Múm is the latest in what seems to be a global trend of acts that believe the bigger the band, and the more unusual the instrumentation, the better. Though only two original members of the group remain, Gunnar Örn Tynes and Örvar óreyjarson Smárason, there were seven musicians on stage during last night’s concert at the historic 6th and I Synagogue. The ensemble employed the following instruments over the course of the show: guitar, bass, drums, piano, keyboard, autoharp, cello, violin, harmonica, kazoo, clarinet, recorder, trumpet, and a toy-like gadget played by blowing through a rubber tube attached to a plastic keyboard.

Along with groups such as Arcade Fire, Gogol Bordello, Polyphonic Spree, and even our own Le Loup, Múm does not rely on harmonic or rhythmic complexity in the way jazz or progressive groups might. All of these bands write and perform in a straightforward way that connects with an audience. Last night, as Múm delivered their catchy minimalist synth pop, they seemed almost surprised when the audience cheered after every song. Their awkward dancing and apparent nervousness on stage proved endearing, and so unlike the aforementioned bands who connect through sheer energy, Múm resonated with the crowd largely because they were so damn cute.