Better reviews

Despite being a firm believer that the hype surrounding New Yorkshire's success story, Arctic Monkeys, is entirely justified I didn't want to believe the latest hype surrounding them... that their new single was somewhat lacking. But I am pleased to say that on this occasion, people definitely should not believe the hype. It's understandable that this negative response has been circulating, as on the first listen of 'Leave Before The Lights Come On', the thing that grabs your attention is that there isn't anything in particular that is grabbing your attention. It sounds like the 'Monkeys alright, with Turner's distinctive northern lyrics and the classic, energetic 'Monkeys musical style, but there is something missing, that something that has previously been shoved in your face and made you stand up and pay attention to this band that have been critically acclaimed just about everywhere this past year. Imagine Arctic Monkeys were a wind up toy, which was fully wound up last summer prior to the release of 'Whatever People Say I Am... '. First impressions of this song make like they're finally running out of steam and are in need of being wound up again pretty soon... However, before the inevitable backlash happens and the 'Monkeys become just another indie band who has had their ten minutes of glory, have another listen. Alex Turner tells the tale of waking up next to someone after a heavy night out, and things looking that little bit different in the light of day. Bittersweet regret is the sentiment, with lyrics such as "Quick, let's leave, before the lights come on / 'Cos then you don't have to see / 'Cos then you don't have to see / What you've done" and "And how can you wake up / With someone you don't love? / And not feel slightly fazed by it". The song previously criticised for not being bold or instantly catchy compared to 'I Bet That You Look Good On The Dancefloor' or 'When The Sun Goes Down' now seems to fit these lyrics, with the muted, almost passive sound of 'Leave Before The Lights Come On' perfectly complimenting these bittersweet sentiments. 'Leave Before The Lights Come On' is a different direction for the Arctic Monkeys, and they have proven that they can still deliver a good quality, thought provoking, social critiquing tune without relying on the instantly catchy boldness that has accompanied the previous songs. Nice work boys.

Rank: * * * *

by Lisa Farrell for leedsmusicscene.net