Kings of Leon - Only by the Night

[Blake Solomon]

Kings of Leon – Only By The Night
Record Label: RCA Records
Release Date: September 23, 2008

You can’t fault Kings of Leon for having a vision. With Only By The Night’s unholy insistence on melancholic, unhurried songs – “I Want You” may be the easiest example since it nearly begs for an ol’ fashioned hoe-down – Kings of Leon attempt an album full of sunsets. Which is fine if your lyrics don’t say things like, “Homeboy's so proud / He finally got the video proof / The night vision shows / She was only ducking the truth.” Even the drums are begging to break out, like on the random barroom brawl moments at the close of “Be Somebody.” Caleb Followill yelps throughout like an injured dog from an indiscriminate Southern location. A band that has spent quite some time perfecting an everyman, garage rock image has moved away from this humble aesthetic. The finale is called “Cold Desert” for Christ’s sake, which I think says more than enough about where the band so desperately wants to be. And in case it doesn’t, the most mournful part of an already mournful song certainly does: “Jesus never loved me / No one ever carried my load / I’m too young to feel this old.” Boo-Freaking-Hoo.

Only By The Night sounds wasteful. Moments that would have morphed into something meaningful on previous albums only dissolve into murky swamps. “Closer” opens the record with an eerily similar effect to that which began a little banger by the name of “This Is Why I’m Hot.” Great, let’s groove. But no, not here. Followill sings the whole song in a tunnel (which happens quite a bit) and the guitars space-out in very repetitive fashion. The song never utilizes its built-in climax. We’re left alone. “Crawl” drenches itself in static, but Nathan Followill’s derivative drumbeat adds nothing. The political vibe (“The reds whites and abused / The crucified USA”) doesn’t make me want to do anything except move to Canada. At least Matthew Followill appeases us with a zany guitar solo. “Sex On Fire” has the album’s best chorus (closely followed by “Use Somebody”), but until you get there it sounds like a lazy mix of “Crawl” and “Closer.” Fight through Followill’s voice scratching in the verses, which sounds as childish as the subject matter, and you're rewarded handsomely. (Signature Blake Self-Deprecation Moment: If I’m calling a song childish, it must be off-the-charts.)

No matter how I come at this album, the outcome is always the same: disappointment. “Manhattan” mixes John Mayer with Southern rock and it’s fantastic. What could have been. Jared Followill’s happy-go-lucky bassline might be the album’s greatest moment. It’s not often I harp on bassists, but you’ll be anticipating Followill each time he gears up to actually play something happy. I’m not arrogant enough to know how to fix KoL, but, well, I am: help us be ourselves, only accompanied by better music. More importantly, we can't even dance to a song called f**king “Revelry?” It ironically opens with the lines, “What a night for a dance / You know I’m a dancing machine!” Perplexing. I guess I’ll use Only By The Night as a breather while the DJ plays the necessary slow songs. Still, that’s not why I went stag to this dance. I went to mingle and cut a rug and have a good time. I went to have a Kings of Leon time.


Recommended If You Like: The Black Crowes, The Killers' Sam's Town, gray, Whiskeytown, running mascara


www.myspace.com/kingsofleon

[Matthew Tsai]

“Jesus never loved me / No one ever carried my load / I’m too young to feel this old.”

hahahaha what a terrible line. spot on review

[hockeyguitar99]

I just got home from best buy where I got this album, but I'm truthfully not expecting much after all of the bad press that they are getting

EDIT: after listening to this, I really like it, but I see what your saying. Good review Blake.

[LikeEatingGlass]

A conversational review.

I agree, often I'm wanting more from most of the tks. They have this potential to go somewhere, but ultimately dry up or dirge out.

The lyrics are often a bit too off-handed and, dare I say it, lazy. Caleb's vocal range is sounding improved though. "I call shotgun, you can play your RnB tunes." um..yeah.

Still, I've been playing it a lot. It's a good Saturday afternoon beers record. Does more for me than the new Bloc Party.

[Ashes101]

are you kidding me?
this album is epic

your an idiot.

[Smeee]

are you kidding me?
this album is epic

your an idiot.


lol.


Good review Blake. Am yet to check this out but I'm sure I will.

[automatic-stop]

Seriously, it's no Because Of The Times but by god this is a blinder of an album. Easily one of the best of 2008 so far.
This is better than SO many albums that've scored a lot higher.

