Kings Of Leon, Because Of The Times

I recently had my third 'album of the week' review in Drum Media:
KINGS OF LEON
Because Of The Times
Sony/BMG

In 2003, Kings Of Leon’s debut long-player hit the music scene like a slap in the face, after which they successfully avoided the sophomore album banana skin with an even stronger effort. So, upon discovering that the purveyors of songs that, to quote lead singer Caleb Followill, “punch you in the balls”, have decided to spread their creative wings and experiment a little, surely we can expect their third album to be their first disappointment. After all, who manages to follow an excellent debut with two steadily improving records? Well, quite simply, Kings Of Leon do, and Because Of The Times actually represents their strongest work to date.

This new offering also contains the Kings’ bravest material thus far, and the fact that they have taken a few chances in order to escape their pigeonhole is perfectly illustrated by their decision to open the album with Knocked Up, which clocks in at over seven minutes – more than two minutes longer than anything they have released before.

Further exemplifying the more eclectic nature of this album is the fact that the first single to be lifted from it, On Call, is also the first song to use vocal effects. Meanwhile, Black Thumbnail is possibly the closest thing they have ever produced to a straightforward arena rock song, and My Party is delicious fun, encompassing a catchy chorus, bold guitar riffs, cowbells and harmonising.

Perhaps the most notable aspect of Because Of The Times is Caleb Followill’s vocal, which stretches way beyond the barely comprehensible, boozy Tennessee slur that we are so used to. Not only is he a pretty face, but the dear fellow can actually sing as well, and the stunning Ragoo and The Runner prove that his voice has genuine range and unusual beauty to it.

While they could probably have forged a decent enough career continuing to put out punchy, two-minute garage tunes, it’s refreshing that Kings Of Leon are keen to evolve and push themselves creatively. If they continue to craft albums of the quality of Because of The Times, then all we can do is hope that their desire to grow doesn’t abate anytime soon. Long live the Kings.

To read my exclusive interview with Caleb, click here: http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=12792787&blogID=243757164&MyToken=f4514f2c-2fe4-4b06-8e46-0a9285348968

BOOM BOOM MEGA BOOM

I reviewed this night at Candy's for Drum Media. Here's what I had to say for myself:

While others were busy erecting tents at Playground Weekender, it seemed that every indie kid who remained in the city headed to Candy’s, which was absolutely rammed for the much-anticipated Boom Boom Mega Boom night.The Holidays kicked off proceedings, and represented the zeitgeist nicely enough with their jaunty, spiky and ever-so slightly nostalgic indie tunes. Next, The Hate Game [have we reached a stage yet where we can stop saying that they were formerly called The Vendettas?] belted out their familiar dancey sound. While their tracks perhaps lack a little variety and subtlety when performed live, there is no denying that they sure as hell can get a crowd dancing, and frontwoman Larissa was obviously as cool as ever, with the words “Be a hater, love is boring” scrawled across her back.
Talking of cool frontwomen, singer Holiday’s interesting, breathy and powerful vocal was particularly stunning as Bridezilla took the opportunity to showcase some new material, which further demonstrated their continuing musical growth. The beautifully-attired and incredibly accomplished quintet played with panache, and live favourite Saint Francine proved not only to be the highlight of the set, but the highlight of the entire evening.

Like The Hate Game, Cut Off Your Hands were also recently obliged to change their name [from Shaky Hands], but it was business as usual for the Auckland quartet, who performed with such communicable oomph that they had an already excited crowd going absolutely mental. Frontman Nick climbed the rafters, pouted, sank to his knees, yelled and screamed his way through the set, while the sweat-drenched front few rows sang along, jumped and roared their overwhelming approval.

Headlining a bill that was equally high in energy and quality, The Ghosts’ set had that typical bold sound to it, thanks largely to Paddy’s awesome guitar noise, and proceedings were kept joyfully high-tempo by Westy’s upbeat drumming. Despite having been on their feet for hours, the audience showed no sign of tiring as the teenage four-piece opened with an instrumental track which saw singer Gabby sitting on the stage nonchalantly strumming his guitar while all around him went crazy. A powerful rendition of The Red Version was the pinnacle of another impressive set, which was devoured by an appreciative crowd whose unabated enthusiasm made the whole night that little bit extra special.

Sydney Laneway 2007

I went to the Laneway festival, just near Circular Quay in Sydney. For once, I wasn't working, but was just there to chill out and have fun.
The day started badly though, with my choice of outfit immediately proving itself to be foolish, especially for a seasoned festival-goer. Upon looking out of my window in the morning, I discovered that the weather was slightly overcast, so, I pulled on my skinny jeans and made my way to the venue. By the time I arrived it was absolutely boiling. Seriously. There was some kind of heatwave happening.

Inside the festival, shaded spots were at a premium, and people frantically waved fans infront of their sweaty brows, as the sun continued to beat the crowd into submission. Still, at least there were no Homebake-style downpours.

Oh, the bands. Of course. Well, pick of the bunch were Melbourne's The Temper Trap, who manage to make musical that is both interesting and fun. Also good were The Archie Bronson Outfit, Peter, Bjorn and John, and Holly Throsby. But, hell, I wasn't reviewing, so, to be honest, rather than concentrating too hard on the music, I really just took the opportunity to hang out all day with dear friends. The only review I shall give is that it is one of the best one-day festivals I have ever been to. There were no mashed-up morons and no-one was drunk and stumbling. It was just an affable gathering of music lovers, and the perfect way to spend a Sunday.

Bravo, Laneway.