Listed: Arctic Monkeys' Top Albums
"Every fan, just like me, has got their own thoughts on the band's ever-changing sound throughout their career," I said with a casual shrug. The Arctic Monkeys, a band that's as iconic as they are unpredictable, have been shaking up the music scene for years.
Starting with their garage rock revolution in the early 2000s, they shifted the indie music landscape, moving away from Britpop and opening up new conversations about guitar music. Arctic Monkeys never plays it safe; each album acts as its own era, its own grand design, exploring themes ranging from romance to retro revivalism, dance pop, and post-punk, among others.
As they return for a third headline spot at Glastonbury in 2023, armed with their new album, "The Car," I can't help but reminisce about their impressive discography. Let's take a look at where their albums rank, based on my personal experience:
7. The Car(2022)
This album leans more towards a solo project for frontman Alex Turner than a full-band effort. It's a bit smoother than their last album, losing some of the edge that made them stand out in the first place. The album does have some beautiful orchestrations and production choices, but it just doesn't quite match up to previous Arctic Monkeys releases.
6. Suck It and See(2011)
I view this album as stuck between a rock and a hard place, nestled between two tectonic shifts in the band's discography. It features some strong songs, like "Suck It and See" and "She's Thunderstorms," but it's sometimes inconsistent, with the group seeming unsure about where to go next.
5. Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino(2018)
This is an album that I think deserves a second chance from its detractors. It's a glittery, 70's soaked chamber pop album that showcases Turner's most esoteric lyricism yet. While it may not be everyone's cup of tea, it's still a concise and holistic experience with some exceptional songs.
4. Humbug (2009)
This album showed the band's ability to seamlessly change up their sound and go against expectations. It features the lauded influence of Nick Cave and Black Sabbath, creating a sludgy psychedelic rock vibe that's both unique and memorable.
3. AM(2013)
Looking back ten years later, there are few albums that I can say defined my emergence into young adult life better than AM. It radiated a confidence and an attitude that resonated with me, just as a group of newly 18-year-olds were venturing out into the world. Packed with undeniable earworms and idiosyncratic lyricism, it's still a force to be reckoned with.
2. Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not(2006)
This album is an essential dance-punk album that is raw, groovy, and intense. It showcased a younger, more poetic side of Alex Turner, while holding a legacy for being one of the first albums to gain notoriety and a fanbase through the use of the internet and social media.
1. Favourite Worst Nightmare(2007)
As a 12-year-old discovering new music, "Favourite Worst Nightmare" had a significant impact on me. It's an album of vigor and intensity with an expanded sonic palette and production choices that demonstrate their desire to develop and move forward. It's not only an essential piece in the band's discography but also in the broader history of contemporary music.
- The music discovery journey led me to appreciate the indie music gem, 'Favourite Worst Nightmare' by Arctic Monkeys, which was a significant influence in my childhood and broader music entertainment.
- Arctic Monkeys' music, particularly their masterpiece 'Favourite Worst Nightmare', has had a profound impact on my musical preferences, featuring dance-punk elements and showcasing the band's ability to push the boundaries of guitar music.
