The Followill family band is back with a whole new style.’
The Kings of Leon’s latest release, ‘Only by the Night,’ in stores Sept. 23,’ is, stylistically, miles away from their first album ‘Youth & Young Manhood.”
Although the themes to their songs remain quite similar — with topics concerning women and booze — they drop their energetic garage rock sound for a more somber and melancholy tone.’
Not that this is necessarily a bad thing. It is perhaps just a bit unexpected considering their first two releases are more akin to rhythmic dance-party music.’
The opening track, ‘Closer,’ sets the pace for the rest of the album with driving drum beats paired alongside dark, but melodic guitar riffs.’
Singer Caleb Followill evokes the sounds of early ’90s singers such as Mike Patton from Faith No More on tracks like ‘Crawl.”
Songs like ‘Manhattan’ sound almost like an old Pearl Jam release, minus that infamous grunge-styled teen angst.’
All that being said, ‘Night’ definitely grows on you after the first listen, so don’t give up on the Followill boys if you don’t enjoy their new material the first time around.’
Stand out songs are ‘Revelry’ — a track which showcases Caleb’s southern drawl and knack for writing great, albeit depressing, songs — and ‘Be Somebody.’ With its powerful drums and memorable chorus, the track might be the album’s best.’
The Kings of Leon have matured from a group of young, rowdy rockers to serious musicians. ‘Only by the Night’ is worth checking out — just don’t expect songs like ‘Molly’s Chambers’ or ‘Holy Roller Novocain.’
Catch Kings of Leon on tour this November at the Orpheum with special guests We Are Scientists and The Whigs.
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