Unknown Mortal Orchestra

Ruban Nielson is the man behind the intriguing Unknown Mortal Orchestra. The last album of the group, ‘’Multi Love’’, explored the topic of Nielson’s polyamorous relationship. These time, we will not try to inquiry about his romantic life. In stead, let’s talk a bit about mortality, philosophy reads and seismic meetings between humans. If you want to know more- just come to Unknown Mortal Orchestra’s concert the 10th of September, at Debaser Strand in Stockholm.

 

 

 

 

I’d like to know more about the aspect of mortality, present both in the name of your band and in many of your interviews.

It’s present in everybody’s life. Unless we cure death, which would change the nature of all of that. Maybe then people would become super cautious, because they’re risking an infinite life when they go skydiving or whatever.

After touring with your previous album, you took a long break to concentrate on ”Multi- Love”. Now, we’re in the middle of the summer-festivals’ season. How do you keep the balance between the temptations of the touring and keeping your family life and creating just for yourself?

It’s a crazy balance to try to maintain. Luckily it’s a balance between three really beautiful states.

I know you are a big philosophy reader. What book are you reading now while you’re touring and what would you recommend?

I’ve been reading “Beneath the Underdog” which is Charles Mingus’ autobiography. I read it when I was in high school and it had a big impact on my young mind. I’m revisiting it to see just how big that impact was. I’m also reading “I Want to Take You Higher” which is about Sly and the Family Stone. So far so good. Another one is ‘’A People’s History of the United States’’ by Howard Zinn and boy is it brutal.

I recently finished “Mo Meta Blues” By Questlove. Its a page turner. Very recommendable.

 

 

You come from New Zealand, a place known for its magnificent nature, and right now live in Portland- a city that has become synonymous with the definition of an urban, modern, ”hipster” lifestyle. How do you find yourself in these two different environments ?

Portland isn’t that different from New Zealand actually. Its a very green city, surrounded by mountains and rivers. I’m not sure how rural and urban environments have shaped my music. I think its more influenced by people. Sometimes meeting a person is like a seismic event that changes you forever.

Your newest album has brought a lot of surprises in terms of more disco-like tone. What new sounds are you exploring right now and where are you heading in your future compositions?

I’m not sure but I’ve been listening to Hawaiian music a lot. Looking for information and sounds that resonate in some way. Let’s see how that’ll effect things.

 

 

Credits:

Words by Weronika Pérez Borjas 

Photography by Clara Uddman

Special thanks too: Södra Teatern & Border Music