Of Montreal goes in different directions with new EP

Thecontrollersphere is the latest release from eccentric indie pop band, of Montreal. The EP is said to be the final installment in a trilogy of sorts consisting of 2008’s Skeletal Lamping and 2010’s False Priest. The content of the five song EP is essentially material that was recorded for but didn’t find itself on False Priest. Thecontrollersphere of course has of Montreal’s funky energy which will please fans, but is only an EP for a reason.
With a range of style between the songs, Thecontrollersphere sounds like what it is: a collection of leftovers. The first song, “Black Lion Massacre,” sounds like a science-fiction rock song. While it has a real malicious power, it is basically a lot of noise. “Flunkt Sass Vs The Root Flume” returns to an of Montreal sound that listeners are probably expecting. It is reminiscent of “Casualty of You” off of False Priest.
“Holiday Call” is a lengthy eight minute song halfway through the EP. The track, which embodies the energy of some of of Montreal’s best and most loved works, runs off into a Middle Eastern inspired breakdown. The band brings their sexy glam-rock craziness on “L’age D’or” and then ends Thecontrollersphere with “Slave Translator,” a twisty rock song.
Thecontrollersphere does a cool job of demonstrating the different sounds that of Montreal can create, but is an odd collective of songs. The EP feels somewhat scatterbrained, enough to please of Montreal addicts, but not really sure of its purpose. Maybe we’ll see Kevin Barnes and company experimenting with some of these different sounds on their next album.

WPGU Music Staff Rating: W-P
Key Tracks: “Holiday Call,” and “L’age D’or”.
Recommended if you like: Flaming Lips, Phoenix and Yeasayer.

W = Poor
W-P = Fair
W-P-G = Great
W-P-G-U = An instant classic!

About Kelly Mincey

Aside from being a music enthusiast I'm a junior majoring in Communication and minoring in Gender and Women's Studies. I joined WPGU's music staff my sophomore year - I have to say it's nice having some purpose for all of the money I spend on shows. Converse with me about sci-fi/action/fantasy films and I'll be your loyal friend forever.

View all posts by Kelly Mincey →

Leave a Reply