Unknown Mortal Orchestra

I have to admit, I only found this band while looking through the "You might like" suggestions. The unusual band name and cover photo caught my attention, so I decided to give the sound samples a listen. At first, I wasn't sure what to think of it, but the more I listened, the more I liked what I heard. There is a definite '70's vibe to the songs, but they don't sound dated. It's kind of a modern twist on the '70's sound. The lo-fi sound may annoy some, but I like it...it's kind of like you discovered a long-lost '70's demo album. The sound may intentionally be lo-fi, but the songs are well-crafted and fun to listen to. The songs have a feel-good vibe to them, but they make you feel good without being too sugary-sweet. I look forward to hearing more from these guys, in the future!

Unknown Mortal Orchestra is like many new bands in that they seem to be recreating some fictional band in the past, in this case, a garage band from the 70's. But unlike many bands they do it in an otherwise original way. The melodies are long and novel, the vocals are charismatic and the songs are not too complex or too boring. vocals and drums always have a muddy "lo-fi" sound to them. The competent guitar work is crisp and wavering, which, combined with the flowery ornate riffs gives the record a hot glistening feel. The bass is quiet and sometimes hard to hear in keeping with the lo-fi theme, but if you crank up the volume you can feel it in the back as solid part of the music. The songs have an over all 70's pop/soul feel to them, but on closer inspection, the melodies and structure are modern and original. overall the album has consistent songwriting, no songs that sound too similar, no break from the lo-fi aesthetic, no dead spots, and no sad boring songs. the best part is that, even though this album is consistently interesting to listen to, it manages to also create a relaxed atmosphere within each song, not rushing anything. In conclusion, if you can get on board with the fidelity, you will not be bored or saddened by any of the songs, and will likely get parts stuck in your head.

likeit

Awesome band, awesome music. Bought for my daughter and ended up loving it myself. Now we both listen to it. Arived promptly and in great condition. Thanks!

After seeing UMO in Pittsburgh, I went on the hunt for their CD. When I found that it was available for pre-order, I ordered it immediately. The CD did not disappoint. Every song was just as I remembered it live: mind-blowing. If you only want to sample a few songs before buying the album, try "Bicycle", "Jello and Juggernauts" (my personal fav), and "FFunny Ffriends" This is UMO's first release and keep in mind that they are still underground so the quality isn't 100% but the musicianship makes up for it. Also, their sound is quite abstract and distorted in the first place so thats something to think about before you write the album off. Bottom line: buy it. Support incredible and original music while also making your collection a bit cooler in the process.

I very much like this band and it makes me happy to have physical copies of their music.

Awesome album from an awesome group!

Writing this review as I listen to this masterpiece... front to back this LP rocks! It's my first UMO record but it won't be the last.

You know you can't argue about taste but once in a while an album is released which really makes me happy. 'Just' 9 songs but a serious must have catchy tunes record.

Really love this album. I first listened to II so decided to get this album too and I'm really happy with it. Just as good as the second and I'm in love with UMO.

Having watched their gigs in China, I feel the inner power in their music, and also the beauty of chorus.

Ich mag diesen verspielten kindlichen Touch, der dem ganzen anhaftet. Dann ist da noch diese komische Brücke zwischen Punk, experimenteller Musik und Pop im Song "Nerv Damage!", den ich auch nicht aufhören kann aufzusaugen und der zudem stellvertretend für die Sympathie ist, an der ich und diese Band auf einander treffen. Wenn jedes Album eine Droge wäre, würde ich dieses Album wohl als einen meiner positivsten Trips bezeichnen. Wer Ween oder ähnlich freihe und musikalisch offene Bands zu schätzen weiß, der macht hier bei weitem nichts falsch.

Properly packaged and sealed. Excellent pressing of a great debut album.