mUmbo – Red Balloons (2023)
Living in a world of uncertainty when negativity and hopelessness seem to arise on a daily basis, we all need something positive and hopeful to cling to; enter mUmbo. When we left the UK and Italy-based trio, they shared a message of “hope and personal freedom within a society that is increasingly repressive” in ‘Fringe Benefits’. Before ‘Fringe Benefits’, ‘Sky Is Blue’ was a poetic tune celebrating escapism and new beginnings. Doug MacGowan (guitars, banjo and bass), Emma Semple (vocals, violin and viola), and Antonio Dale (drums) return once again with their optimistic track ‘Red Balloons’.
Following their well-received single ‘Fringe Benefits’, ‘Red Balloons’ is the first release after a “much-needed summer break” and marks an evolution in the mUmbo sound. Recorded in home studios by the band – Semple and MacGowen in the UK with Dale in Italy – ‘Red Ballons’ retains the band’s signature rock sound; however, a sliver of darker alternative pop weaves through the melody. Semple’s vocals are rich and warm but with an eeriness belying her dulcet tones.
Joined by the steady, simplistic drums, guitars and banjo, you are set adrift on a foggy sonic river with a carefree attitude. Interestingly, just as ‘Red Ballons’ has laidback sentiments, the lilt of something sinister shimmers along. This is not to say ‘Red Balloons’ is sinister in its nature; rather, the melody represents society’s clinging oppression with a brighter side flitting across. mUmbo lifts you from the darkness to a higher level of calm as Semple’s strings lead you off to the light at the end of the tunnel.
“Amongst other things, the song is about holding onto hope and optimism in the face of frequent struggle and discouragement, which is so often the artistic life.” – mUmbo on ‘Red Balloons’
In addition to the single, mUmbo released an official music video for their single ‘Red Balloons’. You can view the video below or via their YouTube channel. Please note: this video uses effects that can trigger seizures in people with photosensitive epilepsy.
VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED
Find out more about mUmbo on their official website, Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
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