Unknown Mortal Orchestra
By Michael Mueller
Singer and guitarist Ruban Nielson founded experimental trio Unknown Mortal Orchestra out of the ashes of New Zealand group The Mint Chicks. The band’s self-titled 2011 debut earned an 8.1 from indie bible Pitchfork and the group has gone on to receive a barrage of critical acclaim for their psychedelic brand of pop and rock.
After leaving behind their lo-fi roots on their second album II (2013, Jagjaguwar), winner of Best Alternative Album at the New Zealand Music Awards, the band have once again impressed with their February release, Multi-Love, widely considered to be their best album yet. On tour and selling out dates across North America and Europe, the band make a stop in Barcelona and Madrid on two dates organized by Primavera Sound before heading to Australia and New Zealand later this year.