Exploring the Duality of Ruban Nielson and Unknown Mortal Orchestra
A Conductor of Contrasts
For over fifteen years, Ruban Nielson, the visionary behind Unknown Mortal Orchestra (UMO), has embodied a fascinating dichotomy. On one hand, he is a masterful pop synthesist, known for his contributions to the indie streamcore genre. On the other, he is a restless explorer, drawn to spontaneous musical journeys that eschew mainstream trends and algorithms.
The Live Experience and the IC Album Series
This tension between pop sensibility and exploratory spirit is most evident in UMO’s live performances. Here, concise three-minute songs often morph into expansive seven-minute psychedelic voyages. This improvisational approach finds its most pronounced expression in the IC (Improvisation/Collaboration) album series, initiated in 2018. The series aims to delve deeper into uncharted musical territories, both figuratively and literally, by capturing extended jam sessions in diverse cities with local musicians.
From Hanoi to Bogotá: A Musical Evolution
The first entry in the IC series, Hanoi, prominently featured Nielson’s virtuoso guitar work, channeling the spirit of Jimi Hendrix. However, the second installment, recorded in Bogotá, Colombia, presents a more comprehensive view of UMO’s artistic range. This album brings together familiar collaborators—drummer Kody, saxophonist Chris, and bassist Jacob Portrait—while also introducing new talents like keyboardist Christian Li and percussionist Jose David Infante.
Shifting Focus: A New Musical Dynamic
Notably absent from this collection is Nielson’s singing voice, as well as his signature guitar solos. Instead, the album shifts focus towards the prowess of Li and the elder Nielson, showcasing their musicianship. While Hanoi leaned towards jazzy improvisation, Bogotá anchors itself in a robust foundation of gritty grooves and DIY beats reminiscent of basement clubs.
Channeling the Vibrancy of Bogotá
Despite Unknown Mortal Orchestra’s evolution from its home-recording roots, their music has often retained an intimate, hermetic quality. In contrast, Bogotá captures the vibrant energy of the city outside the studio, immersing listeners in the electric ambiance of urban nightlife. The album vividly reflects the excitement of exploring a new city as the bars fill with lively patrons, and the streets become illuminated with a kaleidoscope of lights.
The Opening Track: A Journey Begins
The eleven-minute opener, “Earth 1,” swiftly plunges the listener into this vibrant atmosphere. With an unyielding percussive beat and a circular flute motif reminiscent of a traffic whistle, the track sets the stage for Li’s electric piano work. After four minutes of cosmic exploration, Li introduces a repeating riff that seamlessly integrates into the main groove, transitioning the song from frenetic energy to a state of serene bliss.
Conclusion
Ruban Nielson’s journey with Unknown Mortal Orchestra exemplifies the ongoing struggle between commercial appeal and artistic exploration. As UMO continues to evolve, the IC series highlights the band’s ability to adapt and embrace new influences, while staying true to their core identity. With the release of Bogotá, listeners are invited to experience a rich tapestry of sound that transcends geographical boundaries and celebrates the spirit of collaboration.
FAQs
What is the IC album series by Unknown Mortal Orchestra?
The IC album series stands for Improvisation/Collaboration and was launched in 2018 to explore extended instrumental jam sessions with local musicians in various cities.
How does the Bogotá album differ from the Hanoi album?
While Hanoi focused on Ruban Nielson’s guitar work, Bogotá offers a broader representation of the band’s capabilities, emphasizing the contributions of other musicians and a stronger rhythmic foundation.
What themes are explored in the Bogotá album?
The album captures the vibrant energy of urban nightlife, reflecting the excitement of exploring new cities and the communal experience of music in lively environments.
