When Arctic Monkeys formed in 2002, they had no idea where their musical journey would take them. Since then, they have released 6 studio albums, ranging from 'Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not', with its punk and garage rock influences to the more indie-pop-sounding, 'Suck It and See'. They even tried some jazzy and melodic piano in their latest album, 'Tranquility Base Hotel and Casino'. Although not all of their fans have appreciated their constant experimentation with different genres, it is this that proves that Alex Turner is one of the most talented musicians of this generation.
Even before their first album, Arctic Monkeys were releasing skilfully-crafted masterpieces in their early demos and EPs. Some of their most well-known tracks like Bet You Look Good on The Dance Floor and Fake Tales of San Francisco were first recorded to be handed out for free at their gigs. The band quickly gained popularity because of their upbeat, punchy and aggressive tracks that combined indie rock, garage rock and punk rock into their own Arctic Monkey’s style.
Their first album was a roaring success. 'Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not' is often cited as one of the best rock albums of its decade as well as being awarded countless accolades and five star reviews. Despite their success, the band decided to change their style when writing their second album, 'Favourite Worst Nightmare', by including much faster and energetic rhythms as well as some slow and melodic sections in-between.
“Humbug” came next: an equally energetic record but with smoother and jazzier vocals as well as some experimentation with different guitar effects. Following that, Arctic Monkey fans were greeted with another fantastic LP in 2011. 'Suck It and See' would be almost unrecognisable as an Arctic Monkey’s album if it wasn’t for Alex Turner’s slick vocals and intriguing lyrics as well as Nick O’Malley’s punchy bass lines. Unlike their previous albums, 'Suck It and See' is a compilation of much softer indie-pop and rock tunes which truly capture the complexity of human emotions.
Two years later, Arctic Monkeys released their most well-known and commercially successful album: “AM”. 2013 was the year Arctic Monkeys made a name for themselves, their record reaching the top of the charts in numerous countries including the US. Since their formation in 2002, the band had developed their style to complete perfection: funky, up-beat indie rock. They even started using more instruments and different effects on Matt Helders’ drum kit and the guitars.
It would be un-Arctic-Monkeys-like, however, if they had continued writing in that style. Their latest album explores a range of futuristic, psychedelic piano-based sounds. Although many fans and reviewers have criticised the album for its complete diversion from the style of their previous record, the songs are certainly very accomplished and the lyrics are an interesting montage of ultramodern vocabulary. After a few listens, it is easy to warm to Alex Turner’s new obsession for glam-rock and it is hard not to enjoy the aura surrounding the album: a sense of experimentation and discovery.
Now, in 2019, it is almost impossible to guess what Arctic Monkeys will do next. When they won the Brit Awards in 2014, Alex Turner proclaimed in his acceptance speech, “Yeah, that rock'n'roll, it seems like it's faded away sometimes, but it will never die.” It seems as if the band is hoping to return to its roots and write something similar to their first few albums. However, with a front-man like Alex Turner, who knows where they will go?
It is clear to see that Alex Turner is a constant creative output. As well as writing for these six completely unique and talent-filled albums, he has also written many EPs and B-Sides for this band as well as albums and singles for his two side projects, Death Ramps and The Last Shadow Puppets. Every single song he writes is not only beautiful, but original… And this is what makes him and the entire band such gifted musicians.
Tranquillity Base Hotel and Casino is available on all streaming services