Despite the morbidly depressing lyrics, this is the ultimate feelgood album. Possibly the least experimental album in the band's catalog, Aldhils prides itself on its striking contrast between morose storytelling and insufferably optimistic melodies. Kevin's carefree vocal delivery on here is also a standout, though it may be a turn off for some.
This is an extremely important record that carries a strong influence on 21st century psych-pop music. Kevin Barnes and company have been innovating since the early four-tracks, and Aldhils is a key tweak in sound for the band. Its twitchy rhythms and tempos can be heard clearly even on Skeletal Lamping, and are telling of the latter half of Of Montreal's catalogue. "A Question For Emily Foreman" displays some of the bands best guitar work, and "An Ode To the Nocturnal Muse" will make you smile uncontrollably. The entire work is teeming with a psych-pop chaos, yet maintains a nonchalant groove throughout.
