Arctic Monkeys – AM

Having rejuvenated the British rock scene back in 2006 (is it really that long ago?), the Arctic Monkeys have become one of Britain’s greatest and most revered modern rock acts since the start of the new millennium. But it hasn’t been easy.

Suffering from the proverbial DSAS (difficult second album syndrome) woes, through the acquired tasting Humbug and Suck It and See, the band have seemingly floundered into rock pomposity in the eyes of the general public.

To diehard fans and critics however, the band have been praised for their ambitious musical directions and courage to experiment with new sounds despite having a solid fan base most bands would be happy to cater for without a second thought.

Their latest installment and fifth studio album, AM, continues this trend incorporating a surprisingly effective mix of cool hip-hop downbeats with seedy disco riffs.

Opening tracks Do I Wanna Know and R U Mine exquisitely set the tone styling vintage Monkeys riffage with devilishly brooding undertones already becoming heavily requested songs in the bands live sets.

Superbly lacing the album are a series of ghostly falsetto-backing harmonies that reek of Queens of the Stone Age influences most notably their recent masterpiece …Like Clockwork. Josh Homme even lends vocals on tracks One For The Road and Knee Socks, which is no surprise since they’re all good friends living next door to one another.

Amongst the sleaze-driven guitar licks and razor sharp Turner-penned lyrics sits the albums centerpiece, No.1 Party Anthem, a piano based ballad that echoes visions of I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor only through more bitter and sordid eyes.

Perhaps the most appealing aspect of this album is how comfortable the band appears to sound in their new groove, something that has eluded them since their debut album.

Having now tried their hand at numerous music genres, AM seems to reserve the sound the Arctic Monkeys have been chasing since dropping the cheeky, rosy-cheeked northerner image for the more suave LA rockabilly look. Here’s hoping there’s more to come.

Jack Hill

AM is released on 6^th September 2013. For further information or to order the album visit Arctic Monkeys’ website here.

Watch the video for Do I Wanna Know? here: