When you're willing to suffer for your art

[@Middle8]

I've made an "Intro to Unknown Mortal Orchestra" Spotify playlist for those who are new to the band. Search 'themiddleocho' or follow the link in the description. Thanks for watching!

[@kalebgordon8459]

I checked out your main playlist and we have extremely similar taste in music. Love the videos!

[@SQUlD13]

Been dying for you to do an essay ever since I saw your comment on "Everyone Acts Crazy Nowadays" - was not disappointed, quality stuff!

[@evannewman8381]

I can't believe he started guitar at 19. He's one of my favorite musicians ever. I'm 23 and just started learning this gives me hope that I can make art like him someday

[@hereforthemusic4975]

Bruh I have been overthinking music for 5 years, cuz everytime I begin something, I wanna be good at it and that pressure ruins the fun and it ends up being a mess. Then I learnt in interviews how much shit music artists write before they make good stuff and that's how they end up with piles of demos. And also accepted that even if all the music I ever will make will be shit, made me feel free and started playing freely and ironically is only time I'm getting somewhere, having fun and by fucking around

[@dom-ru5cc]

It’s now about how long you’ve been playing, but how you spent that time. If you are going hard every single day that you can, you’re going to see growth that reflect it. If you’re playing for some minor entertainment, that will also reflect in your growth. If you want it bad, go as hard as you can and you will get it.

[@bigaleinstein4639]

U got plenty of time doggy dog. That fact kinda surprised me too

[@davidjackson4843]

Don't be discourage. I doubt very much Rueban started playing guitar at 19. I've seen pictures of him as child playing guitar. And I noticed that he still holds the guitar exactly the same way.

[@StricklandPropane3]

@@davidjackson4843pictures as a child doesn’t mean anything 😂 i’ll believe the word from Rueban himself on when he started playing 👍

[@peaceMAN32323]

I asked Ruban a question about the concept of "making it" in art during their Reddit AMA, and he gave me a brilliant answer about how none of that shit matters. Do what you love doing, and don't stop. Super awesome guy, can't wait to see him keep evolving and pushing his sound.

[@frustrabe]

i would love to read that thread! can you maybe link it here please?

[@logan4x6]

Very, very, very underrated band. I will never forget discovering UMO and their debut album in the midst of my depressed, angsty teen days from sifting through random albums based on their covers on Spotify. That album cover really intrigued me, and I remember “Ffunny Ffriends” instantly pulling me in, along with every other song piquing my interest. Such great music...

[@GameScoreFanfare]

I thought UMO couldn't top Multi-Love as a song... but then Hunnybee happened.

[@titolounge6101]

Game Score Fanfare I never really saw the appeal of multi-Love

[@rh2181]

I like Multi-Love more. Way more detailled and epic. Goes for most of the new album unfortunately..

[@GameScoreFanfare]

It took me a little to understand it. Knowing its context helped, and I think it has my favourite opening line for an album ever: "Multi-Love, checked into my heart and trashed it like a hotel room." And that ridiculous drum flourish. The Song Exploder episode for it is really great, if you haven't listened to that.

[@enriquejose17]

thought i was the only one going insane for hunnybee

[@jakescourage]

bro am going crazy for that hunnybee

[@malikfernandez1990]

UMO is such a powerful creator. He has been a soundtrack to much of my life and for that no matter what he produces I will support him.

[@Babadoo722]

Their newest album is so incredibly good and catchy I love it

[@StolenAlias]

Layla and Nadja are some of the best songs I’ve ever heard.

[@jacobwhitlock4825]

I love how the plane goes the long way from New Zealand to Portland. Such a Ruban thing to do.

[@g00bins]

Seriously awesome video, I only recently started listening to Unknown Mortal Orchestra and this really puts so much more meaning behind the music.

[@XxBomerdudexX]

5:57 That transition was SICK!! Keep it up dude, I'm definitely subscribing.

[@liamrickard4550]

I've lived down the street from Ruben and his family for my while life and he is one of the most chill guys i've ever met, love him and his music.