[mushroom]

"(Signature Blake Self-Deprecation Moment: If I’m calling a song childish, it mush be off-the-charts.)"

thought i'd point that out

[Aileen]

Maybe because I came to this record without any expectations, it totally swept me off my feet. Definitely one of my top albums of 2008, maybe even THE top for me.

[infamousgoogler]

Yea, I'm sorry, this album is absolutely amazing. Just because it doesn't follow the same trend the band has been following, doesn't mean it's a bad album. So the band progressed, big whoop. It's like the Panic! At The Disco fans who criticized Pretty. Odd for being not what they were used to - it's something different, and they didn't like it, so they immediately said it was bad. But realistically, Pretty. Odd is one of the much more sound albums of the year. Same goes for Only By The Night.

It's bloody brilliant.

[Wez1212Yes]

Haha weak review, it's a good album, nothing amazing but still very good and on a website that rants on about how good generic bands like FOB, The Academy Is and Paramore, it's not looking good is it.

[jerseysbest]

I gave this a listen last night and totally agree. I really like the single and had high hopes for the album but it didn't sit well with me on the first listen.

[Broden Terry]

Was a fan of some of their newer material. I may pick this up sometime if I can get the chance.
Maybe after college sometime next week...

[SomedayTheFire]

“Homeboy's so proud / He finally got the video proof / The night vision shows / She was only ducking the truth.”

This reminds me of JCook's video incident hahah.

[TheGuillotine]

What? 54%? Really? Im really enjoying this album, i don't get how people haven't gotten into it.

[Timetoroll]

are you kidding me?
this album is epic

your an idiot.


Try spelling 'your' right and then people might think about what you said.

[vandalroyale]

I'm really liking this album

[Indoor Living]

I actually really like this album. I think 54% is quite harsh.

[rckstr29]

I've listened to a few of the songs and I liked it. I guess I need to digest a little better before my final verdict. but this review sucks.

just because i wanted to like this, but now its hard to with such an angry review. Not because you're a bad reviewer.

[ddb43]

Haven't heard this yet, but I don't see it being as bad as you make it out to be. Their last was amazing. I'll probably get this soon.

[mmitrick]

By far the best album of 2008, haven't stopped listening to it since I bought it (have you heard the bonus track "Frontier City"??) ....I completely disagree with the review...Kings of Leon consistently puts out quality music, better than the majority of the crap that is coming out these days...such a low score

[Poochemist]

Ohhhh, KOL got SERVED.

[froston]

Great album...bad review.

[Greyscalex]

The album is better than most but not up to Kings of Leon standards. Feels rushed and unfinished. however its still in my cd player

[heyjohnnyfive]

I couldn't tell from your review... are you a fan of their first two albums?

Both of those are perfect and I personally hope they let their hair grow out again and get back to that greasy rock vibe they had going oh so well for them. I'll still buy this album.

[Nigel Tufnel]

Pretty decent review. I will still take this band's worst over 99.99999% percent of the bands listed on this site daily's best.
And, despite this review, they will still come to anyone's town and sell out any night of the week ha ha, so they arent hurtin.

[jackalt12]

Review was written well. After all, no one wants to read an album where the reviewer goes "eh... it is ok but not my type of thing." So nice job making it entertaining.

That being said, of course you aren't going to give an album a straight listen if:
a) You don't like the singer's voice
b) You don't like it when the band isn't "happy"

Not liking a singer's voice is a totally valid reason to bash an album, it is kind of a big deal. But dishing on KOL for not being "happy" seems an odd criticism, especially when prior (and yes harder and more rocking) releases never carried the "happy" vibe. It's an odd criticism which can be applied to about 95% of bands in existence.

But hey, as a reviewer you did your job, you got a reaction, so nicely done and I found it entertaining at least.

[JonathanDTEA]

this record is insane... give it another spin, blake

[siblime746]

You gave The Maine's album a 70% and Kings of Leon's album a 54%?

Sorry but that's ridiculous.

[dontthink]

its really an amazing album, i probably would have never even listened to it, but, my friend put it on the other night while i was playing xbox, and i was very impressed. if this review is stopping you from checking it out on your own, please just take a listen, you might actually like it.

[MyWorldEntire]

Haha Blake's reviews always cause controversy, shows you are truly one of the best reviewers on this site

[FUCKDIRTYWIPES]

at first listen, i loved this cd. and now every time i turn it on i see myself switching over to one of the previous three works....disapointed.

