Of Montreal's second release for Bar None, The Gay Parade is a place where one can go to be in the company of funny creatures, eccentric characters, and bizarre architecture. It's an escape from the everyday, from disappointment and disillusion and the dangerous unpredictability of love. Of Montreal is the brainchild of Kevin Barnes, and his band has long been part of the Elephant Six collective of young, prolific musicians that includes Neutral Milk Hotel, Olivia Tremor Control, Elf Power, and Music Tapes.