Arctic Monkeys Love Is A Laserquest

Experience has taught me not to get too excited by a new Arctic Monkeys album. With Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Notarguably the best debut since Is This It (by The Strokes), "second album syndrome" was likely to effect the Sheffield four-piece more than others. The second album Favourite Worst Nightmare was no bad thing, but paled in comparison to their debut. Where I feel it really went wrong was with third album, Humbug. While some were excited to hear a natural progression of their sound, most fans were disillusioned by the lack of energy (which had characterised their previous work) in this album.

With the overbearing Josh Homme influence, I honestly struggle to name a standout track from that album. With Suck It and See, we have what feels like the natural progression from Favourite Worst Nightmare. Yes, the sound has matured hugely from the bands early days, but the rawness and energy which defined them as one of the most exciting British bands of the time is back in spades.

Tracks like "Library Pictures" sound like a Favourite Worst Nightmare B-side, while closer "That's Where You're Wrong" calls David Bowie to mind. However, the best track is probably "Reckless Serenade," which really marks a return to form for the Monkeys.

This album is contextually quite similar to Angles. With the first album blowing away all expectations, the second falling slightly short, and the third a complete write off, there are clear parallels with The Strokes. Similarly, fans will be hoping that this album marks something of a return to the good old days, and I think it might do just that.