[boykosaurus]

Causing quite the controversy Blake.

[dostoevsky]

53% :(

Tracks 1-5 are huge sounding, 6-7 are filler for me, then 8-11 close the album well with a more intimate feel.

KOL never make the same album which I love, you just have to let the new sound grow on you.

“Jesus never loved me / No one ever carried my load / I’m too young to feel this old.”

hahahaha what a terrible line. spot on review

I think he was drunk when recording that song and only had a first verse, the rest was just improvised.

[Blake Solomon]

This may be the most sarcastic mega-quote ever. I'm excited.


"(Signature Blake Self-Deprecation Moment: If I’m calling a song childish, it mush be off-the-charts.)"

thought i'd point that out

Thanks, fixed!

Haha weak review, it's a good album, nothing amazing but still very good and on a website that rants on about how good generic bands like FOB, The Academy Is and Paramore, it's not looking good is it.

You don't like TAI's new album? Shame, it's fun for a few hours. I had no idea our editorial content was so slanted. Must change immediately.

What? 54%? Really? Im really enjoying this album, i don't get how people haven't gotten into it.


I gave it a 53%. So HA!


I couldn't tell from your review... are you a fan of their first two albums?

Both of those are perfect and I personally hope they let their hair grow out again and get back to that greasy rock vibe they had going oh so well for them. I'll still buy this album.

I like Aha, never heard youth and young manhood. I also think BOTT has it's moments ('on call' mcfearless' 'ragoo'). I'm more than used to Kings taking their sweet time with their songs. I'm more than happy with them doing something slow, but this album is one big song and one big climactic letdown. Someone called me out on talking about how I wanted them to be happy again. That isn't just a comment on something lyrical. It's a comment on overall sound. The only thing I called happy was a bassline. Even when the lyrics are downtrodden, it had that musical effect to counteract, this does not. Bad album, it just is.

You gave The Maine's album a 70% and Kings of Leon's album a 54%?

Sorry but that's ridiculous.

I gave this album a 53%. So HA! And the Maine are good friends of mine. They asked me, and paid me handsomely to give that piece of trash a good score. I obliged and I'm actually typing this from a yacht. So HA!

its really an amazing album, i probably would have never even listened to it, but, my friend put it on the other night while i was playing xbox, and i was very impressed. if this review is stopping you from checking it out on your own, please just take a listen, you might actually like it.

I agree, please give this a shot and then come back and tell me I'm an idiot like these other fine folks!

Haha Blake's reviews always cause controversy, shows you are truly one of the best reviewers on this site

Not much controversy, they aren't going to sway me and I'm not going to sway them. They don't hate my writing, just my score, which is the best party, really. Because I could type terrible things about them and their mothers in the review and they'd never know as long as it wasn't sitting in that little box with the numbers. Cheers, mate.

[Blake Solomon]

53% :(

Tracks 1-5 are huge sounding, 6-7 are filler for me, then 8-11 close the album well with a more intimate feel.

KOL never make the same album which I love, you just have to let the new sound grow on you.



I think he was drunk when recording that song and only had a first verse, the rest was just improvised.


I don't know, I made a note on these forums that I first hieard this on the 9th. And it has only gotten less pleasant for me after time.

[sean_tbl]

I also think this album is fantastic. I think the production is top notch, really great bass lines in a few songs.

[Jamos4184]

Never been a fan of these guys...just not my thing, I guess.

[dostoevsky]

I don't know, I made a note on these forums that I first hieard this on the 9th. And it has only gotten less pleasant for me after time.

Fair enough, I can kind of see where the review is coming from but I guess I'm too invested in the band to have an objective opinion on the album. I was disappointed there wasn't a 'King of the Rodeo' or 'Ragoo' on it though.

[Blake Solomon]

Fair enough, I can kind of see where the review is coming from but I guess I'm too invested in the band to have an objective opinion on the album. I was disappointed there wasn't a 'King of the Rodeo' or 'Ragoo' on it though.


i was extremely disappointed to find this out as well. I thought "Closer" would become it, but it doesn't.

[Gobigvt7]

I think the fact that Blake here gave the vocals a SIX speaks volumes to how misplaced his approach to this album is. Caleb Followill has one of THE best voices in rock. Who gives a shit if the lyrics aren't all that? A lot of the Beatles lyrics were tripe as well. I'm not saying KoL are the Beatles, but this album is FULL of great melodies and tasteful, refined mid-tempo rock songs. It's not perfect, but it's a really good album.

