Name: II (10th Anniversary Edition)
Brand: Unknown Mortal Orchestra

Bonus disc

Bonus disc: No

Catalogue number

JAG232DLX

Colour

Silver

Colour details

Metallic Silver

Discogs ID

Format multiplier

Download code

Download code: No

Rough Trade Exclusive

Rough Trade Exclusive: No

Extended format

Extended format: No

Format detail

Format Music GB

Limited edition

Release date

2023-11-17

Signed copies

Signed copies: No

Supplier GB

PIAS

Tax rate GB

Standard:20

UPC / Barcode

617308056426

Total Cap

Silver LP

Artist

Unknown Mortal Orchestra

Genre GB

Alternative / Modern

Label GB

Jagjaguwar

Restored classics, rare finds, and sought-after releases. Whether you're a vinyl enthusiast or a tape collector, we have something for everyone.

Reissues

Unknown Mortal Orchestra is an Indie Garage Psychedelic Rock band from Auckland, New Zealand. Founded in 2010, they have gained a loyal following with their unique sound and captivating performances.
With influences ranging from 60s psychedelia to modern indie rock, Unknown Mortal Orchestra has created a distinct musical style that sets them apart from other bands in the genre. Their music combines catchy melodies, intricate guitar work, and introspective lyrics to create a truly immersive listening experience.
Since their formation, Unknown Mortal Orchestra has released several critically acclaimed albums and toured extensively around the world. Their live shows are known for their energy and passion, leaving audiences wanting more.

Jagjaguwar is an American independent label based in Bloomington, IN. Founded in Charlottesville, VA in 1996 by Darius Van Arman, the label was invited to relocate to Bloomington by Jason Noble of Rodan. Darius followed this invitation in 1999 and has since built a reputation for releasing exceptional music.
With a focus on promoting talented artists across various genres, Jagjaguwar has become known for its diverse roster and commitment to supporting independent music. The label's catalog includes releases from acclaimed acts such as Bon Iver, Angel Olsen, Sharon Van Etten, and Unknown Mortal Orchestra.
As a trusted name in the industry, Jagjaguwar continues to champion innovative and boundary-pushing music. With their dedication to quality and artistic integrity, they have established themselves as a go-to destination for music lovers seeking unique sounds and fresh perspectives.

Unknown Mortal Orchestra’s breakthrough second album is getting an exciting expanded edition with the Blue EP and two b-sides for a double-LP collection.

Unknown Mortal Orchestra came to life in basements and bedrooms, the musical vision of Portlander-via-New Zealand Ruban Nielson that fused guitar-god riffs, choppy percussion, soul and funk. II, the sophomore album from UMO, emerged in an era rampant hedonism and isolationism and became the blueprint for everything Nielson has become renowned for. It was, and is, the solidification of Unknown Mortal Orchestra as an endlessly intriguing, brave and addictive band. Ten years on, it’s back with an expanded edition.&nbsp;

Written during a punishing, debauched touring schedule during which Nielson feared for both his sanity and health, II illustrates the emotional turmoil of life on the road, painting surrealist, cartoonish portraits of loneliness, love and despair. These conflicting themes are evident immediately; on the album’s sleeve is an unnerving image of Janet Farrar, the famous British witch, Wiccan, author and teacher of witchcraft. The chilling refrain of opener “Into The Sun” sees Nielson deliver the line “Isolation can put a gun in your hand,” softly, his words starkly intelligible above a warm, slow-burning melody that quickly brands itself onto your brain. His playful imagery (“I’m so lonely I’ve gotta eat my popcorn all alone”) mirrors the melody, before a solo that borders on psychotropic ends II‘s introduction. UMO is unafraid to dig deeper than the rest, their intoxicating, opiate groove bringing rock’n’roll’s exaggerated myths to life. And as it unfolds, II does find Nielson reenergized. “One At A Time” and “Faded In The Morning” boast dizzying choruses and instrumentals; these crusty hunks could have been excavated from a lost 1960s treasure trove. “Monki” unravels over seven minutes like the yarn from a stoner’s cardigan with an eye-frying pattern. “Dawn” is a minute of disconcerting noise that stands out between the nooks and crannies of the choruses, guitar solos, groove-heavy bass and drums that were recorded live by newly-recruited drummer Greg Rogove and Kody Nielson in a move away from the electronic percussion employed on album one. II closes with “Secret Xtians,” a tender observational puzzle that fizzes to a satisfied end.

In celebration of the album’s 10th anniversary Nielson’s complete collection from the II era is finally available in one compilation, and features the five acoustic tracks from the Blue EP as well as two additional B-sides. Unknown Mortal Orchestra was once Nielson’s closeted concern. With an album that uses his singular musical imagination and extraordinary talent to parade his emotions with unyielding honesty, it is now a fully realized band operating at the peak of its powers ten years on.

II (10th Anniversary Edition)

Music GB

Discover II (10th Anniversary Edition) by Unknown Mortal Orchestra. Expanded double-LP collection with Blue EP and two b-sides. Label: Jagjaguwar.