Yumi And The System - Wonders Of Origin

Yumi And The System

Wonders Of Origin
self-released; 2014

4.1 out of 5 - TOP ALBUM

By Matt Jensen

The four-piece band Yumi And The System comprised of Amy Wright, Ben Wright, Kevin Tetuan and Joey Campbell recently released a ten-song album entitled Wonders Of Origin. Wonders of Origin mixes electro synth based industrial sound with a dash of The Killers, Yeah, Yeah, Yeahs, Portishead, St. Vincent and The Chromatics. The production is exceptional and there is a never a lack of elements that your ear is attracted to.

There is a dark yet attractive aspect to songs on Wonders Of Origin. The songs seduce you with poppy melodies but are also filled with brash, sometimes even dissonant sounds. It’s a wonderful combo that the band consistently reinvents throughout the duration of the album.

The album starts with little warning. “Back of the World” immediately jumps into an infectious verse. Wright's vocals aren't covered in as much distortion as the guitars but you definitely notice they cut through the mix. The guitar work is inventive as mounds of distortion start battling for dominance. It’s one of the many songs on this album that is catchy enough to be a ubiquitous single yet also has an underground appeal.

“The Garden” is a down tempo, electronic based bass heavy song that makes all the right moves. The vibe is almost as dark as a song by Burial but the approach to the production has more in common with The Chromatics.

They continue to slay with songs that show no lack of ambition. “Record On” contains the grandiose, prolific type of chorus you would expect from an artist like St. Vincent but replaces the layers of sound with something you might more expect from Trent Reznor.

The band gets pretty experimental in a good way on “Sunburnt Black.” It almost feels like it could fall apart. Certain parts exit with little warning and Wright goes into a singing/speaking hybrid that works with the song.

Wonders Of Origin manages to keep you engaged for the entire length of the album. It ebbs and flows through a dynamic journey that showcases a band who has a unique style that works. Check this band out live at Tidball’s Bowling Green KY on May 22nd if you happen to be in the area.

official website

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