Written by: Kate Phuah

Photos Courtesy of: Kate Phuah

Whenever I hear “of Montreal” I automatically feel like a warm, laundry-fresh, blanket has been thrown over me. It’s definitely not because their lyrics or melodies are what one would call “peaceful,” but more so because of the nostalgia and good times I associate with their music and the whimsy that it brings to my soul. (I never thought I would say the phrase “whimsy that it brings to my soul,” but here I am.) I’ve been a huge fan of of Montreal ever since I first started listening to them back in 2015 and saw them live in Houston that same year. They have since become one of my all time favorite bands and I could probably recite the lyrics to 75% of their discography (which is something to say for myself because there are over 20 albums). The bright and upbeat melodies paired with the complex, carefully morose lyrics is what I really love about this band. Frontman, Kevin Barnes, isn’t afraid to divulge into the world of taboo or explore concepts and subjects most writers wouldn’t dare to touch. I wouldn’t say he is some kind of hero or savior of music, but he is just as much a genius as he is innovative simple because he has stripped himself down to the core and created music that is 100% for him, by him.

If the originality in of Montreal’s music doesn’t somehow shine through in their music, it will definitely make itself apparent during their live shows. Instead of simply playing live music, Barnes creates an event, a show. It is a theatrical, psychedelic trip, utilizing elaborate props, background dancers, costumes, and lights. You’re getting your money’s worth here, people!

The show lasted around 2 hours, starting with an opening act by, Locate S,1, a newer band that came out with an album that was produced by Barnes. I didn’t even realize there would be an opening act, but I was pleasantly surprised when the band came out, fronted by a stylish woman in bright, 60s-esque garb. Front-woman, Christina Schneider’s voice was dreamy and soft. I couldn’t tell what she was saying half the time but I was still enjoying every minute of their glittery music that was a mix of disco and new wave indie/synth. Some standout songs for me were “From the Nun” and “ 1 800 Capital C.” The bass was superb and there was even a little bit of saxophone thrown in there, which I can respect.

When of Montreal finally came out, I was instantly taken back to the first time I saw them in 2015. I knew they had a show in store for us but I had no idea what it would entail. Just as unexpected as I expected, a giant wolf head took the stage followed by Kevin Barnes himself. A magical, slender, and effeminate man. They opened one of their older tracks, “Id Engager” and followed with most, if not all, of the songs off of their new album, “White is Relic/Irrealis Mood.” They did play some oldies like, “Sex Karma” and “Wraith Pinned to the Mist and Other Games,” but I really enjoyed their newer music. It has sort of a disco inferno-type vibe and is characteristically upbeat.

They ended with an encore in which they performed a few more songs, including my favorite song by them, “Bunny Ain’t No Kind of Rider.” I was so pleased at the end of this concert and I felt like I was riding a high that only of Montreal can place you upon. I also managed to snag the set-list which was neat! No other band will ever have such a nostalgic and whimsical influence on my own creativity and imagination than of Montreal. They embody everything in lightness and darkness in their music and stage presence.