"Fans" is a great song. I think it's just a matter of taking it for what it is and understanding their change in direction.

I read somewhere back stating that they wanted the album to reflect a new turn unpredictable to the audience. I see their approach is more mature, taking the punch out of their caliber to a band that wants to be taken more seriously.

I guess I just prefer their raucous side.

I use to hate this band but their new album has begun to grow on me.

I'd say
 

they most definitely got some catchy songwriting skills but I like everything from "Because of the times" and forward. I'm in a group that has some similar sounds. Perhaps you could check us out? We're called Fellow Bohemian, we're from Orange County.

fellowbohemian.bandcamp.com

I agree. Not a huge fan of their image but their songs are undeniably catchy.

New album coming early next year...can't see it being great for those of us who loved their first 2/3 albums.

this band; a huge flying piece of brown turd that belongs in the pop folder. Kings of Leon never have and never will be considered 'indie & alternative'

They used to be until they sold out.

They used to be until they sold out.

They're still considered alternative though

500th post! Wooooooot

Their fourth album struck me more as them trying to gain mass appeal, but their fifth was pure trash.