Just noticed the review formatting has returned, thank god for that
Just noticed the review formatting has returned, thank god for that
Member since:29.08.2002
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They arrived on the music scene with a huge groundswell that seen them record one of the fastest selling debut albums of all time. The internet buzz about the Arctic Monkeys for the year before that release was huge. The debut album really was a hit but how could they follow that up? Well this week has seen the release of the follow up, Favourite Worst Nightmare. The obvious doubts have been there about whether they would be a one record wonder or whether they had a little more substance to their musical ability. So having pre ordered this album weeks ago it finally arrived on Monday giving me a chance to answer the questions I had.
Obviously the band have moved on from the place they were at whilst writing the debut. The last year has really matured the band and that is evident in the Sheffield 4 piece’s music. A small line up change also seems to have had a slight impact on the bands sound. The album was put together
in an East London studio under the watchful eye of new “rave” producer James Ford. From the moment the track starts it is obvious that the Arctic’s have matured a bit and changed direction. The album appears to have a heavier edge to it than the previous number.
The album still seems to be in a way the same as the previous album but on the whole there are a couple of songs on the last album that seem to be from the same vein as the majority of this. If you enjoyed “From Ritz to the Rubble” or “View from the Afternoon” from the debut album then this album is on the surface more of that type of track. Under the surface thought the album is a lot deeper and seems to hold a lot of hidden meaning and passion that really reflects through within the music and vocals.
Of course for Turner and Co this is probably just another days work. They seem to make songs like these sound so easy and laid back. It’s clear though that the experiences of the last year have really made a good impression on the band. This album is far louder and faster than the previous one, with the guitars really leading the way, to the point where a number of the tracks are quite in your face. The bass backs them up well and the drum beat in the background gives the guitars a sense of direction and purpose.
Likewise Turner has moved on in his ability to write songs. Ok from the first few listens I didn’t find as many of the tracks to be as catchy as those on the debut, but I think given time they will become just as memorable. Turner seems to but a lot of feeling into his lyrics and that reflects through his vocals as well. Again like everything on this album he seems to have matured in ever aspect and I think it’s that factor that has meant I actually like this album more than the debut.
Having now listened to the album countless times there are a few tracks that really stood out. The first single from the album “Brainstorm” had made an impact on me from the first time I heard it on the radio. It contributes to quite a frantic and awkward start to the album, but as it turns out it’s an excellent way to kick it off. My favourite track has changed quite a bit since I got the album but at the moment I would have to say that “This House Is a Circus” tops the list.
It’s quite a fast paced track that really pulls no punches. It starts off at a gentler pace but very quickly the pace picks up with a good combination of guitars, bass and drums. It’s a subtle start that really turns into a roaring track that really sums up the album as a whole. There are a couple of slower tracks and it’s clear that “Only Ones Who Know” will take a lot of listening to grow on you but it is a track that will through time be just as easy to listen to as the rest of the album.
Overall I have to admit to being pleasantly surprised by the Arctic Monkeys second album. I was a little worried it wouldn’t live up to the first album but this more mature effort from the Monkeys has really caught my attention. It goes to prove that the band have some sustenance and will be around for a long time to come. If you’ve been enjoying the debut album for the last year or so then you will love this follow up. Likewise if you aren’t one of the people who made their debut the fastest selling debut album in UK chart history this may have something a little different for you. Either way just buy this record!!
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Fantastic Review. I really enjoy your kind of writing.
4ku-Papa 20.10.2007 14:07
Great review - well researched and informative. I found this album to be a real grower. On the first listen it's certainly not as catchy as their first but as you rightly point out, it's a lot deeper and mature.
lucuzade 11.06.2007 21:33
Great Review; you've clearly done your research and definatly deserve this exceptional!!
Advantages: A couple of pretty decent tracks, stylistically not a bad album. Disadvantages: The tracks are often incredibly lacklustre, the music lacks passion.
Advantages: A couple of pretty decent tracks, stylistically not a bad album. Disadvantages: The tracks are often incredibly lacklustre, the music lacks passion.
![Favourite Worst Nightmare [VINYL] - Arctic Monkeys](http://picnica.ciao.com/uk/89901054.jpg "Favourite Worst Nightmare [VINYL] - Arctic Monkeys")
Apr 27th, 2007
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