So I started this blog a year ago and haven't done squat with it since...going to get back on track here.
I've written a couple things and have posted them on Facebook, but they probably belong here, too.
Here is my latest concert review to get me back on track...
Kings Of Leon: Youth, Whiskey, and Fireworks
Blossom Music Center July 26, 2010
So, last night’s Kings Of Leon show was J.D. and I’s second concert in two weeks…but the Sting and KOL shows couldn’t be more different. But different in the best way…the best thing about music is variety, right?!
Whereas the Sting show was nicknamed The Geriatric Tour…at the KOL show I was literally surrounded by teenage boys! I couldn’t help but laugh to myself about how two nights/bands can bring out totally different people. When J.D. and I took our seats we started talking to the guys sitting by us, a couple were at their very first KOL show and really excited, and one boy was at his fourth KOL show just like J.D. They were really nice, fun, great kids – and I’m pretty sure the first timers are now rabid KOL fans.
The opening bands were The Stills and Built To Spill. I was familiar with The Stills, but had never seen them live. I always feel bad for openers because a lot of people are busy chit-chatting, making beer runs, or just oblivious to the fact that there is a band playing…but that doesn’t mean you don’t put out a little effort. It just seemed like The Stills were going thru the motions at times…no interaction with the crowd at all. I’m not sure they even noticed we were there. But they played some good tunes that I liked so I guess I can’t complain too much. Anyway, Built To Spill was a bit different. When they came out, I had no idea they were the band…no roadies or techs helped them set-up and since I’d only heard a few of their tunes and not seen them, I had no idea what they looked like. What they looked like was, well, not the way they sounded…not sure that makes sense, but these guys are a bit older, bearded and graying, and looking like they just rolled out of bed for the most part. But they sounded great and while not overly talkative, they did address the crowd which was nice. I will definitely be giving Built To Spill more listening time.
So, it was time for KOL…finally…I mean it had been months since I’d seen them last!!! The guys took the stage under the cover of some very red, thick smoke…and the place went off. About four songs in, Caleb said that he wasn’t feeling well, and he did sound a bit more “croaky” than usual, he signaled for Nacho (the fifth Followill) and out came the first whiskey shot of the evening. He said he was going to drink himself better – and I do believe it worked. The only time I really noticed any vocal issues was during Trani, but nothing major. Here is the setlist – I think I’ve got it in order:
Crawl
Notion
Taper Jean Girl
Immortals -- New Song…sounded great, but I think probably the least favorably received of the new songs played.
Molly’s Chambers
Fans
Milk
Closer
Four Kicks – they killed it and I think the kids around me about lost their minds, they REALLY liked this one.
The Bucket
Radioactive – this was my favorite new song just from hearing some bootleg versions off the internet. Can’t wait to hear the finished version.
Sex On Fire – This song required huge audience participation as Caleb wasn’t feeling well and didn’t think he could carry the chorus. We were happy to help. Caleb said it was the best that songs ever sounded…I’m sure he says that to all the audiences. ;)
On Call
Southbound – This song is sooo good…after hearing it live I cannot wait to hear it recorded. Did I mention it was sooooo good!? I seriously want to pack my bags for Nashville because of this song.
Trani – nice to see Trani back in the setlist, we heard it at the last show we were at, and while this wasn’t Caleb’s best vocal I’ve ever heard on Trani, it was still really, really good. Still amazed at how dumbfounded people are when they play this.
Encore:
Knocked Up
Use Somebody – another big response from the crowd…people love this song.
Slow Night, So Long – Great closer with pyrotechnics! There were fireworks all over. I’m pretty sure I saw Nate checking to see if he was on fire at one point and checking to see if all his hair was still there at the end of the encore.
KOL has been playing four new songs at their recent shows and we got to hear 3 of them – for whatever reason they didn’t play Mary. All I know is I love the new stuff and I cannot wait to get my hands on the new album…I’m dying of anticipation and the rough cuts I’ve heard online aren’t cutting it!!! I’m so glad that the band isn’t listening to management and record companies and playing what they want to play!! This show was so good I think I just might go see them again in a month or so…actually I’m going to see them TWICE in a month or so…but who’s counting???
P.S. I got some awesome shots at this show. You can see them all here:
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