If you told me five years ago that Kings of Leon would have made two global rock epics in a row, records that deserve attention from any fan of American rock music, I would have laughed in your face and said that would be as likely as… let’s say Paul McCartney writing a good solo record. Or as Videogum likes to put it, Joel Schumacher making a good Batman.
I hate band photos with a passion, and this one is no different. The formula is there – at least one dude looking away, in an abandoned space, muted and smooth tones, a bit of darkness for cred.
Who would’ve thought this band would have written such great scruffy raspy hooky american rock songs. You already love Kings of Leon don’t you? If you already do, I bet my coffee grinder you either like Entourage or are a resident of the United Kingdom. (Michael Scott: “ENTOURRRR RRRRAGGGGE!!”). Either a union or an intersection there, guarantees. Remember your Venn diagrams.
Because of the Times (2007) was a great rock record, no matter how you slice it. Of course it wasn’t Kid A or Ziggy Stardust, but it brought forth fun, Gibson and whammy pedal ladened songs that definitely showcased the slightly quirky personality of a band from the Southern US. It’s all I’d ever want to hear for a night on the deck with a few student friendly priced beers. Their new album “Only By The Night” comes out September 23rd, and by the sounds of their 2 released tracks we’re in for another good go in the shrubs.
I’m also intrigued by lead singers that definitely don’t sound like they look. You know, when you can’t believe that voice is coming from that body. Like Phil Collins. Or Cher circa Life After Love. Caleb Followill from KOL is definitely one of those guys, especially with short hairedness. Don’t ever apologize for talking about hair and rock and roll in the same sentence, they’re both just as superficial.
After just checking out their teaser trailer on YouTube, the title track sounds weak and way too U2, but I’m still hopeful. Regardless, I’m pissed that they’re skipping Montreal. I hope this doesn’t become a pattern, cause Toronto is now way too far.
Check out their MySpace for the new tracks. Here’s the album teaser video. I love this pattern in the digital music age – the YouTube pre-release teaser video. Internet 1.
