of Montreal at Underground Arts (03 Jun 24) with Godcaster

of Montreal

of Montreal is an American indie pop band from Athens, Georgia, primarily spearheaded by musician Kevin Barnes. Formed in 1996, the band is one of the key members of the Elephant 6 Recording Company. Renowned for its blending of electronic music, funk, psychedelia, and vaudeville into pop, of Montreal’s sound is an ever-evolving feast of avant-garde and flamboyant pop theatrics.

Influences: Kevin Barnes, the frontman, has been notably influenced by artists such as David Bowie, The Beatles, and Prince, evident in their eclectic, glam-infused musical style. Barnes’ talent for shifting between various musical styles and personas can be likened to these influences, with albums offering everything from neo-psychedelia to groovy funk.

Representative Songs:

1. “Heimdalsgate Like A Promethean Curse” - A catchy, synth-heavy track from their 2007 album “Hissing Fauna, Are You the Destroyer?” that’s a great introduction to their dynamic sound.
2. “The Past is a Grotesque Animal” - A 12-minute epic located at the heart of the same album, it showcases the darker, introspective side of Barnes’ songwriting enveloped in a repetitive, hypnotic rhythm.
3. “Gronlandic Edit” - Also from “Hissing Fauna…,” this track epitomizes their ability to juxtapose upbeat pop melodies with deeply personal lyrics.

of Montreal’s performances are known for their theatricality, with live acts often featuring elaborate sets, costumes, and a flurry of backup dancers and actors, making their concerts a unique live experience. Their upcoming performance is a promising spectacle for both old fans and new listeners eager to dive into a sea of experimental pop.

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