[@JayJaymusic]

UMO has been the soundtrack of my life for months, and now I found this amazing video! Thanks!

[@meggy0]

II will always be my favorite album. From the Sun my favorite track. I remember hearing it for the first time. I had fallen into a bad depression, had shut out a lot of people and was hardly sleeping and not functioning. My friend knew I liked the Mint Chicks and recommended UMO's latest album (II at the time) . I heard this song and it was someone describing everything I was going through in the most beautiful way. I was addicted to that song for months. I've never had an experience like that with music, and I don't think I will again.

[@onehellofameme6166]

V was my introduction into this band and I love the solo from in the garden regardless of Rubans inspiration to the lyrics of songs his guitar writing is amazing and inspiring to me

[@NolanTrotterMusic]

I wait and check everyday for your videos, I am an aspiring musician and am so inspired by these artists and your work! Keep up the great videos!

[@Middle8]

Thanks!

[@royalsfan7]

I'd never heard of UMO until your video and I added their latest on Google Play. I'm really enjoying it. Thanks for leading me to them and keep up the great work.

[@Middle8]

Thanks, glad I could introduce you to them!

[@eddiehoney7166]

He got a second girlfriend and indulged heavily In drugs for the sake of art... Haha yeah alright me too buddy.

[@dongrace892]

Alright guys I'll take one for the team. Bring me two girlfriends and some drugs.

[@kensmechanicalaffair]

Lol

[@boredgrindmtb8540]

Yeah his wife is really the one we should get a 10 minute piece on. She’s a champ

[@caimanaraujo479]

@@boredgrindmtb8540 champ? She exchanged love letters to another woman without telling him lol

[@solsystem1342]

​@@caimanaraujo479 I don't get this /gen Like, I'm aware people feel threatened by someone else getting closer with their partner(s) but like, why? Yes there should be open communication though you're definitely right about that. They seem to have eventually communicated and worked it out though so I'd say that's a success relationship wise.

[@drewbocop]

Your content is so good. And you cover so many of my favorite bands/people. Keep up the great work!!

[@Middle8]

Thanks!

[@astonia131]

I saw UMO headline Wondergarden in Auckland on NYE 2018. It was a festival Ruban helped set up with a completely NZ lineup including Leisure, Ruby Suns, SWIDT and Chelsea Jade. Watching fireworks off the SkyTower whilst he played Ur Life One Night is seared into my head forever. Amazing moment

[@WolfataDoor]

Definitely my favorite band at the moment, has been since their release of II. You did them justice, good work.

[@Middle8]

Thanks a lot

[@CastVooDoo]

Faded in the morning is about being really faded, high. He says in an interview that the laughs in the songs is his songs because his son came down to the basement and laughing because he was really high

[@Estayben]

Lmao “it’s about being tired from being up all night”

[@bzporto]

Just found your channel and I'm soooo delighted. I neeeeed new videos, please

[@zimmerdaon4151]

I've been waiting for someone to make this video! Thank you! It was very well made, very fluent. I loved it!

[@Middle8]

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed.

[@kasares17]

Hey man this video was great. The editing, your voice and tone, the info, the analysis the amount of time put into each album. This was very high level, thank you! Keep doing more of these would love to see you analyze more artists!

[@Middle8]

Thanks that means a lot! Will do, more stuff coming soon!

[@jgotdreams]

Would love a follow up to this since V came out, seems like his records have gotten softer & more gentle with time. I wonder if that's intentional or just a reflection of how Ruben has evolved over the years.

[@onairda91]

Congratulations on your amazing channel! I stumbled upon it by accident, but I am really happy that I did. I hope you keep on making awesome videos!

[@thomasperkins4895]

excellent stuff, love knowing every little bit about this band. Ruban Nielsen is a true artist

[@aarond9563]

Oh my gosh! This was actually so insightful! This has made me love the band so much more. This video was so comprehensive.

[@ThatOneGuy7550]

I swear, underrated channel, dude! Need more of this insightful video essays in the indie-music scene. Can't wait for more content, man!

[@fraire711]

When I heard ministry of alienation live I was transported to a different world. It’s was such a surreal experience. I wish I could see them live again.

