A lengthier stretch of U.S. shows kicks off with a mid-February, two-night stand on the Kings' home turf of Nashville, and includes a Feb. 22 performance in New York City; "Aha Shake Heartbreak," the follow-up to 2003's "Youth and Young Manhood," is scheduled for release that same day.

While Kings of Leon have found success in the U.S., their popularity is significantly greater overseas--particularly in Britain, where "Youth and Young Manhood" is nearing double-platinum status; "Aha Shake Heartbreak" was released in that country in November.

The material on "Aha Shake Heartbreak" reflects the "life-changing, often traumatic experiences of the 18 months that preceded the album's creation," during which the band "swiftly rose from sheltered rural obscurity to bona fide stardom overseas," according to a press release, which describes the set as a collection of "twisted tales [that] compellingly confront the darker side of fame, surveying the personal toll of debauchery, overindulgence and fast living."

Kings of Leon--brothers Caleb Followill (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Nathan Followill (drums) and Jared Followill (bass), and first cousin Matthew Followill (lead guitar)--enlisted "Youth and Young Manhood" producer Ethan Johns to oversee the new set. Noted songwriter/producer Angelo also had a hand in the project.