IT'S hard to believe it was only just over a year ago that the four Tennessee boys of the Kings of Leon released one of the best debut albums since the heady days of punk in the late 70s.

Youth & Young Manhood established the Followill family - three brothers and a cousin - as an honourable distant relation of the bands from the original punk generation, combining their retro influences with modern vibes in a fresh, energetic and gutsy rock sound.

After a summer warming up at festivals, the Kings of Leon kicked off a British tour in Newcastle. An eclectic mix of Dylanesque blues, Violent Femmes shuffle rhythms, rock and roll, r&b, gospel, country and Chuck Berry-style guitar licks, these sons of a preacher are the real deal.

New songs from the forthcoming album Aha Shake Heartbreak were readily accepted by a capacity audience. Again, this reflected a full range of blues, rock and driving r&b. The new single, The Bucket, was warmly received and each clutch of new songs was followed by renditions of classics from the first album. If they get the difficult second album right, the Kings Of Leon will soon be elevated to superstar status.

Support for the evening came from Mooney Suzuki. As always when support bands take to the stage, there's a strong temptation to go to the bar. Not on this occasion.

Dressed in flares, loud shirts and cravats, they were the American equivalent to The Darkness - only better. Having earned their spurs supporting The Strokes and The Hives, this is a band about to get its own place in the sun.

Published: 30/10/2004