CD review: Because of the Times - KINGS OF LEON

[KiwiCoromandel]

If you think life on the road for a rock band is tough, spare a thought for Kings of Leon. With three brothers and a cousin on tour, you'd think the domestic disputes between the Followill boys would be horrendous.

But, as the Nashville band's thrilling third album proves, if they're getting sick of the sight of each other, they're not showing it yet.

Because of the Times is a stunning slice of country-rock pie. Based around a rollercoaster relationship ride, it seems the Followill boys have had their hearts irreperably broken.

"I don't care what nobody says, we're going to have a baby," front man Caleb Followill croons on seven-minute opener Knocked Up, setting the scene for a love affair doomed to fail.

By the time My Party rolls around - following raucus love anthems Charmer, On Call and McFearless - the poor bugger has been dumped and left for dead.

Then, on True Love Way, depression hits Followill as he wails "she could kill me just like she did before".

Crikey. It must have been one hell of a break-up. But let's hope the Kings keep falling for the bad girls, because having a broken heart has never sounded as thrilling as this.

Kings of Leon's Because of the Times is out now through SonyBMG.

source: CHRIS SCHULZ/Stuff.co.nz

image:reuters:KINGS OF LEON...."Because of the Times" is a stunning slice of country-rock pie...