Alternative rockers Kings of Leons have returned with their new single 2013 "Supersoaker," off their upcoming sixth studio album Mechanical Bull. After performing the song live on their European tour and releasing the album artwork last week, the "Use Somebody" band debuted the song last night (July 17) on a BBC Radio 1 show.
According to NME, bassist Jared Followill has stated that the KOL's new album 2013 will be more musically complicated and reminiscent of their debut Youth and Young Manhood and Aha Shake Heartbreak.
In finally hearing the studio version of "Supersoaker," there is some truth in that advertising. The light, gangly guitars that open the track recall the very opening track of 2004's Aha Shake Heartbreak, "Slow Night, So Long." The busy, fast paced guitars are kept largely in the upper register as they rush and soar. Small blips of a bass and light, steady drumming create a highly youthful sounding song, a surprising feat considering the Followill brothers (and cousin) have been in the music game for a decade.
Caleb Followill's vocals on "Supersoaker," however, are reminiscent of his howling on Kings of Leon's more recent efforts, 2009's Only By The Night and 2010's Come Around Sundown. There is a notable restraint behind his raspy screams and the soaring melody and occasional harmonies on the "walk away" in the chorus are the most mature facets of the track.
"Supersoaker" is easily stronger than anything from Come Around Sundown. Old school fans will be pleased from the song's instrumentation and throwback sound. New fans will be delighted by Caleb's vocals, the mid-range tempo and heartfelt harmonies.
In essence, it seems as though Kings of Leon have finally blended together the old and the new on "Supersoaker," to move forward in to the next stage of their career, finally pinpointing exactly what they want to be as a band again.
Listen to "Supersoaker" off Mechanical Bull now below. The song is available for download and streming today. Kings of Leon's new album will hit shelves Sept. 24.