I play it in the bar I work and every single time, heads pop up and I'm asked who's playing over the speakers. That's obviously the result of this album sucking huge.

Ta-ta credibility.

[xmidwestcore]

I really found this album enjoyable. If I want the heavier KoL stuff i'll put it on, but this album def. has a certain vibe to it that I enjoy.

[cue]

are you kidding me?
this album is epic

your an idiot.

this album sucks btw its "you're an idiot"

you're = you are
your = WRONG

[joshy hizzle]

I remember when I liked this band.
Wait that was yesterday, until I heard this..

edit: The first few songs are good, but then it just dies.

[Aether]

Good album. To each his own.

[InMyLife]

yep, pretty dead on blake.

[rockwell]

opinions are like assholes, but this review was way off.

[Kapa73]

I love this record, don't understand the "bad press." Kind of irritating how some people are so displeased with it considering the sound of Because of the Times. It seems like a logical progression.

[MorningStar10]

Blake Solomon, the same person who gave Johnny Foreigner 86% has given this album 54%?
thats terrible, on first listen the album is good, but after being on my player non-stop for last 3 days, its already grown on me.

I may admit its not as good as Youth and Young Manhood but its definitely on par with Because of the times for me, the muscianship of the son of the preacher men is undeniably the best in the business.

However credit must be given for this obviously controversial review and i respect that, but im sorry you're wrong ha.

[Blake Solomon]

Blake Solomon, the same person who gave Johnny Foreigner 86% has given this album 54%?
thats terrible, on first listen the album is good, but after being on my player non-stop for last 3 days, its already grown on me.

I may admit its not as good as Youth and Young Manhood but its definitely on par with Because of the times for me, the muscianship of the son of the preacher men is undeniably the best in the business.

However credit must be given for this obviously controversial review and i respect that, but im sorry you're wrong ha.


You don't like Johnny Foreigner? How? You're wrong! WRONG! WRONG!

[MorningStar10]

You don't like Johnny Foreigner? How? You're wrong! WRONG! WRONG!

Nah, not what i was saying, i saw Johnny Foreigner when they played at Reading festival and thought they were a solid band, and to be honest i haven't given their album a full listen, but just i'm saying there is no way they could get higher than KOL. The musical ability and craftmanship of both bands are of no contrast. Its like trying to compare a cheeky feel to full blown Humping.

[HenryMiller]

Anyone else scratching their heads over "17"? I can really dig this album and its vibe, but 17 really stands out as perhaps the only KoL song i'd skip in their whole category. confusing.

[Blake Solomon]

Nah, not what i was saying, i saw Johnny Foreigner when they played at Reading festival and thought they were a solid band, and to be honest i haven't given their album a full listen, but just i'm saying there is no way they could get higher than KOL. The musical ability and craftmanship of both bands are of no contrast. Its like trying to compare a cheeky feel to full blown Humping.


these bands couldn't be any less comparable. You're right.

[MorningStar10]

'SHES ONLY SEVENTTEEEEEENNN'
Yeah get what your saying, Revelry and Use Somebody alone make up for that album filler.

[MorningStar10]

these bands couldn't be any less comparable. You're right.

haha, i do appreciate what you are saying, but i just find it hard to understand why anyone wouldn't like KOL, maybe im ignorant, or maybe you are dellusional. ha

[EndSerenading]

not a big fan of this record. was sort of into the other stuff. just not feeling this. id give it a 65% due to about 3 of the songs being nearly completely skippable, plus marking off a few points other places.

[mena]

I'm not exactly disappointed with this album since I enjoy some of the songs a lot, but I feel as though they could have released something better.

It's definitely not their best, but I'll just let people form their own opinions.

[phillmamula]

I'm not reading anymore reviews by Blake

[Ambien]

I think the fact that Blake here gave the vocals a SIX speaks volumes to how misplaced his approach to this album is. Caleb Followill has one of THE best voices in rock. Who gives a shit if the lyrics aren't all that? A lot of the Beatles lyrics were tripe as well. I'm not saying KoL are the Beatles, but this album is FULL of great melodies and tasteful, refined mid-tempo rock songs. It's not perfect, but it's a really good album.

I play it in the bar I work and every single time, heads pop up and I'm asked who's playing over the speakers. That's obviously the result of this album sucking huge.

Ta-ta credibility.

