It's always difficult for a band who experience tremendous success at a young age, writing songs based on adolescent experiences to be allowed to progress beyond those early years. Although their original audience age alongside, there can be an expectation biology won't affect the band who'll stay rooted at the scene of earlier triumphs. Ian Hunter's line from "All the Way from Memphis" never more prevalent "You gotta stay young man, you can never grow old."
Life doesn't work that way however, as much as some would prefer, in particular around music. Influences and attitudes change, not only with advancing years, also with circumstances. Fights at Sheffield taxi ranks and nights spent goading the police tend not to feature with the advent of fame and fortune, which isn't a criticism, just a fact of life.
The Arctic Monkeys have shown a gradual movement towards a more mature sound , even within second album "Favourite Worst Nightmare" more so, previous outing "Humbug" causing consternation within certain circles, which "Suck It and See" won't alleviate. Again, we find Alex Turner, Jamie Cook, Matt Helders and Nick O'Malley in more reflective mood, producing an introspective, restrained album, still highlighting Turner's lyrical dexterity and humour, incorporating typically British themes "You're rarer than a can of dandelion and burdock" from the title track.
Turner's position as one of his generations best word smiths is retained, more evidently the music has become less......urgent, not as immediate, requiring additional attention. Apart from the heavier, upbeat moments, "Don't Sit Down Cos I've Moved Your Chair" "Brick By Brick" and "Library Pictures" the tracks on "Suck It and See" require consideration and patience, don a pair of headphones, all becomes much clearer. Fantastic guitar work becomes apparent, ( Josh Homme's stimulus obvious in a number of areas) intricate, thoughtful bass lines and Helders incredible drumming, utilising trademark off kilter rhythms, holding everything together perfectly. Furthermore, Turner's vocal continues to develop, richer, more controlled tones resonate throughout.
"Suck it and See".........exactly what's required........ just for a touch longer than originally expected.
http://soundcloud.com/dominorecordco/sets/arctic-monkeys-suck-it-and-see/
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