Kings Of Leon ignited the State Fayre festival like a match to dry wood, setting ablaze an unforgettable night on the inaugural Thursday performance at Chelmsford's Hylands Park. As the heatwave sweltered over Essex, the Tennessee quartet drenched the main stage in their own special brand of sonic fire, serving up a set that left fans in awe.
The festival itself was an exercise in musical alchemy – blending rock, Americana, and country influences with American-inspired grub, décor, and fairground fun. The aroma of sizzling barbecues wafted through the air as Kings Of Leon began their set, a potent reminder that this was no ordinary UK music event. Frontman Caleb Followill declared to the rapt audience: "This feels like being home" – a sentiment buoyed by the warm weather and the festival's US-centric theme.
The band tore into their performance with 'Find Me', before unleashing a string of anthems that had everyone singing along in perfect harmony. The setlist was a masterclass in songwriting, as they rattled through fan favourites like 'The Bucket', 'Fans', 'On Call', and the timeless classic 'Use Somebody'. But it wasn't just about the hits – Kings Of Leon also treated their UK fans to some of their newer material, including 'Waste A Moment', 'Closer', and the explosive 'Sex On Fire'.
The State Fayre festival still has a weekend full of music left in store for its devoted followers. Today, Friday, will see Alanis Morissette bring her trademark fire to the main stage – a welcome replacement for Neil Young, who cancelled his UK and European tour dates earlier this year. Skunk Anansie are also on board for today's proceedings. The festival will conclude on Saturday with The Lumineers taking centre stage, but in between, expect electrifying performances from Elvis Costello & The Imposters with Charlie Sexton, Counting Crows, and many more.
Kings Of Leon's appearance at State Fayre is part of a string of UK and Ireland dates that will see the band bring their high-octane live show to Belfast next week, followed by gigs in Limerick, Glasgow, Manchester, and Leeds. With their latest album 'Can We Please Have Fun' still fresh off the press in 2024, it's clear this is a band relishing their time in the spotlight – and ready to bring the noise.