Showing posts with label arctic monkeys. Show all posts
Showing posts with label arctic monkeys. Show all posts
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Just Announced: Arctic Monkeys


Western New York's concert scene is definitely taking it up a notch this year, and there's no better evidence of that than today's announcement that Brit band of the moment Arctic Monkeys, will be playing Artpark on June 18th. OK, that's not completely fair to the pride of Sheffield (position previously held by Pulp), who've been kicking around and building up to this moment for over 10 years, and they're taking full advantage with an expanding tour that's bringing them far and wide across our great nation and to our neck of the woods. Frankly we're usually skipped over by these big UK band shows, so this is entirely refreshing and something of a big deal... especially with the nice advance general admission ticket price of $10 and $25 for in front of the stage. Tickets go on sale this Friday at 10 AM.



Cliff Parks
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Album Review: Arctic Monkeys - AM


Arctic Monkeys' “I Bet You Look Good On The Dance Floor” is a song 2006 music listeners are very familiar with. Though the band grew from exciting live shows, Myspace popularity, and a DIY internet buzz, the Arctic Monkeys' initial allure was greatly caused by “IBYLGOTDF.” The ingredients: high energy, a message about dancing girls, and Alex Turner's distinct yet indisputably catchy vocals. On AM, the Monkeys' fifth studio album, there are little traces left of that original pop-punk magic. The band certainly tries to go for a new and honest approach, yet many album songs' lack catchiness and sound like the boring cousins of the Black Keys.

AM's biggest problem is that it's just too slow. Opening track, “Do I Wanna Know,” has a somewhat hook heavy and circular guitar riff, yet it just feels plodding. Many other tracks suffer in similar ways and actually blend together due to recurring drum patterns and spaciousness. From “One For The Road,” to “Arabella,” to “Why'd You Only Call Me When Your High,” the differences in songs are all too subtle.

At most, AM owns two good tracks. The first, “Number One Party Anthem,” is a slow, piano ballad about the sad truths of club life. There is a honesty behind Alex Turner's voice that is impressive, especially when compared with the earlier Arctic Monkeys. The other is “Fireside,” a cool and groove focused tune. The drums sound fabulous on this song in particular, and the vocals are a little more reverberated for that mystery effect.

Ultimately, this is not a must have album and should only be listened to if you are big Arctic Monkeys fan (though you still may not like it because of the band's “new” sound). However, “Fireside” is a strong song that should be checked out below.

 Grade:  B-




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