I agree about the vocals, Caleb is incredible. There are singers who you can just tell are born to sing. They pull off everything on record nearly flawlessly live. Then there are singers who you can tell just don't have that talent and you can hear it on the record but it's most notable at live shows. Anthony Kiedis for example is one of those people who you can tell has tried to learn to sing over the years with the progession of the Chili's but you can still tell on the record his voice just doesn't sound quite right when he hits notes...it's not natural, and it's clearly evident in their live shows. On the other hand Caleb's just a naturally gifted singer. He's in total control of how he sounds.

On that note: Great Album, been listening to it for awhile and I think there are definitely different songs for different moods, try REALLY listening to some of the songs that have been tagged here as filler on your headphones when you can focus, and I have a feeling you'll find a new appreciation. If not, there are a plethora of bands that are all around way worse than Kings of Leon that you could have wasted your effort on.

[Cuddleworthy]

bad band, bad album.

[Blake Solomon]

I think the fact that Blake here gave the vocals a SIX speaks volumes to how misplaced his approach to this album is. Caleb Followill has one of THE best voices in rock. Who gives a shit if the lyrics aren't all that? A lot of the Beatles lyrics were tripe as well. I'm not saying KoL are the Beatles, but this album is FULL of great melodies and tasteful, refined mid-tempo rock songs. It's not perfect, but it's a really good album.

I play it in the bar I work and every single time, heads pop up and I'm asked who's playing over the speakers. That's obviously the result of this album sucking huge.

Ta-ta credibility.


hahaha, amazing post all around.

[shaysexpanther]

too low of a score

[con40dmitri]

How can you give Bayside / punchline...any other typical emo / pop punk stuff 70s 80s and 90s and give KOL a 53? I guess typical from an AP reviewer. I dont mean to hate bro, im sure you got some sweet reviews and all but come on you gotta realize the pop punk / hardcore stuff isnt gonna stick around.

[con40dmitri]

bad band, bad album.

And a good band, good album is? You're an idiot.

I'm not reading anymore reviews by Blake

Agreed.

[Blake Solomon]

How can you give Bayside / punchline...any other typical emo / pop punk stuff 70s 80s and 90s and give KOL a 53? I guess typical from an AP reviewer. I dont mean to hate bro, im sure you got some sweet reviews and all but come on you gotta realize the pop punk / hardcore stuff isnt gonna stick around.


I didn't review either of those albums :shrug:

[con40dmitri]

I didn't review either of those albums :shrug:

You get my point though.

[Blake Solomon]

You get my point though.


I see how you're trying to wrap your head around my low score, yes. It's obviously going to include biased and misinformed logic. You assume from my affiliation with this site that I am incapable of giving a "true indie gem" like this a high score. You assume that this quality, to bash "good" music, is precisely the quality that got me hired. From my time here, I've seen there is very little I can do to sway yours and others' mind. There is no such thing as a review in a vacuum, I understand this, but this site doesn't have one single review mindset. Drew Beringer loved the Underoath record. I can't stand it or the band. I liked the Maine record, Jason Tate, amongst most others, hated it. We do our own thing. But I suppose bringing up that Maine review will only cause you to fixate on that now, since you've found a "bad" album that I enjoyed, thus making it crystal clear how I couldn't like this one, right? It's just not in my nature, despite how I feel about other of the Kings' albums. But that doesn't matter, either, right? Just the numerical patterns of this site. That's all that matters.

I guess I do see your point. Touche.

[con40dmitri]

I see how you're trying to wrap your head around my low score, yes. It's obviously going to include biased and misinformed logic. You assume from my affiliation with this site that I am incapable of giving a "true indie gem" like this a high score. You assume that this quality, to bash "good" music, is precisely the quality that got me hired. From my time here, I've seen there is very little I can do to sway yours and others' mind. There is no such thing as a review in a vacuum, I understand this, but this site doesn't have one single review mindset. Drew Beringer loved the Underoath record. I can't stand it or the band. I liked the Maine record, Jason Tate, amongst most others, hated it. We do our own thing. But I suppose bringing up that Maine review will only cause you to fixate on that now, since you've found a "bad" album that I enjoyed, thus making it crystal clear how I couldn't like this one, right? It's just not in my nature, despite how I feel about other of the Kings' albums. But that doesn't matter, either, right? Just the numerical patterns of this site. That's all that matters.

I guess I do see your point. Touche.

