Kings of Leon Brought Subtle Powerhouse Rock to Austin Music Hall

Austin Music Hall was filled with a steamy darkness Saturday eve as gospel music crept through the speakers. Shouts of "f*ck yeah!" filled the air as a packed house awaited the heavenly entrance of Kings of Leon.

Boasting songs from their new album, Only by the Night, along with a few oldies but goodies, the Kings kept a steady pace throughout the set. Though somewhat predictable, their sound is predictable perfection. Sporting clean cuts instead of their typical grunge rock locks, the guys got away with a lack of stage presence, because, well, they are musical royalty. Since Kings of Leon have been around for a few years, the boys have a steady group of followers and know how to please their needs. The show would not have been complete without graceful presentations of some classic hits like "Milk" and "Molly's Chamber," but the crowd really went wild for new tunes including "Sex on Fire" and "Be Somebody." They also carried in a never-been-played-in-Austin song which had jammin' undertones and a bright chorus.

A live performance from the Kings doesn't seem to be much different than listening to them on record. Many listeners appeared to be distracted, some gently bobbed their heads while only a few really got into the moment. But maybe that elusiveness is what makes this band of relatives so mysteriously sexy. With ground-shaking bass, tender melodies and passionate lyrics, the Kings of Leon still deserve their honorary title.

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