Unknown Mortal Orchestra Release New Album 'Multi-Love'

 

If you ever thought the creations of Mr Ruban Nielson (genius brains behind Unknown Mortal Orchestra) would halt at lo-fi psychedelic rock, you were severely mistaken. All hands in the air to praise this man for his fresh and unique push into the semi-mainstream music scene, where he brings with him little magical doses of all things possible while still keeping his trademark UMO roots with his love for 60’s psychedelia, guitar shredding and vintage production soundscapes.

On a first listen, Multi-Love is appealing to the ears. It combines a ton of expert production skills, sassy bass-lines, wonderful guitar melodies (as per), fascinating lyrics and beautifully sung vocals, new additions of dream-like synths, breaks with a horn (played by Nielson’s father), and sprinkles of straight up pop music. It’s a treat, through and through.

Nielson makes it no secret that the album in its entirety is about his wife and the love triangle they had found themselves in with another woman. This gives for a unique perspective on these upbeat poppy songs as you boogie around your room to them, when Nielson’s highs and lows are expressed through his enchanting voice.

At some points you find all the pop buried deep in the soulful 70’s smooth-as-chocolate veins, that run throughout the album. But, they weave in and out of the plethora of chapters that are each song, surprising you when you least expect it. You can’t help but admire the diversity of what Nielson comes up with. He’s a master of a catchy melody, evident in “Can’t Keep Checking My Phone” and “Multi-Love”, both of which are the best kind of pop tracks you can find. There are so many multi-dimensional universes to trip through on this album, you feel as if you’ve got wings, as you fly through this Multi-Love land.

Needless to say, this album is by far the most explorative and the most intriguing. Nielson deserves all the credit possible for the wonder of this masterpiece. At times like these, I feel it’s an exciting time for music, as there are still insanely unhinged brains pulling old synths apart in a basement and fucking around with feedback, production styles and singing about loving two women at the same time.

Kudos to another talented musician who doesn’t follow any rules; he’s just himself, and that’s why this album is genuine in its purest beauty.

Words by
Jo Wells Multi-Love is now available to order
via this link released on Jajaguwar Records.

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