Unknown Mortal Orchestra

It's hard to believe all the wonderful sounds on Unknown Mortal Orchestra's 2011 debut came from just three dudes. It's harder still to believe that they were able to flawlessly replicate those spacey jams live. Singer-guitarist Ruban Nielson said little during their short set, letting his fingers do the talking as they noodled away on the frets of his guitar. UMO come across like a funkier, non-retro-leaning Tame Impala shot into the atmosphere, with drum and bass grooves forming the basis for their songs. Neilson's falsetto was somewhat lost in the mix, but it's never really been the band's focal point. Their shuffling tunes agreed with the packed and sweaty crowd who bopped along with each selection, but seemed most impressed by oddball pop number "Ffunny Ffriends." While the trio spent a bit too long between songs ensuring everything was in its right place, Unknown Mortal Orchestra certainly stood out thanks to their unique take on familiar terrain.