CD Review:

Kings of Leon – Aha Shake Heartbreak

By Chris Senn

With their new album the Kings of Leon have avoided the dreaded sophomore slump. "Aha Shake Heartbreak," released yesterday, is the group's first since their critically acclaimed 2003 debut "Youth and Young Manhood." The album administers
a large dose of southern-fried garage rock complete with distorted guitars and wailing vocals.

The band is comprised of brothers Caleb, Jared and Nathan Followill and first cousin Matthew Followill. Their name comes from Leon Followill, traveling evangelist and father of the brothers. Whenever the Followills would travel with their father they passed time by listening to Rolling Stones and Neil Young albums. These influences are evident in their music and may be one reason why they are so successful in the United Kingdom, where their debut has sold close to two million copies.

They wanted to keep the sound of "Aha Shake Heartbreak" as real and organic as possible. To achieve this effect the songs were recorded live in the studio with no over dubs. The lyrics also explore darker topics than their debut.
     
"On this album, 90 percent of what we're writing about are things we've experienced – nights we've had," drummer Nathan said in the band's biography. The first song, "Slow Night, So Long," starts slow but less than fifteen seconds in it goes into a trot. Halfway through the song it jolts into a full gallop. The album becomes relentless and does not break from its stride for more than a few seconds until the last track.

This is a very energetic album and it shows that the Followills know how to rock. "Taper Jean Girl" contains a driving bassline, pronounced guitar work and almost bounces with energy. First single, "The Bucket," is propelled by rolling drums and lead singer Caleb's strained vocals. The vocals bring a sense of honesty to the lyrics.

Kings of Leon have much room to improve but "Aha Shake Heartbreak" is still a strong album. If they get better with each album who knows what they could eventually do.

GRADE: B+

More Info: www.kingsofleon.com