Like most people out there, I love adore my iPod. It makes my 40-minute morning and afternoon commute tolerable. It also helps me get through those really slow days at work. In other words, I probably couldn’t survive without my iPod.

But despite my undying affection for anything Apple, I really don’t like their iPod commercials, and I especially hate how any featured track/band instantly becomes a hit. I will, however, give Apple credit for choosing music that is slightly off the beaten path, but most times I see the ad so often there is no hope for me ever liking the song again.

With that said, this month’s Artist Spotlight, Kings of Leon, found themselves featured in an iPod commercial a few years back. Luckily, I didn’t pay much attention.

When they released their 3rd studio album Because of the Times earlier this year most of the hype had passed, leaving only the band and their music. After listening to the song “On Call” a few times, I rushed out and purchased the album.

I know this isn’t very descriptive, but Kings of Leon are cool. That’s the best I can come up with. Because of the Times is full of big guitar solos and catchy hooks. This stuff is obviously meant to be played loud.

The band’s sound has definitely progressed over the years. While I enjoy their older stuff, I keep coming back to Because of the Times for its larger-than-life sound. I’ve posted three tracks below: “California Waiting” from Youth & Young Manhood and “On Call” and “McFearless” (such a cool song) from Because of the Times.

I really wanted to post the album closer “Arizona,” but if you like the three tracks below, just buy the whole damn thing, crank up the volume, and enjoy every second of it.

• Kings of Leon – California Waiting
• Kings of Leon – On Call
• Kings of Leon – McFearless