Meshing guitar-based hard rock with the raw passion of punk rock and the melodic sophistication of pop, Ume are an Austin, Texas-based trio consisting of Lauren Langner, Eric Larson, and Rachel Fuhrer, who've earned a growing following for their relentless touring schedule, explosive performances, and clever but unpretentious music. They issued their debut album, Urgent Sea, in 2005, followed by Phantoms in 2011. In early 2014, Ume released their third and most accomplished album to date, Monuments. ~ Mark Deming.