The joy of Of Montreal used to be found in the fact that they didn’t take themselves seriously. Their unashamedly upbeat, poppy style was complemented by inane lyrics and simple song constructs, forming the ultimate peppy guilty pleasure music. So it is with earnest consternation when I say that Of Montreal has decided to take themselves seriously on their most recent release. “Taking themselves seriously,” it should be emphasized, is not meant as the compliment this phrase usually signifies. In this case, it’s unfortunate at best.
Of Montreal’s newest release, Skeletal Lamping, opens with what seems like a misguided attempt at an epic pop song. Consisting of various “movements” that only sort of fit together, this song is a dizzying listen. Apparently, the band decided this new approach was a good thing, and the rest of that album largely follows the same style. It wasn’t a good thing, however, and the songs are further hurt by the band’s decision to attempt to write meaningful lyrics. In contrast to the light, humorous stories the band usually weaves for their tracks, the weighty topics featured in Skeletal Lamping threaten to both bore and depress.
That being said, the album is not all bad. Of Montreal is, after all, very talented, and their unfortunate decision to branch out did not result in a complete failure. Many of the songs have parts that are really enjoyable, and a few tracks can actually be considered good. “St. Exquisite’s Confessions” is fun and sounds a lot like their light-hearted past work. It's funny. And strange. But that’s what one usually wants from an Of Montreal album. Unfortunately this release just doesn't deliver.