Not assuming not you got hired to bash good music, but I do think it's a low score compared to "good" music on this AP.net. Obviously reviews are all relative, but since it's one site that does it I think I can generalize and make a relative assumption. Why does everyone hate on pitchfork? People don't hate their individual reviewers. It's nothing against you my man, just trying see the checks and balances here.

[vandalroyale]

this record is insane... give it another spin, blake

fully agree...insane is a good word

[Ambien]

You assume from my affiliation with this site that I am incapable of giving a "true indie gem" like this a high score.

I just want to point out that Kings are actually less "indie" than 95% of the music discussed here at AP.net. Everything they've released going back to their debut EP has been put out on RCA, a major record label. Considering that I do think this site is close to incapable of giving a major label rock album like this a high score.

[Blake Solomon]

I just want to point out that Kings are actually less "indie" than 95% of the music discussed here at AP.net. Everything they've released going back to their debut EP has been put out on RCA, a major record label. Considering that I do think this site is close to incapable of giving a major label rock album like this a high score.


I know this, I was simply making fun of that person's mindset. But I wouldn't necessarily call KoL a mainstream band either.

I gave the score, the site only gave me a place to put it. And it would have been higher had we been talking about Aha or Because of the Times. This record is bad, not because of some site bias, but because of its lack of good songs.

[Ambien]

I know this, I was simply making fun of that person's mindset.

I thought you may have been so I guess I just thought it was a very presumptuous joke directed at the former commenter. You're basically assuming that if it's not Pop/Hardcore then it's soley indie rock? I didn't see him say "indie", only you.

But I wouldn't necessarily call KoL a mainstream band either.


As far as Kings of Leon being mainstream:

Using the simple logic of supply and demand considering Kings of Leon concert tickets are on average about $150 more than Panic at the Disco (Just a random band mainly considered mainstream around here to compare to) then Kings of Leon should considered mainstream as well

Also if judging by CD sales then consider the fact that Kings of Leon's CD is already projected to be the 2nd fastest selling album behind only Coldplay for the year (http://www.contactmusic.com/news.nsf/article/kings%20of%20leon%20album%20sales%2 0only%20beaten%20by%20coldplay_1081 443)

So considering you review albums, and this one on particular, I would start calling Kings of Leon mainstream, because if not then your facts aren't straight.

I gave the score, the site only gave me a place to put it. And it would have been higher had we been talking about Aha or Because of the Times. This record is bad, not because of some site bias, but because of its lack of good songs.

Well if we're talking about overall critic reception then it's not bad. When comparing your criticism to the rest of the critics and realizing the context of this review then "site bias" would be a good way to explain the differential in scoring. I've read a lot of your other reviews and IMO you have a pretty good taste in music (not that it matters what I think on that topic really) I just thought you've been a bit dismissive in this thread about this band.

From what I've experienced this band is either love'em or hate 'em so I'm not surprised by your review or score.

I might stray away from defending a review in the future. You don't have to, it's your opinion, and it will usually only result in people picking apart everything you say even more. LIKE ME!

[Blake Solomon]

I thought you may have been so I guess I just thought it was a very presumptuous joke directed at the former commenter. You're basically assuming that if it's not Pop/Hardcore then it's soley indie rock? I didn't see him say "indie", only you.



As far as Kings of Leon being mainstream:

Using the simple logic of supply and demand considering Kings of Leon concert tickets are on average about $150 more than Panic at the Disco (Just a random band mainly considered mainstream around here to compare to) then Kings of Leon should considered mainstream as well

Also if judging by CD sales then consider the fact that Kings of Leon's CD is already projected to be the 2nd fastest selling album behind only Coldplay for the year (http://www.contactmusic.com/news.nsf/article/kings%20of%20leon%20album%20sales%2 0only%20beaten%20by%20coldplay_1081 443)

So considering you review albums, and this one on particular, I would start calling Kings of Leon mainstream, because if not then your facts aren't straight.



Well if we're talking about overall critic reception then it's not bad. When comparing your criticism to the rest of the critics and realizing the context of this review then "site bias" would be a good way to explain the differential in scoring. I've read a lot of your other reviews and IMO you have a pretty good taste in music (not that it matters what I think on that topic really) I just thought you've been a bit dismissive in this thread about this band.

From what I've experienced this band is either love'em or hate 'em so I'm not surprised by your review or score.

I might stray away from defending a review in the future. You don't have to, it's your opinion, and it will usually only result in people picking apart everything you say even more. LIKE ME!


