“How can we escape from this indigent state?” questions Athens-based Of Montreal on their latest compilation “Daughter of Cloud.” In the last week of the quarter, university students are probably asking themselves the same question as they wrap up final projects.
Thankfully, the Savannah Stopover has teamed up with the festival’s nonprofit sponsor, Stand Out Youth, to bring Of Montreal live to Forsyth Park tonight. And the stressed-out purse strings of students can relax: general seating for the concert is completely free of charge.
In store for show-goers is a light show and a side-show, according to Of Montreal’s Kevin Barnes. The group hopes to take full advantage of the stage through their wacky set of trippy pop. SOY director Robert Dunn said that the high-energy performers capture the individualism SOY embraces as an important part of teaching self-expression and respect to the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer community.
SOY works to provide support, resources and education to LGBTQ teens and young adults between 14 and 23 years old in Savannah. Part of every alcoholic beverage purchase at the show will go towards SOY’s cause. The organization will have a booth to provide attendees with more information about their work in Georgia.
Dunn agrees Of Montreal are high-energy performers who capture some of the individualism SOY embraces as an important part of self-expression and respect.
But before Of Montreal takes the stage, Royal Canoe will break out their six-piece band, complete with upbeat falsettos and dance-worthy percussion.
As both bands play to the park crowd (attending members on Facebook currently tally just over five hundred), Leopold’s Ice Cream, Blowin’ Smoke BBQ, SweetWater Brewing and Barefoot Wine will vend food and drinks. Of Montreal will also have a table offering up apparel and merchandise to commemorate their first performance in Savannah throughout ten years of performances.
And for eco-friendly travelers downtown, the Savannah Bicycle Campaign will offer bicycle valet for riders throughout the evening. Participants will receive a ticket in exchange for free protection of their bicycle during the show but are requested to make a donation for the service.
For Savannah Stopover pass holders, there will be viewing areas in front of the band shell and an area for VIP pass holders.
Even with the best viewing areas reserved for ticket buyers, the free concert begins a season of good music and great seats in Forsyth Park (which is also home to the Savannah Music Festival starting later this month).
The concert also provides a rare opportunity for all ages of the community to participate in a music-related event, since most of the venues in downtown Savannah are reserved for ages 21 and up.
Of Montreal is sure to bring their hype-worthy showmanship to the Forsyth Fort band shell tonight, with Royal Canoe starting at 7 p.m. Students and Savannahians will escape to the park grass and get groovy — if only for a couple of hours.
