In the past 3-4 years, one of the most popular sounds in the indie space is lo-fi. Which is a common way to describe indie rock that was recorded with an intentional ‘dirty’ sound. While some have cringed at the intentional muddy sound of bands like Times New Viking and Sleigh Bells, a good group of others have flocked to it and championed it for it’s charm. I’m not afraid to say I have been mostly on the side of those who cringed early on, the first Times New Viking album and early Wavvess recordings made me wish the bands had taken the time to make their music easier to digest.

I will say though, whether it’s my own tastes evolving or the latest batch of album within the lo-fi movement becoming more accessible, I think I’m on board now. Unknown Mortal Orchestra are certainly a part of the latest wave, releasing their debut album earlier this week on Fat Possum Records. The album is a soulful and sometimes psychedelic experience, and features former Mint Chicks guitarist Ruban Nielson, who can be credited with forming UMO. I’ve seen the album described as Sleigh Bells minus the distortion, and I can see that being a nice gateway, but the 70′s leanings of UMO, at least in the way the album was recorded, make them more unique than that description.

And maybe more importantly, I’ve heard these guys are alot of fun live, and we get to have that experience here in Cincinnati in a couple weeks. Unknown Mortal Orchestra (who are also slated for a MPMF appearance) will be at MOTR on July 15th for what should be a great night.

Yourstru.ly Presents: UMO “How Can You Luv Me” from Yours Truly on Vimeo.

Unknown Mortal Orchestra – “Little Blu House” by fatpossum