I can’t say i knew who The Feelies were before sitting down on the lawn of the Pritzker Monday night, but I definitely know now. The energy this band exudes on stage is great, and their music just makes me want to dance. I will start my Feelies collection and try to learn more about them. It is just crazy that they called it quits 20 years ago and are back at it again.
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Generally, the Single arouses suspicion.
I know it’s meant as an offering of pleasures to come. A taste of what-is-anxiously-awaited or something-altogether-different. Or reassurance that the artists we love haven’t lost their touch. The Single is a glimpse into the yet unknown whole. But as fans and listeners, can we trust it? Is it an accurate representation? Is it too canned, too distant? Does it push the limits enough? Is it as good as anything on the last album? And really, we just hope it doesn’t sound like crap.
Suspicion was once again aroused a few weeks ago when Tennessee- hailing Kings of Leon released their single “Sex On Fire,” from their recent album Only by the Night. I like those boys. I like the story of their unconventional rise to fame, from Southern evangelical preacher’s sons to genuine rock stars. I like their hair. I really like the drummer (he is one talented dude). But would this be just another “likable” single, a prelude to another enjoyable, if somewhat predictable, Kings album?
Nope. I love this Single. I mean, love. “Sex on Fire”’s hammering wall of sound, wailing lyrics, and insides-squeezing emotion came in way above expectations. I was lying in bed when I first heard the song played on the radio; I bolted straight up, stared intently at the stereo and demanded: “WHO is this? I didn’t know Kings of Leon did this!” In the age of mp3 and instant digital downloads, I chose to lie in bed for another 3 hours waiting to hear it again, with a sense of childlike exuberance. And I had a feeling that over the next few weeks, I would probably be hearing a lot of it.
BUT…what does it say about the album yet to come? Is this it? Would this hook be the best of it? Have I really fallen for a radio single?
Well, after a week of steady listening, I’m pleased to report that Only by the Night does not disappoint. The second single “Use Somebody,” is another step in the right direction, though neither single is the best or the worst of the collection – “Manhattan” and “Revelry” are also excellent standout tunes. Without a doubt their best effort so far, Kings of Leon gets a new, heavier grip on their rock n roll roots.