Unknown Mortal Orchestra (also known as UMO) is a New Zealand psychedelic rock band from Auckland and now based in Portland, Oregon.

After forming The Mint Chicks in South Auckland and experiencing success with them, Ruban Nielson moved to the United States in 2007.

[2][3] Through their reposting and attempts to hunt down the creator,[4] Nielson eventually claimed the track as Unknown Mortal Orchestra's.

Pitchfork gave the album an 8.1, describing that with "an expert use of space rare for such a lo-fi record, UMO manages a unique immersive and psychedelic quality without relying on the usual array of bong-ripping effects.

[7] Although the nominated Unknown Mortal Orchestra did not win Best Alternative Album, Nielson took home the title of Best Male Artist at the 47th annual Vodafone New Zealand Music Awards.

Clash Music gave the album a 9 out of 10, saying "from opener 'From The Sun', which recalls George Harrison-psychedelia, to the tender Family Stone shuffle of the closing of 'Secret Xtians', 'II' displays both a glowing warmth in its production and a deft use of space that illuminate Nielson's superbly crafted compositions.

[13] Unknown Mortal Orchestra consistently sold out shows in both Europe and in North America, and as a result of their success on the road they announced in early April that they would extend their tour through the end of 2013.

[citation needed] On 25 February 2013, Unknown Mortal Orchestra made their American television debut, performing "So Good At Being in Trouble" on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon.

[20] The band's fourth studio album, Sex & Food, was released on 6 April 2018, garnering a lot of praise from critics.

In a review in Reflektor Magazine, the following was said: "The consistent thread through the UMO catalog remains strong; frontman Ruban Nielson spins a soulful vocal over a backdrop of melodically rich music and slick rhythm.

This album builds on many of the synthesizers and sampled drum textures introduced on the previous breakout LP Multi-Love in 2015, but offers a different ride.

Following the release, the band set out on a global tour with stops in North America, Europe, UK, Asia, New Zealand and Australia, with many sold out dates.

On 25 October 2022, the band announced a 2023 US/UK tour in support of a forthcoming double album and released the single "I Killed Captain Cook".