Of Montreal - Jon Brion EP

This past Tuesday Of Montreal released their newest EP on Polyvinyl entitled Jon Brion Remixes. The EP consists of five tracks, two of which are remixes of "An Eluardian Instance" (renamed "First Time High"), and the other three are remixes of "Gallery Piece." These remixes were done by critically acclaimed producer Jon Brion, who has produced artists ranging from Spoon to Kanye West, and scored movies such as Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. Both of these songs come from Of Montreal's 2008 Polyvinyl release Skeletal Lamping.

The first track, "First Time High (Reconstructionist Remix of "An Eluardian Instance")" seems to cut out some of the longer horn interludes from the original, but does little else to really change the song. Track two, however, satisfies those looking for a little more raw and emotional Kevin Barnes. The "Of Chicago Acoustic" version of "An Eluardian Instance" reminds me of most of "Girl From NYC (Named Julia)" most likely because Barnes' voice is rarely heard next to an acoustic guitar. The acoustic guitar isn't all though; a mandolin can also be heard played by Chris Thile of Nickle Creek.

Following the two remixes of "An Eluardian Instance" are three (including one instrumental) remixes of "Gallery Piece." Why this song was chosen to be highlighted on this EP is beyond me as I thought it was one of the weaker tracks on Skeletal Lamping. The first remix, the "JB Remix" adds a few things to the song, but much like the first remix, does little else to change it overall.

The second version is the "Long Version," 8:16 to be exact. So what happens in the four-and-a-half minutes added to the song you ask? Not too much; primarily, different synth solos. The solos add a new feel to the song, but in my opinion they don't do enough to hold the listeners attention for eight minutes.

I feel that this EP is definitely worth the $6 they're charging for it for one principle reason: "First Time High (Of Chicago Acoustic Version)." This song alone is worth the six bucks, and if you're anything like me, the song will probably be on repeat until the next Of Montreal release.

Check out a song (not including the acoustic version, because I want you to buy the album):


Then buy the album here.