Body&Soul today unveiled its first artist announcement for the 2018 festival, the singular sound of Swedish artist Fever Ray. An artist of metamorphosis by nature, Fever Ray perfectly encompasses the theme for the 2018 festival, Alchemy – the art and act of transformation.

Fever Ray is the alter ego of Karin Dreijer, who burst onto the electronic scene nearly a decade ago with an unparalleled artistry that encompasses not just sound, but rich visuals and costumes that are in turn enticing and experimental.

A champion of feminist and queer theory, Dreijer’s last Fever Ray album emerged in 2009, exploring the world of motherhood and the associated exhaustion-induced reveries. Their latest release, Plunge, has allowed sex to take centre stage alongside queerness, community and freedom to experiment.

Fever Ray has shape-shifted from white witch to skeletal ghoul and even a skull-capped joker-style submissive; willing to push the boundaries of expectation to create thrilling, unnerving and unforgettable performances.

Fever Ray’s Friday night curations for the Body&Soul Stage will be released in the coming weeks with the line-up for the full festival forthcoming.

Their signature fervent romance is audible on tracks like ‘To the Moon and Back’, whereas recent release ‘Wanna Sip’ takes this obsession and twists it, becoming more manic and immediate.

Described by Dazed as a ‘sex-soaked ode to non-normative desires’ Fever Ray’s new incarnation is unabashed and joyful, bringing everything to the table and creating space for celebration and frustration, darkness and light.

Body&Soul 2018 – Alchemy Edition

With wellbeing at its core from the beginning, Body&Soul offers an extensive indulgence programme finessed over years. Masseuses, therapists, leading yogis and sound healers await in the Sanctuary tent, with the Spa available to soothe the senses in seaweed baths, woodfired hot tubs, Balinese steam treatments and turmeric tonics.

Hidden art installations, immersive theatre experiences and impromptu spoken word performances also await discovery in the expansive grounds, offering moments of joy and surprise for those who find them. Expect incisive political discussion, insightful workshops and a lively programme of children’s events, all against a backdrop of picturesque greenery.

The 2018 edition of the festival, which is now in its ninth year, has the theme of Alchemy – and attendees are encouraged to interpret what Alchemy means to them, be it through their mindset, energy, costume or ideas.

Tickets for Body&Soul are on sale via Ticketbooth. Tier 2 is priced at €169 and Tier 3 will be €195. Sunday only tickets will be available from mid-March for €70.

Campervan passes are currently on sale here for €60, bus tickets will be available shortly. A separate ticket to the event is also required.