of Montreal Matched Chicago’s Freak at Lincoln Hall
Article and photos by Natalie Silva
What better way to kick off Pride Month than with a queer performance of a lifetime from Kevin Barnes and their band of Montreal Sunday night at Lincoln Hall. Stopping in the city on their Lady on the Cusp tour, of Montreal brought what some have labeled indie pop, and others freak show house, to a crowd of all ages. With a baby sitting on the barricade and a couple in their seventies running the pit, it was clear that of Montreal brought together a fabulously odd group of people.
Kicking off the show was Godcaster, an art-rock band from Brooklyn. The group of six were in sync as they traded instruments and captured the audience’s attention with their erotic and edgy sound. It seemed the highest compliment the crowd could scream at lead singer Judson Kolk was “freak”. The band performed songs off of their 2023 self-titled album with peak awe caught at “Pluto Shoots His Gaze Into the Sun”. Godcaster’s set was full of passion and groovy dancing as the members shuffled around the stage seemingly caught in a dream. Hopping down into the crowd to finish off the set, Godcaster set the tone for the night to come, leaving the crowd ready for a show.
of Montreal took the stage in the band’s quintessential fashion. Lights were flashing, outfits were eclectic, and homage was paid to the power of psychedelics. of Montreal has been releasing music since 1996 and harps on themes of gender and sexuality. Contrary to what the band’s name may suggest, of Montreal hails from Athens, Georgia. Shedding light on relatable topics in a catchy and perfectly crass way, Kevin Barnes got the crowd screaming all the lyrics to hits like “Bunny Ain’t No Kind of Rider” and “It’s Different for Girls”. Visuals can only be described as those of nihilists with good imaginations (“Gronlandic Edit”). Every other song brought performance artists in a variety of weird and quirky costumes, masks, and more. From birds to skeletons to glittery deer, it was impossible to think inside the box at this show. Adding personal touches through crowd interaction and constant thanks, it was clear that of Montreal was just as grateful to perform as the crowd was to listen. There is no doubt that when the band returns to Chicago they will be met with another sold out show and crowd of the coolest misfits the city has to offer.
