Discover the Alt-Rock Band's Emotional Odyssey in Their 7th Single—A Track That Makes a Statement
In a year that's already been a whirlwind of creativity, for the trio, alt-rock band mUmbo has dropped their 7th single and 3rd release since 2022, "Red Balloons." With a profile that's skyrocketing due to international radio play and rave reviews in the indie music press, mUmbo is a band that's clearly on the ascent. But it's not just about the numbers or the accolades; it's about the music—music that the band feels is closer than ever to capturing their authentic sound.
A Sonic Balloon of Hope and Struggle
There is more to the existence of "Red Balloons" than its title. It's a track that's as multifaceted as a gemstone. At face value, "Red Balloons' is a song about holding onto hope and optimism. But as you dig a little deeper, you'll find a band that's grappling with its own identity whilst striving to create something that's uniquely theirs. They call this concept 'mUmbo music'. If this single is anything to go by, it's a sound that's well worth the wait.
The Dreamlike Visuals: A Nod to Maya Deren
The accompanying video, crafted by filmmaker Kelli Watson and shot in Hertfordshire, England, adds another layer of complexity to the track. Borrowing its concept from Maya Deren’s 1940s film 'Meshes of the Afternoon,' the video encapsulates a dreamlike, surreal longing for release, a sentiment that's mirrored sonically in "Red Balloons."
Meet the Band: A Melting Pot of Musical Influences
Comprising Doug MacGowan on electric and acoustic guitars and bass, Emma Semple on vocals, viola, and violin, and Antonio Dale on drums and percussion, mUmbo is a band that thrives on diversity. Their influences range from soft rock and dream pop to indie folk, blues rock, and jazz, drawing inspiration from artists like Cocteau Twins, Mazzy Star, and Ry Cooder. Formed just before the first UK lockdown in 2020, the band has managed to create a buzz despite the challenges faced, and going on to receive radio play across the globe.
The Reviews Speak for Themselves
The band has been lauded for their ability to connect with audiences on a personal level. As Nicole Mendes from The Other Side Reviews puts it, "Sincere, sentimental, honest and complex, mUmbo connects with audiences on a more personal level." Plastic Magazine praises their unique identity, stating, "The band’s ability to fuse diverse musical influences into a cohesive and captivating sound sets them apart."
A New Creative Chapter
"Our last single, 'Fringe Benefits,' marked the end of an intense period of writing and recording. After a much-needed summer break, this new single heralds a new creative period for us, with several more singles to come after this one," say Doug MacGowan and Emma Semple.
So, if you're in the mood for some folk-rock, indie folk, or even some dreamy guitar vibes, give "Red Balloons" a merry stream as this is a track that promises not just an auditory delight but also an emotional journey, one that's likely to resonate whether you're an artist, a dreamer, or just someone in search of their own red balloon.
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