profoundly. “
Morgan Jon Fox (Director): “Working with Emil as a composer has been one of the most exhilarating artistic collaborations of my career. Emil is one of these rare super talented artists without an ego, who brings all of the magic to the table but with such care and consideration for what is best for the project. A dream collaborator, and a dear friend.”
Emil Friis
+45 61716513
emilfs@gmail.com
Record Label
130701 / FatCat
Alex Knight - alex@fatcat.co.uk