Unknown Mortal Orchestra

Unknown Mortal Orchestra Live at Foundry, Sheffield University – Saturday, 28 March 2026

Prepare for a sonic journey like no other as Unknown Mortal Orchestra descends upon Sheffield for an unmissable performance at the iconic Foundry. On Saturday, 28 March 2026, the legendary psych-rock collective will transform the Foundry into a vibrant hub of kaleidoscopic sound and infectious energy. This isn’t just another gig; it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in the distinct and captivating world of Ruban Nielson and his sonic alchemists. For fans of boundary-pushing music, intricate melodies, and grooves that burrow deep into your soul, this is an event that demands your presence. The Foundry, a beloved fixture on the Sheffield music scene, provides the perfect intimate setting to experience the full, unadulterated power of Unknown Mortal Orchestra.

About Unknown Mortal Orchestra

Unknown Mortal Orchestra (UMO) is the brainchild of Ruban Nielson, a New Zealand-born musician, songwriter, and producer who has carved out a unique niche in the contemporary music landscape. Since their debut in 2011 with the critically acclaimed album Unknown Mortal Orchestra, the band has consistently evolved, blending elements of psychedelic rock, funk, R&B, and lo-fi aesthetics into a sound that is both instantly recognisable and perpetually surprising. Nielson’s distinctive falsetto, layered with fuzzed-out guitar riffs, laid-back yet propulsive rhythms, and a penchant for sonic experimentation, forms the core of UMO’s appeal.

Their discography boasts a string of highly regarded albums, each showcasing Nielson’s masterful ability to craft infectious hooks and explore introspective lyrical themes. II (2013) further cemented their status with standout tracks like “So Good at Being in Trouble” and “Swim and Sleep (Like a Big Cat),” demonstrating their growing maturity and sonic palette. Multi-Love (2015) earned widespread critical praise and a Grammy nomination for Best Alternative Music Album, featuring the titular hit and the equally captivating “Can’t Keep Checking My Phone.” More recently, Sex & Food (2018) and IC-01 (2023) have seen UMO continue to push their sonic boundaries, incorporating increasingly diverse influences and a raw, exploratory spirit. Across their career, Unknown Mortal Orchestra has cultivated a reputation for delivering electrifying live performances, translating their meticulously crafted studio sound into exhilarating, improvisational sonic explorations that leave audiences spellbound.

Venue Information

The Foundry is a renowned live music venue situated within the vibrant heart of Sheffield University’s Students’ Union. Known for its atmospheric setting and excellent acoustics, The Foundry has a long-standing tradition of hosting an eclectic range of acclaimed artists, from emerging talents to established global acts. Its intimate yet energetic environment makes it an ideal space to connect with the music and the artists. For complete venue details, including accessibility information, bar facilities, and transport links, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for an evening that transcends the ordinary. Unknown Mortal Orchestra are renowned for their electrifying and dynamic live performances, a testament to their artistic evolution and Ruban Nielson’s sheer musical prowess. While a definitive setlist for any UMO show is always a delightful mystery, fans can anticipate a journey through their extensive and beloved back catalogue. Expect to be captivated by anthems that have defined their career, such as the instantly recognisable groove of “Multi-Love,” the introspective sway of “So Good at Being in Trouble,” and the infectious energy of “Hunnybee.” Newer fan favourites from their more recent sonic explorations are also likely to feature, showcasing the band’s continued drive to innovate and experiment.

Nielson’s performance style is magnetic. He commands the stage with a relaxed yet intensely focused presence, effortlessly weaving intricate guitar solos with his signature falsetto vocals. The band’s chemistry is palpable, with each member contributing to the rich, layered sonic tapestry that UMO is celebrated for. Expect moments of pure, unadulterated groove, interspersed with hazy, psychedelic soundscapes and moments of raw, unvarnished emotion. The band excels at creating a truly immersive experience, often extending songs with improvisational jams and allowing the music to breathe and evolve in real-time. The atmosphere within The Foundry is expected to be electric, a shared space of collective appreciation for sonic innovation and undeniable talent. While the exact duration can vary, a typical Unknown Mortal Orchestra headline show is a substantial affair, running for approximately 90 minutes to two hours, ensuring ample time to lose yourself in their captivating sound.

FAQs

Q1: What is Unknown Mortal Orchestra’s typical setlist like? Unknown Mortal Orchestra tends to balance their most popular hits with deeper cuts and newer material. You can expect to hear crowd-pleasers like “Multi-Love,” “So Good at Being in Trouble,” and “Hunnybee,” often interspersed with tracks from their latest album, showcasing their evolving sound. They are also known for extending songs with improvisational sections, so even familiar tracks can feel fresh and spontaneous live.

Q2: Is Unknown Mortal Orchestra known for their live improvisation? Absolutely. Live improvisation is a cornerstone of the Unknown Mortal Orchestra experience. Ruban Nielson and the band are adept at stretching out their songs, exploring different musical directions, and creating a unique sonic landscape for each performance. This improvisational element is a key reason why their live shows are so highly regarded and often differ significantly from their studio recordings.

Q3: What is the general atmosphere of an Unknown Mortal Orchestra concert? UMO concerts typically cultivate an atmosphere that is both energetic and introspective. Their music blends infectious grooves with psychedelic textures, creating a sound that encourages dancing and collective immersion. Expect a mix of dedicated fans singing along and those simply lost in the mesmerising sonic journey. The vibe is generally laid-back yet deeply engaging.

Q4: How many members are typically in Unknown Mortal Orchestra for a live performance? While Ruban Nielson is the constant creative force behind Unknown Mortal Orchestra, live performances usually feature a dynamic band of talented musicians. The core lineup typically includes a bassist, drummer, and keyboardist/guitarist, allowing them to faithfully reproduce their complex studio arrangements and engage in collaborative improvisation.

Q5: Does Unknown Mortal Orchestra play much older material live? Yes, Unknown Mortal Orchestra frequently revisits and performs fan-favourite tracks from their earlier albums, including Unknown Mortal Orchestra and II. These older songs often receive a fresh interpretation live, sometimes with extended jam sections, ensuring they remain vibrant and engaging for audiences.

Q6: What is Ruban Nielson’s stage presence like? Ruban Nielson has a distinctive and engaging stage presence. He often appears understated yet intensely focused, allowing the music to take centre stage. His guitar playing is a highlight, and he connects with the audience through his soulful vocals and the sheer passion he brings to his performance. He’s a captivating frontman who draws you into the UMO world.