On October 21st Arctic Monkeys released their seventh studio album titled The Car this is a heavily orchestrated funk/rock blend that has received mixed reviews from fans.
The comeback was heavily anticipated after their 4-year stint of inactivity. The Car very much picks up where Tranquillity base left off with its psychedelic funk and mystifying lyrics from lead man Alex Turner who has definitely been channelling his inner David Bowie. This album feels like its own dystopian cinematic universe as it flows together from one lavish orchestral arrangement to another.
A big complaint from fans is that the band has lost its sound but I feel like they are still discovering it. A valid complaint from tranquillity was that they didn’t use the guitars and drums enough and they had felt that Jamie Cook and Matt Helders had been pushed to the side but I feel like in this album they made a comeback.
Matt’s drumming is ever present and fluent in this album after his powerful solos and vibrant patterns on the older albums he has mastered the rhythmic flow of funky lounge style drumming and it fits perfectly on this album. Jamie Cook also had a comeback on this Album with some of those weaponised guitar riffs on songs like Hello you and Mr Schwartz. Bringing these two back into the fold definitely answered a lot of critiques.
I am singling out Nick O’Malley because he was flawless on this album if you listen to those bass riffs, he has really upped his game and it shows why he is so important to this band he is like a wizard wielding a magical staff of funky bass riffs. If you listen to I ain’t quite where I think I am you’ll see why I say this.
This is Alex Turner at his most creative and mystifying, his lyrics tell a story we aren’t sure what story but we want to listen to it. His voice is deep in some parts and high in others and it shows that range he has developed but it shows true skill how he can switch it up but stay so smooth and velvety.
My summary of this album is if you’re looking for that new car smell this album will not be giving you that but if you’re looking for a mature complete velvety sound this album is perfect. Its faultless for long journeys and those moments where you want to sit down and take in some good 'vibey' music.
The Car peeked at Number 2 in the UK charts and Number 1 in the US Alt/Rock charts finally showing that they are big in the USA.
Notable Tracks: Body Paint, I ain’t Quite Where I think I am, There’d better be a Mirrorball.
Reset Score: 7.5/10
By WILL
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