Because of the Times Review

[bobbyjames23]

comfortcomes.com/?page=reviews&id=1603

[nadius]

I'm copying for you guys...


Do I hear Grammy buzz?
Probably not.

Mainstream music is simply not ready for this confident third effort by Kings of Leon. Infused with the heart of a Tennessee upbringing and a swagger reminiscent of Jagger, Because of the Times demands the listener’s full attention. Songs like ‘McFearless’ demonstrate the almost distractingly interesting drumming of Nathan Followill, while the fiercely confrontational ‘Black Thumbnail’ boasts his brother Caleb’s confessional vocal ability similar to a young Dave Von Ronk.

The album begins with the haunting bass line of “Knocked Up” that calls to mind a country rock version of Interpol. It roars its way through songs that contain a nearly confusing mix of sneering rock and country sensitivity. Caleb’s refrain “she’s always lookin’ at me” in the song “Charmed” sounds like a paranoid drug addict delusion, while the glossy “On Call” makes a perfect single with a strange stop on the vocal echo. “Black Thumbnail” proved to be the most raucous song on the album, and featured some nearly hair-metal guitar solos. I craved a drum solo that would have taken the song to a totally new level, but was never satisfied; maybe on the next album?

Moving on to the appropriately named “My Party,” Jared picked up a bass line that was faintly Death From Above 1979-ish, and Caleb’s characteristic twang was nearly completely removed by the vocal distortion. “True Love Way” looks to be a good contender for the next single, though his voice softens none for the sentimental lyrics. Nathan’s drum beat for “Ragoo” was slightly reggae, and the xylophone was unexpected but welcome. When Caleb sings “it’s cold,” in “The Runner,” I truly began to shiver, and the trippy nature of “Trunk” reminded me of The Doors. The closer, “Arizona,” was certainly an example of the best coming last. An absolutely beautiful soundscape of a song, the band must have been aware of what a gem it was when they recorded it. With lines like “said that I’m a fighter, too drunk to remember,” Caleb Followill just might join the ranks of poetic hard asses such as John Cash and Mark Lanegan.
My favorite aspect of Kings of Leon is the equal footing of all instruments on the record. It’s especially good to hear Jared’s bass so prevalent, an instrument that is unfortunately often hidden in the background. This band will continue to evolve beautifully; Because of the Times was meant to be.

by Kimberly L. Steinmetz



Go Arizona!

[fuzz]

This album was meant to be. And Caleb is a rock poet, I agree.

[tashi0106]

Nathan's Drumming in McFearless FTW!!!