Embracing a fervently creative period since the onset of 2022, the alt-rock ensemble mUmbo introduces their seventh single and third release of the year, “Red Balloons.” This release solidifies their meteoric rise, supported by extensive international radio play and laudatory reviews within the indie music circuit.
The band sees “Red Balloons” as a significant step towards establishing their signature sound, the embodiment of what they proudly dub as ‘mUmbo music.’ The song’s thematic essence revolves around the resilient notion of clutching onto hope and optimism—symbolized by red balloons—in the face of relentless artistic struggles and discouragement, a prevailing sentiment in the band’s creative journey.
Comprising the trio are Doug MacGowan, handling electric and acoustic guitars as well as bass, Emma Semple, the vocal powerhouse also proficient in viola and violin, and Antonio Dale, the rhythmic heartbeat on drums and percussion.
Their musical union emerged from diverse musical backgrounds, unified by a shared passion for unconventional exploration and venturing beyond musical norms.
Influences that shape mUmbo’s eclectic soundscape encompass a wide spectrum, drawing from soft rock, dream pop, indie folk, blues rock, and jazz. The roster of cherished artists includes Cocteau Twins, Mazzy Star, Goldfrapp, Ry Cooder, Mark Knopfler, Johnny Marr, and Billie Holiday.
Despite their inception mere months before the UK’s initial lockdown in 2020, mUmbo is now gearing up to assemble an extended live band for future performances, transcending geographical barriers. Their releases have garnered substantial radio play across multiple countries, including the UK, Ireland, the US, Canada, Germany, Denmark, France, Mexico, New Zealand, and Hong Kong.
Beyond their musical prowess, the band shares the humorous plight of collaborating across different countries, entailing inevitable language-barrier-laden texts exchanged as they craft their tracks remotely.
Previously, mUmbo received accolades from various reviewers, highlighting their sincerity, captivating fusion of musical influences, and an innate ability to craft refined and enthralling music.
“Red Balloons” stands as a testament to the band’s ever-evolving pursuit of their unique musical identity, conceived and recorded in home studios spanning the UK and Italy, infusing their individual contributions into a cohesive collective creation.
The track, alongside their prior single ‘Fringe Benefits,’ denotes the conclusion of an intense creative phase and the dawn of a new chapter. After a rejuvenating summer break, ‘Red Balloons’ signals the commencement of an exciting creative resurgence, promising more singles in the offing.
With a mesmerizing video directed by Kelli Watson, shot in Hertfordshire, England, channeling the surreal ambiance of Maya Deren’s ‘Meshes of the Afternoon,’ ‘Red Balloons’ not only captivates sonically but visually, painting a dreamlike, yearning picture echoing the song’s essence.
For mUmbo, ‘Red Balloons’ doesn’t just mark a release; it embodies a resilient spirit, encapsulating the band’s pursuit of their unique sonic identity while mirroring the perpetual struggle and optimism within the artistic life.
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