I never thought I'd be nostalgic for the glory days of Oasis and Suede (not to knock Suede; their first two records were great, but their entire "scene" was pretty tiresome), but if this is the best the British music press can throw at us these days, then the whole thing is pretty much dead. I have
never heard--in my
life--music that was so dependent on attitude as opposed to actual musical talent. It's a series of faux-edgy descriptors--clubbing, getting drunk, etc. etc.--in search of music to carry it. I'd compare it to Mike Skinner of the Streets in its general worldview, except that Skinner has a sense of humor and a real talent for arranging and musicianship, which these guys do not have. I suppose this record's only real strength is its bloody-mindedness: there are
no tracks which deviate from the central style, which is an angular, punky rock hybrid where the lyrics are more spoken than sung. There is not a single memorable moment throughout its entire length. The band attacks this style with such obsession that there is not a second in which the music, or the listener, is allowed space to breathe. This would be an upside--that is, if the music were good. But it isn't. Much has been said about how original many of the songs are, and indeed the band doesn't really dip into the standard grab-bag of punk riffs we've heard a million times. But the problem is they replace it with stuff that is shapeless and inert. There's a reason punk bands keep using those riffs--they're good. They work (just look at Art Brut, who are no geniuses themselves but kick this group's ass in almost every conceivable way). It's not good to simply repeat what other bands have done, yes, but it's hardly an improvement to replace it with original shit.
MY RATING:
1.0
Arctic Monkeys - "Red Light Indicates Doors Are Secured"
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