polaroids of androids

The problem here is the expectations of a band differing from those of their fans. Generally, people, myself included, who enjoy Kings Of Leon's unique Southern Strokes sound believe their strength lies in their ability to create the own brand of hybrid country meets uber-kool city living pop songs. They have put together some of the most addictive songs of the past five years, sprinkled across two fantastic full length releases. They aren't anyone's all-time favourite band - but they have created a unique sound and more consistently put together pop gems than most others. The band, obviously, has bigger plans. This isn't their album where they become the indie-rock-twang version of U2, it's even more tragic than that. This the album where they try and create an album to conquer the world - and fail.

The seven minute opening track sets the scene. It's a drawn out, over-dramatic affair, that, although could have possibly been better crafted in the hands of a more suited outfit, doesn't fit the indie stylings of the band. Things occasionally pick up at scattered moments throughout the album, but the breakouts are quickly pulled back into line and the majority of the songs sound like forced attempts to break into the hearts of the masses. The standout tracks, sadly limited to parts of songs, more than full tracks, are lost amongst the attempts of a band that has tried to accomplish something that, unfortunately, is either out of spectrum of their sound or just badly orchestrated.