[@LloydMolefe]

Love this mini documentary ❤️

[@breajones4012]

These videos are like my Discovery Weekly! Keep making great vids dude! This is the only way I’m introduced to great, new music!

[@Middle8]

Will do and glad I could show you some great tunes

[@choggerboom]

Thank you so much for this, seriously. Incredibly well done. I've been binging UMO for months and this is such a well done documentation to fit my hunger to learn more. Beautiful job.

[@Middle8]

No problem and awesome, thanks for watching!

[@choggerboom]

Middle 8 of course man, it's always an instant view and like from me when it comes to your content. Helps that you have similar tastes when dissecting the sounds and scapes of psychedelic rock. You actually put me on to king gizzard, a band I had distanced myself from due to their lengthy discography and not knowing where to start. You deserve all the success that is coming. 🤘 keep it up.

[@brilliantroads]

These videos keep being so nice with all the facts about these artists. Keep it going Middle!

[@Middle8]

Thanks, will do!

[@StanislovasRiska]

Yet another amazing video! Even though i don't always manage to get into the music that you make videos about, i still find them really interestin' and of high quality

[@burgessurgessurgesofknowle2937]

Excellent video! Thanks for posting. Love UMO!

[@UndeadGary]

Oh my god. I watched video essays on KZbin forever now on movies, T.V shows, books, comics, etc. But for some reason I never thought to check out the music scene and my god if this isn't great. Currently binging all your videos man. Thanks for the great content!

[@Middle8]

Glad you're enjoying!

[@UndeadGary]

@@Middle8 Already checked out most of your videos and they were all superb! Also you got me hooked on King Gizzard now and I'm working my way through their discography. Great stuff! Looking forward to what you do next!

[@fajarnuralam5463]

Thanks bro, I fell in love at first sight with this band

[@flakesmobile]

I remember seeing this video when it released and really liked what I heard. I listened to UMOs discography and saw them live in may 2018. ive UMO has been one of my all time favorite bands ever since. now 3 years later it shows up in my suggested videos. the last 2 years makes it feel like a bizarre mix of cant believe it was so recent but also feeling like it was ages ago. I have been subscribed when I saw your King Giz video, I cant help it when I see King Giz show up, I gotta watch it. if you havent deleted any videos that means that Ive been a subscriber since the beginning. I always appreciate your takes on music, never know if Ill find my new favorite band. Thanks Middle 8! Im starting to listen to your podcast now too btw! Thanks again for all the interesting stories and helping introduce me to new music!

[@golluba]

Beautifully made video about one of my favorite artists! Subscribed!

[@Middle8]

Welcome!

[@ollier5093]

Dude your videos are amazing, please don't stop.

[@Middle8]

Thanks and I don’t want to!

[@Lightclops]

I always learn so much from your channel! Keep it up man, love the work

[@evanheuer9152]

Great video. It's honestly one of the best music youtube videos I have ever seen, keep up the good work!

[@TotallyRadicalShow]

You and theneedledrop have introduced me to so many amazing bands and individual artists. Thank you.

[@Middle8]

No problem, I love showing people the artists I love

[@lachieedwards1914]

Your videos are such a joy to watch 😁😁

[@Middle8]

Thanks!

[@arturoverdin15]

I've been waiting for your videos maaaan, keep it going!!!

[@Middle8]

Will dooooo

[@graeff]

fantastic piece as always

[@czarczar3549]

Definitely one of my favorite new channels, keep it up man awesome content!!

[@pedromourente1840]

I've just recently started listening to them. I love your videos man, keep up the excellent content

[@Middle8]

Thanks, they’re great

[@soupman1919]

amazing document of the alluring mythos of UMO. great analysis brother love you!

[@Middle8]

Thanks

[@SaschaHusenbeth]

one of your best videos so far, golden content

[@Middle8]

Thanks a lot

[@Old_Vein]

Another amazing video my dude!! Love this band!

[@Middle8]

Thanks man

[@LieLikesMusic]

Dope AF 🤘 Way better research compared to what i did in my video. Thanks for delivering such high quality content.