I won't say you've done a good job making me look like a fool, but you have. And I guess I tend to not get involved in debates that go on in these threads because it tends to be me vs. the world. But I kept seeing the same critique of me, that because I write for this site, it's expected that I don't like this record. That point, and that point alone, couldn't be farther from the truth. I want to like everything I hear, especially from a band I like, and Kings would definitely be a band I like. This record sucks, though. Outside of any of the other bullshit, from this site's reviews to their past albums, I just don't like this record.

You can see why I may sometimes slip and respond to people hating on my score or whatever. Because the critiques of me or this site tend to be so far off based that they stop being funny and become extremely frustrating. I'm glad you like this record. Hell, I wish I did. But there's only one reason I don't like this: personal opinion. Just like any other site or, hopefully, any other review. I'm not about to pretend to like something i don't. I bet you wouldn't do the same either.

[heavyheart_x3]

the lyrics are a little weak in parts but personally i enjoy it.

[iloveffoobb]

hmm... kings of leon get 53% and valencia get 89%. wtf is wrong with the world?

[Nigel Blondeau]

even the new academy is beat this by a good 15%

[con40dmitri]

Using the simple logic of supply and demand

I like the logic bro! And I won't lie as much of a KoL fan I am this is their worst record yet, but a 53 does not do it justice.

[LikeEatingGlass]

hmm... kings of leon get 53% and valencia get 89%. wtf is wrong with the world?


Valenica is the name of an orange juice company here. I laugh every time I hear that bands name.

[skankachu_boo]

You are crrraaazzzzyyyyy maaaaaan...i love it just as much as their old stuff...ESPECIALLY COLD DESERT...the mentioned line from that song was the one line that immediately caught my attention when i first listened...and after watching THIS...it made it even better. Sometimes alcohol is good for your soul...it all just comes pouring out.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EhBdPEaNj-g

[Brandao]

I really enjoyed the album...the only song i have to complain is "I Want You"

It starts and flows really well, but they don't take it anywhere further...
what started as a potentially great song goes nowhere and doesn't impress

besides that....the album is awesome

[Tito Jr.]

Solid record. The review is pretty 53% worthy.

[Mangle]

Right on, man. This album could be more average. Only men who attach their dicks to their music would think otherwise.

[alert=danger]

I liked it alot, its not trying to be a big mix of every type of songs, Kings Of Leon are always changing there sound, and with this they have tried to create an album of songs which sound average, but there is a lot to the.
Still, everyone has there opinion! I Liked it any way!

[Melkor]

I disagree with the score, I think it is worthy of a higher mark but a well written review and a couple of your points I would agree with, especially when the band gets very chorus heavy and almost neglects the verses. 'Sex on Fire' is a good example and I am not huge on that song, despite it being a massive hit. However, the chorus heavy point is what makes me disagree on 'Closer', I think that song is a high point , it sounds huge and Caleb's voice just works with it. The song just drags me in from the get go and broods along for its duration. A perfect album opener, much like 'Knocked Up' on BOTT, which I prefer as an album. Having seen them in the summer, songs like that just work live as well, phenomenally tight band live.

KOL are maddeningly frustrating though as for me they still have too much filler on each album. BOTT is the closest they have come to a complete record but that was still too long at 13 songs and only 'Fans' and 'Ragoo' stopped the second half from fading into dullness. After the first 4-5 songs on this album they once again revert to a few songs that sees the record lose momentum. Both YAYM and Aha Shake Heartbreak were slightly too inconsistent as well.

No doubt a band that will have an unbelieveable greatest hits but have not yet released a truly great album.

[Blake Solomon]

I disagree with the score, I think it is worthy of a higher mark but a well written review and a couple of your points I would agree with, especially when the band gets very chorus heavy and almost neglects the verses. 'Sex on Fire' is a good example and I am not huge on that song, despite it being a massive hit. However, the chorus heavy point is what makes me disagree on 'Closer', I think that song is a high point , it sounds huge and Caleb's voice just works with it. The song just drags me in from the get go and broods along for its duration. A perfect album opener, much like 'Knocked Up' on BOTT, which I prefer as an album. Having seen them in the summer, songs like that just work live as well, phenomenally tight band live.

