Kings of Leon, Can We Please Have Fun Review

by Seamus Fitzpatrick

Kings of Leon, the Tennessee-bred rock band known for their Southern rock roots and arena-worthy anthems, are back with their ninth studio album, Can We Please Have Fun. Released in May 2024, the album title hints at a return to a more carefree sound, a departure from some of their more introspective recent work. We will touch on the musical styles, songwriting themes, production quality, and overall impression of Can We Please Have Fun.

While Can We Please Have Fun retains Kings of Leon’s signature blend of Southern, punk, and alternative rock, there’s a noticeable shift towards a more diverse sound. Here’s a breakdown of the critical influences of some of the standout selections. “Mustang” and “Nowhere to Run” showcase the band’s familiar driving guitars, beating drums, and Caleb Followill’s powerful vocals. These songs evoke their earlier albums like Because of the Times and offer a strong influence of classic Southern Rock with today’s alternative and punk vibes.

The album also explores the pop side of alternative rock territory with tracks like “Rainbow Ball” featuring punk elements, and “Split Screen” leans towards Britpop. “Rainbow Ball” has a driving rhythm section and a catchy interplay between the melodic vocals and various guitar parts. With elements of power pop rock, its raw energy and catchy melody will ring in your ears long after the final notes.  “Split Screen” has a dream pop or shoegaze influence paired with its alternative rock-layered guitars and hazy atmosphere. “Actual Daydream” surprise with ska and “M Television” elements dips into New Wave territory. Overall, the album presents a more adventurous Kings of Leon, experimenting with new sounds while staying true to their rock roots.

Despite the title’s carefree spirit, the lyrical themes on Can We Please Have Fun are not always lighthearted. Mustang captures a sense of youthful rebellion and freedom, while Split Screen offers introspective and even nostalgic glimpses. “Hesitation Gen,” with its driving guitars masking lyrics about uncertainty and searching, exemplifies this balance. This interplay creates a sense of hope that acknowledges life’s complexities, making the album enjoyable and thought-provoking.

Produced by Kid Harpoon, known for his work with Harry Styles and Florence + the Machine, the album boasts a clean and crisp sound with a subtle rawness that allows the band’s energy to shine. The tight performances from all members are a testament to their musicianship. Caleb Followill demonstrates impressive vocal range and versatility, adapting his delivery to suit the mood of each song. The production choices further elevate his vocals. For instance, “Don’t Stop The Bleeding” features clean and warm vocals, while “Nowhere To Run” utilizes effects reverb and delay to create a moodier atmosphere. This attention to detail in the production creates a cohesive listening experience despite the album’s exploration of diverse musical styles.

Can We Please Have Fun demonstrates the band’s continued relevance and ability to evolve without losing their core identity. With its energetic vibe, exploration of diverse musical styles, and Caleb Followill’s captivating vocals, Can We Please Have Fun is a perfect entry point for new listeners to discover Kings of Leon’s unique brand of rock and roll, offering a taste of their past while hinting at exciting new directions for the future. That’s the short of it!

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