Released in 2013, “AM” by Arctic Monkeys remains a seminal album that showcases the band’s evolution and musical talents. With its fusion of indie rock, garage rock and elements of R&B, “AM” captivated audiences worldwide and solidified Arctic Monkeys’ status as one of the numerous influential bands of their generation. Presenting future generations with interesting songs to sing for years to come, this album proves how timeless music exists.
“Smart, randy, and touched by genius, the Sheffield band’s fifth album is an absolute triumph from start to finish. Arctic Monkeys’ fifth record is absolutely and arguably the most incredible album of their career. It might be the greatest record of the last decade,” Mike Williams at NME said.
The album opens with the band’s biggest hit, “Do I Wanna Know?” This song sets the tone for the album with its alluring and sultry atmosphere. The track’s sensual groove, combined with Alex Turner‘s seductive vocals and ear-catching lyricism creates an irresistible feeling that captivates listeners from the first note. The song’s honest lyrics and hypnotic rhythm make it an instant classic and a fan favorite. Turner opens the song with “Have you got colour in your cheeks?” which encapsulates the entire feeling of the album and keeps listeners hooked. Though this track does not come off as a sexual track, the sultry elements of this song grant the song this title.
Other tracks on the album easily provide listeners with the same feeling as “Do I Wanna Know?.” The album contains other seductive hits that leave listeners feeling satisfied until the next track plays. Songs such as “One For the Road,” “Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High?” and “I Wanna Be Yours,” stick out due to their attractiveness and tantalizing tone. With lyrics such as “There’s no need to show me ’round, baby / I feel like I’ve been here before,” on “One For The Road” and “You call the shots, babe / I just wanna be yours,” on “I Wanna Be Yours”, this album holds a romantic tone. Though these songs boast seductive instrumentals and lyrics, songs such as “Arabella,” “Knee Socks,” “R U Mine?” and “I Want It All” use rock elements to convey romantic feelings.
“R U Mine?” along with “Arabella” present as high-energy rock anthems that showcase Arctic Monkeys’ ability to fuse lust with catchy beats. These tracks explain desire and attraction toward a recurring mystery woman. The lyrics, filled with longing and attraction perfectly complement the electrifying instrumentation, making these two stand out as rock hits on the album.
“This album is so mesmerizing. There’s something Arctic Monkeys put into this album because it’s so good. My favorite song is ‘Arabella’ but the selection is so good, it’s difficult to choose from. I recommend everyone listen to this album at least once. It’ll change your life,” NC senior A’myra Mitchell said.
Though this album contains several popular tracks, the collection of songs also contains multiple sleeper hits. Songs such as “Knee Socks,” “Snap Out Of It,” “I Want It All” and “No. 1 Party Anthem” did not receive the same amount of recognition as other tracks, but they still contributed a great amount to the album and helped its cohesiveness. These songs still combine elements of lust and desire but in different ways. These songs brilliantly contrast each other and help strengthen the album.
Like every album produced, certain songs tend to rank in the lower tiers. In “AM’s” case, only a couple of songs received this ranking. Tracks such as “Fireside” and “Mad Sounds” did not receive love publicly, but served as hidden gems for those a part of the fandom. Their place on the album may not receive praise, but they receive love from true fans.
“AM” overall holds a special place in the alternative genre; this album shaped the band and gave them a place in mainstream music. The album never bores listeners and keeps massive audiences continuously coming back.
