Band of Horses weren’t supposed to play the Wiltern. They were set to be on tour opening for Kings of Leon, but after frontman Caleb Followill had a meltdown in Dallas, puked, didn’t finish his set and subsequently claimed “exhaustion” issues, they cancelled the rest of their tour. Based on previous stories about KOL being absurdly pretentious d-bags, I feel no sympathy. However, that left Band of Horses to fend for themselves and pull together a headlining tour, which brought them to Los Angeles last Thursday.

I can’t say enough about them. They somehow manage to sound infinitely better live than on their studio albums, and make even a moderately large venue like the Wiltern feel like they’re playing a private gig in your backyard. They played a long, impressive set, which I’m sure would’ve been chopped down and shortened opening for KOL…not to mention lead singer Ben Bridwell smoked at least two cigarettes during songs, which I reward with +5 badass points. If you like this band at all, make a point to see them live. Though I’m sure KOL would’ve given them big venues…they’re a headliner, and they proved it.

5 Word Review of Band of Horses Live @ the Wiltern:

Thank you, Kings of Leon.

Here’s “Infinite Arms” as a reminder: