Coquelicot Asleep in the Poppies: A Variety of Whimsical Verse

Of Montreal: Kevin (vocals, acoustic guitar, steel guitar, piano, bass, percussion); James (vocals, drums, bongos, percussion); Andy (guitar, electric guitar, violin, piano, percussion); Heather Mcintosh (cello); Dottie (flute, clarinet, oboe, piano, organ, keyboards); Julian Koster (accordian).
Of Montreal's major voice Kevin Barnes has unparalleled talent to write lyrics that double as relatable adult situations and children's fable. This trend continues on Coquelicot Asleep in the Poppies. While there are come similarities to their previous efforts Bedside Drama and The Gay Parade, Coquelicot is more ambitious in its concept, arrangements, lyrics, and even artwork. As with other Of Montreal albums, this one works as a concept, but the songs also stand on their own, which is even more impressive. The songs are awash in melodies and harmony, a trademark of Of Montreal's previous work as well as other Elephant 6 related bands. Barnes continues to write amazingly creative lyrics full of imagery, even including interludes of story on "Lecithin's Tale of a DNA Experiment That Went Terribly Awry" and "The Events Leading Up to the Collapse of Detective Dullight." "Let's Do Everything for the First Time" is classic Of Montreal, while "Penelope" has a Syd Barrett feel to it. Strings are the main feature of mellow and beautiful "It's a Very Starry Night," and "It's Just So" could have been lifted right off of Bedside Drama. The band also incorporates a wide variety of instruments such as cello and violin to accordion and theremin. Coquelicot builds perfectly upon The Gay Parade and shows the progression of a great band. ~ Tyson Bjorge