[@efenestration]

Lie Likes Music I have watched your video yesterday and thought it was a mid8 video. until now. °u°

[@rayhoodoo847]

+hambugga but you're definitely far worse than any of them

[@victoryzy]

You make these characters really come to life dude.. I want to watch movies based on these artists after watching your vids

[@andrewrobertson5508]

I got to see UMO live in San Antonio at the White Rabbit in like 2015, it was an AWESOME show.

[@filthghoul5821]

Dude keep up the good work, youre my favorite content maker on the tube. Love these viddy'oooz

[@ZakRoams]

Dude this video was so well done! Loved it

[@jocywocy442]

Your videos are so dope! Obsessed with all the bands you've been digging into

[@CrazyAbe101]

Hunnybee is hands down my summer anthem right now. Everywhere I play it people Shazam it lol

[@kuronokei7821]

Wow, i love this kind of details. Never getting bored

[@enys.ben-said]

DUDE ! All your videos are about artists that I love and that are not that known !

[@madpad98]

Favourite channel I’ve found in ages

[@thomaspostgate1222]

Amazing video great job I’ve always wondered about UMO and this is so eye opening

[@Middle8]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed!

[@plsarguewithme2665]

Thank you for another beautiful video

[@kevinhofbrau1]

Another amazing video!

[@87LugosiBela]

You done it again my man. Well done! Favorite UMO album, has to be 2. Cheers!

[@Middle8]

Same here, probably encapsulates their sound best. Thanks for watching!

[@StygianSoul2204]

I got into UMO with Multi Love after a 2 year saga of a relationship included a 7 month polyamorous relationship with a secretive cocaine Addict (he was long distance, so it was easy to hide from us). Afterwards the other guy fell into their toxic habits and after another 7 months I finally left. It was the hardest thing I have ever had went through. I lost my friends, family, and had to build those relationships again. And UMO’s multi love helped get me through sad, ptsd ridden nights. No other music hit those feelings. It helped so damn much. Now 8 months later and about to head to college in the fall. Thank you middle 8 for talking about one of the most important bands of my life

[@solsystem1342]

Oh pal that sucks❤ Sending hugs and bugs and wishing you well on your healing journey. Speaking from experience ptsd is a bitch.

[@StygianSoul2204]

@@solsystem1342 thank you so much, it’s been a year since I made that comment. A lot has changed (I left college lol it wasn’t for me). But I’ve grown, healed, and explored the world. Are there still hard nights of loneliness and bad memories? Yea but I’ve made those relationships I lost more secure than ever. I appreciate the love you sent. It’s good to know that there are people who can still empathize with a stranger

[@petestreet7606]

Great video, learnt a lot. Thanks

[@prettyvacant1977]

these videos are fucking awesome. can't wait to see more content from you

[@xjuanp]

Man, that was great. Thank you.

[@roylara751]

I'm supersized this specific video doesn't have the same amount of views as your previous essays! Its amazing and got me listening to Unknown Mortal Orchestra! My favorite album is II.

[@Middle8]

They’re a smaller group plus the new album didn’t perform as well as Multi Love. It kind of came and went. Thanks though! II is my favourite too.

[@dusksimulator]

a video on ariel pink would be cool, he’s got a pretty interesting history!! love your stuff btw :)

[@oskarpost3234]

jas alexa Yes!

[@bacht4799]

Hell yes 🤩

[@lilyfernandez7120]

Yes please!!

[@hannah1850]

Yesss!! I love Ariel Pink

[@PabloRiosCZ]

Yes! On Pom Pom or something

[@griffinballard2405]

God I love this channel so much

[@rafaeulins]

Thats so nice!!! Thanks

[@Amba97]

dude you are incredible! amazing content!

[@SebastianTinajero]

I missed you! That subscription alert made my morning

[@johnnyesleo]

This was perfect... thanks

[@mauzz315]

Middle8, are you spying the bands I'm listening to lately?? Haha Keep up the good work m8

[@abbylosada5316]

your channel is so fucking sick man! Love your videos!

