Author: Yasmin Ettobi
All photos courtesy of Ebru Yildiz
After paying a visit to indie pop band Of Montreal’s Spotify page, the first question that will course through your mind is probably something along the lines of, “how do they have SO many albums?”
FromCherry Peel, the group’s 1996 debut record, to White is Relic/Irrealis Mood, their 2018 release, of Montreal has proved that quality and quantity don’t need to be two separate entities when it comes to music.
As a whole, of Montreal has been making tunes for over 20 years, and in that time, have released a whopping 23 albums. Throughout the decades, a plethora of members have come and gone, but singer/songwriter/frontman Kevin Barnes has stayed, and remains the backbone of the group.
Of Montreal’s sound is one that constantly fluctuates, but is held consistent because of Barnes’ pleasantly distinct vocals on each track. Songs such as “Baby” from Cherry Peel are driven by the strumming of acoustic guitars and layered harmonies, while on the other hand, a track like “Wraith Pinned to the Mist and Other Games” is dependant upon its bouncing basslines and subtle yet smart percussion.
If you were a fan of the group in April of 2017, you would have known that of Montreal brought their quirky indie tunes to Seattle venue Neumos. If you’re bummed about missing the show, fear not, for on November 4th, the group is returning to the same stage, with Portland synthpop group Reptaliens opening the night up.
Interested in seeing of Montreal live? Doors open on November 4th at 8:00 PM, and tickets to the show can be found here.
If you want to hear more from Barnes and his band, make sure to check out their website, as well as follow them on Twitter and Instagram.
YASMIN ETTOBI| dreading my midterm the morning after this show | KXSU Music Reporter