More than 20,000 music fans packed into Co-op Live on Saturday night to see Kings of Leon, the Tennessee rock band that has been a staple of the indie scene for over two decades. Despite swirling rumours about a possible Oasis appearance at the nearby Etihad Stadium, it was the Followill brothers—Caleb, Nathan, Jared, and cousin Matthew—who took the stage and delivered a near two-hour set.
A Career-Spanning Set
The band leaned heavily on their first four albums, including breakout singles like Red Morning Light (from 2003's Youth & Young Manhood) and The Bucket (from 2005's Aha Shake Heartbreak). They also played tracks from 2007's Because of the Times and 2008's Only by the Night, which catapulted them to global fame with hits Sex on Fire and Use Somebody. Newer songs like Supersoaker and Waste a Moment fit seamlessly into the setlist.
No Drama, Just Hits
Unlike some other famous brother acts, there was no on-stage tension. The band sped through their hits without slowing down, except for album cuts like Cold Desert. Lead singer Caleb Followill was in a chatty mood, honouring the US Independence Day and praising the Manchester crowd as one of the best he had experienced. The sell-out audience sang back every verse and chorus, often drowning out Caleb's vocals.
Enduring Appeal
Although Kings of Leon may not fill 12 nights like Oasis, this show was a reminder of their staying power. From their garage rock revival roots to their current status as rock royalty, the band continues to enthral fans young and old. The 4/5 star rating reflects a solid performance that celebrated their legacy while looking forward.
