Brotherly love
With three sold out nights in London, Kings of Leon have made a big impact in the UK, and the sweltering Wild West weather has joined them. With effects and fancy lighting kept to a minimum, the emphasis is on the band's rocking performance, and the lyrics, which are barely comprehensible at the best of times! Drummer Nathan nonchalantly blows bubblegum bubbles and the whole band have an easy confidence and are distinctly laid back: they know that London loves them.
Kings of Leon are the only band who can cause the audience to scream by using a cowbell; there's just something so quintessentially American about their music. Crowdsurfers revel in the anthemic, big rock tunes, such as 'King of The Rodeo' and 'Four Kicks' and 'Molly's Chambers', which are given a new lease of zingy guitar energy live and are far more energetic than the album versions. Nathan really comes into his own with his drum battering during these powerful tunes, adding a refined backbone to rouse the audience.
'Taper Jean Girl', from new album 'Aha Shake Heartbreak' sleazes in with its lazy-day feel, kicking off the evening perfectly; a great song for a boiling summer's day. 'Pistol of Fire' follows and ups the tempo with its frantic percussion and thrashing guitars. In fact, Kings of Leon play like their instruments, and vocal chords are on fire and their life really depends on being able to dispense some great tunes to the eager audience.
'Milk' provides a welcome break from the more driven songs, with its moody bassline and tense feel; Caleb's slurred vocals really provide the catalyst for this soulful, intense tune. 'Soft' is also predictably sweet and provides an opportunity for some neat chiming guitar work, which is catchy and smart.
'The Bucket' comes into its own live as Caleb swaggers a little on stage and the crowd sing along to the curious chorus "18, balding, star, golden, fallen, heart". Half way through and I still have no idea what they're on about, but whatever it is, it's pretty damn hot stuff. Plenty of blues beats are thrown around and outbreaks of dancing are pretty infectious.
I have to admit that, Kings of Leon really do keep the blues rock vibe alive with their lively performance and Caleb's frantic crooning snarl. Free from gimmicks, their show is genuine and brimming with firey energy.