Kings Of Leon - Only By the Night Format: Album Release Date: 22nd Sep 2008 Label: RCA Records Rating: Kings of Leon return just a year after their brilliant "Because of the Times" album with an album that sounds almost like a sequel in terms of sound and ideas. "Only By the Night" is one of the rare sequels that outdoes its predecessor. On "Because of the Times", Kings of Leon expanded on their sound, fleshing out more complex and focused songs with frontman Caleb taking on a cleaner vocal approach. Their first two albums may have been catchy and addictive as hell, but little more was actually going on than Caleb mumbling indecipherably over songs that only consisted of two chord riffs. However songs like "Molly's Chambers" and "The Bucket" certainly proved that they had the potential to be something more than a bunch of hick rednecks who were desperately trying to figure out their instruments. "Because of the Times" was the start of something glorious, as they wouldn't have been able to write epic tunes like "Knocked Up" if they hadn't cast their hillbilly sound into the background. It's still there though, just toned down, so hopefully fans who prefer the first two albums won't be disapointed by their new sound. "Only By the Night" turns out to be even better than the last album, even if it works off the same blueprints, they really pulled out all the stops to make their most catchy, poetic and consistent statement yet. "Sex On Fire" proves they can still get into your head with a great addictive single. Songs like "Closer" sound much more full and rich in sound than their garage rock roots would ever have suggested, and it works to their favour. It isn't just the sex that is on fire, as Caleb of the Followill family is on fire too, his vocals have never sounded so good. He definitely sounds more confident and emotionally charged than ever, and it turns out being able to understand their lyrics is a good thing. Other standouts include the poppy "Notion" which musically wouldn't sound out of place on a Snow Patrol album. The two best tracks have similar titles, "Use Somebody" explodes with anthemic chanting vocals that just beg to be yelled by an arena sized crowd, and it goes on to have touching verses and a brilliant chorus. "Be Somebody" is a brilliant rocker with massive drums and a great rhythm to it. None of the 11 tracks ever seem to stumble and it is rare to find a modern alternative rock album that is not only without weak tracks, but feels impossible to choose which side of the vinyl is better! Kings of Leon have finally reached the potential they have been seeking since their debut. "Only By the Night" is their greatest achievement yet. It is a massive improvement on their sound, which ultimately stays true to their roots. Whilst most of their peers are either being dropped from their labels or going electronic, "Only By the Night" is here to show us all how it should be done.

Written by: Frenchie