[@Middle8]

Thanks a lot!

[@Ce_ej]

You know I really think II Is the best UMO album. I really really connected with that one for a real long time, but after listening to Sex&Food it’s got me thinking again maybe it’s the best🤔. It’s like a compiled version of everything that has made UMO absolutely dope over the years. Can’t ever deny tho that II is the best.

[@Middle8]

II is still my favourite too. Sex & Food is great, but it’s my least favourite of the 4.

[@comatosecrysis]

Same here! II drew me in straight away

[@gerardocruz4062]

II is just so untouchable for me.. easily one of my favorite albums ever.. such a profoundness that I have yet to find again.

[@samsinclair4805]

Seeing UMO next week, so excited!

[@Middle8]

I’m seeing them in two weeks! Enjoy!

[@honeyjars]

I love ya so much, you’re hitting too many home runs haha, thanks for the vids!

[@Rubberfooted]

Great video about a great artist!!

[@Middle8]

Thanks!

[@faboolean7039]

Great videos. Take your time on them, you don’t have a single bad video yet

[@Middle8]

Thanks, I stress over getting these videos out sometimes so that means a lot.

[@faboolean7039]

Middle 8 no problem, you deserve praise. I discovered your channel through the tame impala video and you introduced to the new pond album. It was my favourite album of last year and I’m very grateful you made me aware of it

[@kalebgordon8459]

Ruban said on Twitter Sex and Food feels like a summary of everything UMO has done

[@braandonsalas4453]

Kaleb Gordon and its high key true 👌🏼

[@UmoInvesting]

Best music page!

[@MMoturi22]

The king returns. Glad you uploaded

[@Middle8]

LOL me too!

[@MMoturi22]

Middle 8 I'm also listening to their self-titled album rn. Thank you for putting me on to amazing music.

[@angi5690]

Thank you, Maxence DF, for sharing Multi-Love in your stories, it's now the first song I can call my favorite And thank you for this video, great work!

[@skyborax5159]

Hey man I would love to see you do an essay on Spotify and other streaming giants and how they’ve changed/worsened the music business I feel like they need exposing. Also another damn good video! Your videos are a huge inspiration to an aspiring musician like me keep it up!

[@Middle8]

Thanks! And I had an idea about something similar to that written down. I should come back to it!

[@snakeorisima]

I believe that latest album on what I know of it right now would be the pain and exhaustion of traveling would be to him/me/ anyone. I have never heard of this band until now but i'm intrigued. I will def give them a listen now.

[@MrOkhamii]

So interesting, it’s make me rediscover this incredible albums, thanks ;)

[@iamalittleboat]

Can't decide if its actually the best or if nostalgia for 2013 is taking over, but I don't believe he can ever top II in terms of making formative impressions on me. Probably helped that I saw them on the ensuing tour as well. All I remember from the concert is the location, sunglasses, a bright red guitar, and the woman I was standing next to.

[@ThatGuy-kd3nw]

champion lemon lime II is definitely a special album

[@Nubsty]

So good at being in trouble: #1 song

[@FlasKamel]

My favorite ‘’band’’

[@KRyder5150]

Thanks for sharing so much information about Ruben and his life and art. I think he’s amazing, UMO is amazing. It’s interesting to know how his life has influenced his music. Still, I don’t over analyze what his lyrics are about. It’s different for everyone.

[@leaode_cafe]

i used to listen to UMO a lot when i was depressed, mainly "II", now watching this i'm laughing because i identified with Ruban Feelings even not being able to understand most of the lyrics because of my poor understanding of english at the time, music is something so fantastic.... one of the things that make existence here whorthly

[@Middle8]

Same here. Music saves people.

[@victoriarose4716]

I love your channel.. keep it up !

[@CuriouSMoosE]

Wonderful stuff, keep up the hard work.

[@Middle8]

Thanks and same!

[@WesternWazzy]

Multi-Love is pure greatness!💖

[@yosekien-.-]

I recommend you to make a video of Car Seat Headrest, Will (the frontman and mastermind behind the band) has an interesting story to tell.