Kings of Leon took the stage a little after 8:45 p.m., which was graced in a red backdrop, and their presence was met with a standing ovation. A pulsating beat took over the venue, where a beating heart displayed on the giant televised screen, signaling the band’s appearance.
They kicked off their set with “Conversation Piece,” which featured Caleb Followill’s rich, husky voice, coupled with stunning instrumentals as purple lights dimmed from the stage. This opening song was met with a warm response. “How are you guys doing?” Caleb asked. “We’re Kings of Leon.” They immediately broke into “Taper Jean Girl” with its “Aha shake” hooks, and they picked up the pace with the infectious “The Bucket,” where a Rubik’s Cube-esque backdrop displayed on the stage.
“Mary” was more laid-back and mellow, with a tropical, Oasis background, while the mid-tempo “California Waiting” featured images of the quartet playing live.
One of the highlight tracks from the first half of the show included “Notion,” where the fans were singing and dancing along. “How is everybody doing tonight? ” Caleb asked. “You guys want to have fun? I know it’s Tuesday. but I know you want to have fun.”
They continued with the acoustic guitar-driven “Fans,” and it was followed by their signature song, “Use Somebody,” which garnered the most enormous response, as every iPhone in the venue, was raised up, filming this musical moment, as it was the song that won them the prestigious 2010 Grammy awards for “Record of the Year,” “Best Rock Song” and “Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.”
During the acoustic portion of the show, Kings of Leon delivered on such songs as the drum-driven “Milk,” as well as “Talihina Sky,” with their soaring harmonies. They incorporated “Pyro” as a neat sing-along with the audience, and the haunting “WALLS” was equally delightful.
Other noteworthy tunes included “Radioactive,” “Back Down South,” “The Immortals” and “Cold Desert.” After “Supersoaker,” the band closed with “Sex on Fire” and “Waste a Moment.”
The Verdict
Overall, Kings of Leon were able to rock out the Jones Beach Theater on Long Island. Their set was superb from start to finish, and it was highly eclectic. They gave the fans exactly what they wanted. Their show garnered an A rating.
To learn more about the rock group Kings of Leon, check out their official website.
