New Releases: Arctic Monkeys

Image via Arctic MonkeysWhen the Arctic Monkeys broke with their 2006 debut album Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not, their initial success took many by surprise. The album became (and still is) the fastest selling debut album in British music industry and it scooped many prestigious music awards. More followed with the release of the second effort, Favourite Worst Nightmare, in 2007 as they continued to rack up chart success and awards with their brand of fast, loud rock and roll about life in Northern England.

This week sees the release of their third album, Humbug. Produced by Queen Of The Stone Age’s Josh Homme, the sound of the album is a radical departure from that of the previous releases. Opening with My Propeller, their trademark cheeky but intelligent lyrics are still there but the fast tempo and crashing guitars are gone, and instead we have a slower, more melodic sound. Crying Lightning, Secret Door, and Dance Little Liar are all stand out tracks in a similar vain.

Potion Approaching, Pretty Visitors, and Sketchead give the tempo of the album a jolt as the trademark loud guitars of the previous albums make a return. These tracks keep the bands spirited music alive without losing any of the melodic complexity that is a common thread of the album.

Humbug shows what a band can do when they challenge themselves and aren’t afraid to move away from their comfort zone. Although I’m sure the album will prove unpopular with some loyal Monkey’s fans, the album is worth seeking out by those looking for an alternative to the 80’s music retread that is slowly evaporating.

Humbug is available on iTunes and you catch the Arctic Monkeys on tour during September including Oakland’s Fox Theater on September 16^th.