Kings of Leon- "Youth And Young Manhood" (Aug.19, RCA Records)
Grade: A
Simply amazing: Kings of Leon is the best band to come around in a long, long time. Three brothers and a cousin who learned their musical trade as the backing band for their father/uncle, a traveling preacher, The Followills (how about that last name!?!) have a story that is so country/rock, it is bound to make spurs shoot out the heels of their listeners.
They have absolutely every element a rock and roll bands needs. Matthew and Caleb Followill play filthy, dirty guitar lines that feature seizure-inducing solos that would make Angus Young proud. The rhythm section of Nathan and Jared Followill pounds away with such efficiency that all three Hank Williams should drop down and bow. Well, maybe not Hank, Sr.
"Youth and Young Manhood" does not miss a beat. It is frowned upon to make a statement like this at anytime, but this record is the best record to be released in 2003.
Recommended for fans of: early Neil Young and Crazy Horse, Allman Brothers Band, My Morning Jacket.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
