This is the debut album from Kings Of Leon, 3 brothers and one cousin who hail from Tennessee. Comparisons to The Strokes are expected although if you are wise enough to see beyond the similar 70’s image then you will realize that the new style country overrides all of that. The title ‘Youth And Young Manhood’ was found in the back of a bible, on the bottom branch of Moses’ life tree and the guys didn’t steer wrong with it. The whole album is definitely some sort of holy miracle. Sticking to their country and blues roots, Kings Of Leon have managed to create something rich in trampy guitars and howling vocals.
The first track “Red Morning Light” is 3 minutes of devilish guitar riffs leading the stripped back Rock ‘n’ Roll. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to take off all your clothes and grab the nearest thing to a human… too much?
One of the most moving ballads of the year is the 5th track “Trani” about a transsexual in a small town just trying to do her thing, but everybody is always watching. The vocals are so soft and bearing, they sing the well-written lyrics immaculately. One of the star tracks on the album, this song is bound to be loved by even the toughest critic no matter what your style of music.
“Spiral Staircase” is so very hard-core country it made me want to slap my knee and head bang at the same time, but at the risk of looking epileptic or just slightly over-excited, I waited until I got out of the car and into the privacy of my own home.
The track that you would have most likely heard is “Molly’s Chambers” and if you haven’t you should. If it doesn’t make you fall in love with this band instantly you must listen to some pretty god damn excellent music. That or you’re just ignorant and deserve to be slapped.
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The other star track of the record and the most amazing mix of rock, country and imperial blues music is “Dusty”. I can’t say enough about how well these guys pull off the blues and roots. It is so freaking distinct it’s like a kick in the nads or a slap in the face for the lesser equipped. The yells and hollers from the other guys in the background adds to the divine rawness of the situation.
Now that I have you all excited, the other tracks are “Happy Alone”, “Wasted Time”, “Joe’s Head”, “California Waiting”, “Genius”, “Holy Roller Novocaine”.
But wait! There is one last song that you may be stupid enough to miss … because it’s hidden. Titled “Talihina Sky” its reminiscent of an old time saloon bar equipped with a dusty piano. The song sings about everyone admiring a certain place but this man wants to get out ‘as soon as he can fly’.
Star Rating out of 10? – A solid 12. Go ape-shit over these guys. It’s worth it. And while I’m in the spirit I thought this little quote from a little girly from down south would be appropriate. “The only one that could ever reach me, was the son of a preacher man.” – Dusty Springfield. Amen sister, I wouldn’t mind if one of the boys reached me either.
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