If you’re dying for a taste of what’s to come on of Montreal’s next album, Aureate Gloom (dropping March 3 on Polyvinyl Records), here are some hints: It involves Talking-Heads-inspired funk, traces of pain and identity-searching following frontman Kevin Barnes’ separation from his wife in 2013 and a little bit of 1970s New York City.
Of Montreal and guest Nedelle Torrisi will appear at High Dive tonight. Barnes answered the Avenue’s questions about opening up on the new record, what he’s reading these days and Gainesville memories via email this week.
What kind of music did you listen to growing up? What are you listening to right now?
Mostly hair metal like Motley Cruë and Ratt. Lately I’ve been listening exclusively to mid-90s R&B.
What are you reading lately?
I just finished reading Henry Miller’s “Sexus,” (and) next I will read Lautreamont’s “Maldoror.”
Are there any emerging artists you’d like to collaborate with?
I’d like to work with Cate Le Bon.
What do you remember about playing in Gainesville? How will this show differ from your last appearance on campus a few years ago?
The last show was a lot of fun, (and) it will be hard to beat. I have a memory of being surrounded by palm fronds.
Of Montreal is known for its theatrical performance style. What can concertgoers expect to see in the 2015 tour?
A wildly deformed felliniesque felliniesqueness.
You told Stereogum in October that you went to a writer’s retreat in New York City last summer. Can you tell me a little more about that experience? Did it influence the songwriting on Aureate Gloom?
It was a very inspiring experience; I just sort of wandered the streets and tried to absorb the freak energy of the city. I think it did influence the tone of the album (because) I was also listening to a lot of music that was created in NYC in the 60’s/70’s.
This is a highly personal album — you also told Stereogum you made it in the midst of this separation from your wife and the chaotic period that followed. Was it ever difficult to be so candid about your personal life while you were writing this album?
It’s easy for me to write about my personal life. I’d rather write about that (than) create some phony imaginary world. I’m really only interested in writing about my reality at the moment.
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Tickets are $16 on Ticketweb.com, the High Dive box office or Hear Again Music and Movies! Tickets at the door are $18. Doors open at 8 p.m., and the show begins at 10 p.m. Only those 18 and older will be allowed admission.
