2LP, Gatefold, 180g
RCA (2017) EU
Kings of Leon's second record, Aha Shake Heartbreak, finds the band delving deeper into their rich musical rapport and shared personal history to deliver a fine set of raw, personally-charged rock 'n' roll. The 13-song collection, once again produced by Ethan Johns, reflects the life-changing often traumatic experiences the band underwent during the 18 months that preceded the album's creation. During that time, the band swiftly rose from rural obscurity to bona fide rock stardom overseas, particularly in the U.K., where their 2003 debut Youth & Young Manhood went double platinum.