Search - Arctic Monkeys :: Favourite Worst Nightmare

It's very hard to top their first album, but...

Anthony Rupert | Milwaukee, WI | 05/01/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Picture this: a band of guys that are barely adults come out of nowhere and create an album that although doesn't sell a WHOLE lot (well, in the U.S., anyway), it makes such an impact that it was the fastest selling debut album EVER in their native England, and it was even nominated for two Grammys in the States. Yes, I'm talking about Arctic Monkeys and their electrifying debut, Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not. But then the question is, how do you measure up to something like that? The answer: make an album like Favourite Worst Nightmare.



I initially thought the Monkeys would be taking a break after bassist Andy Nicholson quit the band just before last year's North American tour (which I wish I was at, but it doesn't matter; nobody ever comes to Milwaukee anyway). But in came new bassist Nick O'Malley, and he blends in quite well with the other members. Alex's songwriting is invigorating as always, and he and the rest of the band continue to impress, as shown by tracks like "Old Yellow Bricks" and "Teddy Picker".



One song that I have to mention, though, is the lead single "Brianstorm" (not brainstorm; "BRIANstorm"). That's the album's opening track, and the way those guitars start just blow you away AND invite you in at the same time. It's also interesting to hear a few mellow tracks that don't sound so clichéd, like "Only Ones Who Know" and "505". Speaking of romantic tunes, "The Bad Thing" is pretty funny.



I also like the metaphorical "Balaclava" (which is the proper term for a ski mask; at first I thought it was a unique way of saying "baklava"), but my favorite song on the album would have to be...hell, ALL of them. I don't know what's more impressive, that the Monkeys made another great album, or that they did it all in less than forty minutes. Whatever the case, pick up Favourite Worst Nightmare NOW.



Anthony Rupert"

Great second album... Not sure I understand the UK sales str

Paul Allaer | Cincinnati | 04/26/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Arctic Monkeys are a UK phenomenon, with last year's debut album "Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not" selling more than any other debut album, EVER, in UK chart history. It was a great album, no question. Now, only a year later, comes the follow-up album.



"Farvourite Worst Nightmare" (12 tracks, 37 min.) shows the band maturing. While there are still many hard charging songs, such as the lead-off track (and irresistable first single) "Brianstorm", there is a darker side to this album as well. The album is neatly divided into two 6 song cycles, recalling the good ol' vinyl album days. On the first half, in addition to the previously mentioned "Brianstorm", highlights include the urgent "Teddy Picker", the reggae-flavored "Fluorescent Adolescent" and the pensive "Only Ones Who Know". On the second half, my personal favorites are "This House Is a Circus", "If You Were There, Beware" (with great guitar licks,even a solo), and the closer, a misleading 'ballad' "505". In all, quite a satisfying album. I enjoyed it from start to finish and at 37 min. it clips by in no time.



I'm still not sure I understand the UK frenzy over this. I read that the album sold close to 100,000 there on the first day of the release earlier this week. Say what? That said, Arctic Monkeys bring great music, and this album confirms it. I will see them live at Coachella this coming weekend and I can't wait to check them out live to see what the UK hype is all about."

An excellent album from an excellent band

M. Herzog | chicago | 04/28/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Hype is unfair to everyone involved, be it the artist being held to lofty expectations, or to the fan, who rarely can have expectations met. Arctic Monkeys are trapped in the Hype controversey which is unfair, and ignores the band's talent and ability. Their first album was amazing, and with catchy hooks for a fun night on the town. Some liked it, others didn't. This second album will most likely not change anyone's mind who did not like the first. First, the band chose a darker sound with a harsher edge, hurting the fun aspect of the first album. Then there is the issue that there are nothing quite as catchy as I Bet You Look Good On the Dance Floor. But that would again put them into an unfair expectation category to judge them by their past album. As an album, this is a great record, the music works, tight production, and feels like something to put in your car when out on a saturday night with friends. An excellent album. Enjoy it."