Review
"Humbug" by Arctic Monkeys is a wild ride that really shook things up for the band. Released in 2009, it's their third studio album and man, does it pack a punch. The guys decided to switch gears and head out to Joshua Tree, California to record part of it at Rancho de La Luna. That's where they hooked up with Josh Homme from Queens of the Stone Age, and you can definitely hear his influence all over this record.
The sound on "Humbug" is a far cry from their earlier stuff. They've traded in their spiky guitar riffs for something darker and more experimental. You've got elements of psychedelic rock, hard rock, and even some stoner rock vibes going on. The whole album has this eerie, carnival-like atmosphere that's pretty unique. Take a track like "Potion Approaching" - it's a perfect example of their new direction. Alex Turner's vocals have evolved too, taking on a deeper, more mysterious quality.
This album was a real turning point for Arctic Monkeys. It set the stage for their future work and showed that they weren't afraid to take risks and push their boundaries. The way the tracks flow together makes it feel like one cohesive piece of work, rather than just a bunch of songs thrown together. Looking back, "Humbug" was a crucial step in their journey, paving the way for later successes like their album "AM". It's a testament to their ability to evolve and keep things fresh, and that's why it's still such a captivating listen today. - Ethan
Artist Bio
Arctic Monkeys are an indie rock band from Sheffield, England, who started releasing music in 2005 and quickly rose to fame with their debut album Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not. Their sound blends garage rock, post-punk, and later, lounge and glam influences, with witty lyrics from frontman Alex Turner. They’ve picked up multiple Brit Awards and have put out several acclaimed albums, including AM and Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino. Arctic Monkeys are often compared to The Strokes, Franz Ferdinand, and The Libertines. The band is known for constantly evolving their style while staying a staple of modern British rock.