KOL are maddeningly frustrating though as for me they still have too much filler on each album. BOTT is the closest they have come to a complete record but that was still too long at 13 songs and only 'Fans' and 'Ragoo' stopped the second half from fading into dullness. After the first 4-5 songs on this album they once again revert to a few songs that sees the record lose momentum. Both YAYM and Aha Shake Heartbreak were slightly too inconsistent as well.

No doubt a band that will have an unbelieveable greatest hits but have not yet released a truly great album.

this is a good statement, I agree.

[Poochemist]

Sex on Fire is an annoying song. It plays way too much on my radio at work.

[Ambien]

Sex on Fire is an annoying song. It plays way too much on my radio at work.

That's why I'm glad I don't have to listen to the radio...in the past it's tarnished many a song for me that I might otherwise enjoy under different circumstances

[JorynnRace]

Sex on Fire is definately on the radio too much, but it would never keep me from listening to this album. I seem to be in the minority, but I love this album. I like the direction they took with Because of the Times, and I like how they continued with this more somber/darker tone. But, hey, if they want to go back to the crazier mush mouthiness of Aha Shake Heartbreak... then I'm all for that too.

[Mangle]

Sex On Fire is one of the dumbest songs of all time. 53% is very generous for an album containing that work of pure idiocy.

[im_john_galt]

are you kidding me?
this album is epic

your an idiot.

Great argument. Although I'm pretty sure "You're an idiot" would be a better one.
Flickr search for "Go Home Morans" trust me it's right up your alley.

[Ambien]

Great argument. Although I'm pretty sure "You're an idiot" would be a better one.
Flickr search for "Go Home Morans" trust me it's right up your alley.

I hate when people correct grammar online but considering your post was extremely ironic and it's so easy to see I would just like to do the exact opposite of what I usually do and point out the fact that your first two sentences are despicable. Furthermore, "Great argument." is merely a fragment and "Although" in your sentence is a subordinating conjunction with the lack of a dependant clause after it in which it refers to.

Now please, for your own sake, go rearrange your schedule and add a little more time for learning grammar instead of criticizing it.

[JadedBabyBlue2]

Songs form their past abums were hit or miss for me, I either loved the song or hated it. but every song on this album has caught and held my attention. I think they have done a great job on this one and I look forward to hearing more from them.

[ManInMusicBox]

I would have given this album an 86%. Maybe it is because I never listened to them before but I completely get into a groove listening to this album. I love Crawl, how could you not?

[heyjohnnyfive]

I like Aha, never heard youth and young manhood. I also think BOTT has it's moments ('on call' mcfearless' 'ragoo'). I'm more than used to Kings taking their sweet time with their songs. I'm more than happy with them doing something slow, but this album is one big song and one big climactic letdown. Someone called me out on talking about how I wanted them to be happy again. That isn't just a comment on something lyrical. It's a comment on overall sound. The only thing I called happy was a bassline. Even when the lyrics are downtrodden, it had that musical effect to counteract, this does not. Bad album, it just is.


Haha, I just found your response to my quote as well as my original statement. Here's the kicker. After all was said and done, after I hated the previews I heard and bought the album anyway, when 2008 came to a close and I made my AOTY list... this one was #2. Can't deny I love it!

Here's my official list shorthandedstudio.com/blog/albums-of-the-year-2008/ (www.shorthandedstudio.com/blog/albums-of-the-year-2008/)

[SeanEBoy2686]

I think this album deserves more credit that it's been given by this review

[Mangle]

I think this album deserves less credit than it's been given by this review.

[FreshyFresh23]

Read the review, then all the comments and am surprised by some of the discourse.

Personally, I think this album rocks. KoL really have some kick ass songs and I don't get how you can listen to it and not enjoy at least half the cd.

I respect your opinion and your writing Blake, but I think you were awfully harsh and critical. Also, responding by saying the cd sucks, the band sucks - that sort of stuff does not really help people reconcile their love for the band with your score - it just makes it seem like you are a bit of a hater. :)

Either way, he scored it low and everyone can score it how they want and the user reviews will reflect this. Everybody shouldn't start to bag on the site and start making claims of bias.

[OuttaMyFace]

one of their best albums yet. i love it!

[Heppolo]

Despite the catchiness of "Sex On Fire" and "Use Somebody" this album has plenty nothing to offer. The lyrical inability seems so obvious that one can hardly listen to a song without laughing. But on the second listen the old rule becomes evident. "This Joke Isn't Funny Anymore".

[SophGod]

Can't believe you ragged on "Closer" it's one of my favorite songs ever and I don't even listen to this band.