Sophomore full length from Unknown Mortal Orchestra. II builds on the lo-fi rock aesthetic established on 2011’s self-titled debut, but with a pumped up dose of psychedelia. The Portland-based (via New Zealand) band does an excellent job fusing psych and soul, with a bit of vintage pop (hints of the Beatles here and there) throughout the album’s 10 tracks, with frontman Ruban Nielson nailing it on vocals as well as guitar solos. Standouts include “Swim And Sleep,” “One At A Time,” “No Need For A Leader,” “Secret Xtians” and “Faded In The Morning.” The album really lends itself to repeat listens… and only gets better over time.
- black vinyl pressing
- music label: Jagjaguwar 2013