In 2006, Kings of Leon were invited by Bob Dylan to open his show at the Forum, but even then it was clear that they were already headed for big things on their own. With their latest album, Mechanical Bull, the Nashville band of brothers (and one cousin) prove that it's still possible to make intelligent use of guitars in non-retro ways. Amid a swarm of jangling rhythm guitars and Matthew Followill's glimmering lead, singer Caleb Followill announces, “Down in the Delta, I'm ringing bells … I've got a secret picking at my brain.” Even as Caleb sees that “flags are flying across the plains,” the rest of the group echoes his euphoric wanderlust with a surging, accompanying crash of Nathan's drums and Jared's bass.

Fri., March 21, 8 p.m., 2014
(Expired: 03/21/14)

Advertising disclosure: We may receive compensation for some of the links in our stories. Thank you for supporting LA Weekly and our advertisers.