Album Review: Arctic Monkeys

Arctic Monkeys: Humbug (Domino)

1. My Propeller
2. Crying Lightning
3. Dangerous Animals
4. Secret Door
5. Potion Approaching
6. Fire & The Thud
7. Cornerstone
8. Dance Little Liar
9. Pretty Visitors
10. The Jeweller's Hands



Britain's most loveable Monkeys are back with their third studio album. After nearly two years of splits, side projects, falling back in love again, Alex and Co offer us the more than aptly named 'Humbug' - a feeling many will have on hearing the 10 tracks included.

Let's be frank, 'Humbug' is dull, monotonous and lacks the energy present on previous albums.

That doesn't mean to say that all of a sudden the Monkeys have lost the plot, it's just that 10 tracks with the same rhythm and style, whilst being lyrically excellent, need breaking up a little with some more upbeat tunes - a formula which worked wonders on 'Whatever People Think I Am...' or 'Favourite Worst Nightmare'

'Humbug' misses a 'Dancing Shoes' or a 'I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor' and in the end it's hard to decide whether you're listening to the Arctic Monkeys or The Last Shadow Puppets.

One for the diehards, not for me. All it did was get me into the Christmas Spirit earlier than usual - humbug!

NME-E rating: 6/10
Top Track: 'Potion Approaching'





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