The Check-In with Kevin Barnes-of Montreal

Kevin Barnes of of Montreal joins Joe Plummer for a candid and introspective conversation about his new album, Ether Mead, set for release on June 5th via Polyvinyl. Barnes reflects on his move from Vermont to Brooklyn, the emotional undercurrents of heartbreak and personal reinvention that shaped the record, and his evolving approach to songwriting and collaboration. He discusses the album’s return to psych folk pop roots after recent electronic experiments, emphasizing the importance of spontaneity, collaboration with longtime touring musicians, and the therapeutic act of releasing emotional 'darkness into the ether.' Barnes also shares insights into his teaching experience at Bennington College, where he led a class titled 'Songwriting Crimes and Recording Atrocities,' encouraging creative risk-taking and embracing unpredictability. The episode closes with a heartfelt discussion about his daughter directing the music video for 'Already Dreaming,' highlighting the joy of creative family collaboration and the sincerity that comes from personal investment in artistic projects.