Arctic Monkeys, the band that rose from Sheffield pubs to global stardom, have crafted a remarkable discography. Their journey from kitchen-sink realism to stadium-filling anthems is perfectly encapsulated in their diverse songbook. While they may have traded everyday observations for a more expansive sound, their early charm and lyrical wit remain cornerstones of their appeal. Here’s a countdown of 20 essential Arctic Monkeys tracks that showcase their evolution and enduring impact.
20. Bigger Boys and Stolen Sweethearts (2005)
This B-side gem from their early days reveals the Arctic Monkeys’ knack for storytelling. “Bigger Boys and Stolen Sweethearts” is a humorous and sharply observed tale of teenage romance and rivalry in secondary school. It’s a nostalgic snapshot of youthful angst and the bittersweet pangs of first love, delivered with Alex Turner’s signature witty lyricism.
19. Pretty Visitors (2009)
While Alex Turner’s lyrics often take center stage, Matt Helders’ drumming is the engine room of Arctic Monkeys’ sound. “Pretty Visitors” from Humbug is a prime example. Helders’ explosive and precise drumming propels the song through rhythmic shifts and turns, creating a frenetic energy. The drum rolls at the 30-second mark are a testament to his technical brilliance and power.
18. One Point Perspective (2018)
Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino marked a sonic shift for Arctic Monkeys, dividing some fans with its foggy, lounge-inspired sound. However, “One Point Perspective” offers moments of accessible brilliance within the album’s opacity. Turner’s satirical lyrics dissect the persona of a world-weary rock star, delivering lines like, “I’m gonna run for government / I’m gonna form a covers band an’ all,” with sardonic flair.
17. Arabella (2013)
By the late 2000s, Alex Turner’s songwriting embraced themes of infatuation and desire. “Arabella,” from AM, is a dazzling example of this. Turner’s lyrics are overtly lustful, yet delivered with a captivating charm. The song features powerful, Black Sabbath-esque guitar riffs in the chorus, specifically reminiscent of “War Pigs,” adding a hard rock edge to their sound.
16. Riot Van (2006)
“Riot Van” from Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not brilliantly captures adolescent boredom and frustration. The song narrates a story of a rebellious teenager’s encounter with the police, set against music that evokes a sense of resignation or indifference. The raw, lyrically direct version from their early demo collection, Beneath the Boardwalk, is particularly compelling for its unfiltered energy.
15. Only Ones Who Know (2007)
Favourite Worst Nightmare, while commercially successful, is arguably Arctic Monkeys’ most inconsistent album. However, amidst the experimentation, “Only Ones Who Know” stands out. This gentle and tender song portrays a couple deeply in love, showcasing a softer side to the band and a beautiful, understated melody.
14. She Looks Like Fun (2018)
Social media fatigue is a prevalent theme in modern music, but Arctic Monkeys tackle it with originality in “She Looks Like Fun” from Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino. Backed by a sound that hints at the deconstructed energy of AM-era Arctic Monkeys, Turner delivers witty observations on Instagram culture, punctuated by the memorable aphorism: “Dance as if somebody’s watching, ’cause they are”.
13. Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High? (2013)
AM marked Arctic Monkeys’ most cohesive and impactful album since their debut. While its heavy guitar sound drew attention, “Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High?” reveals a surprising R&B influence. The song’s staccato riff and rhythmic structure subtly nod to early 2000s Destiny’s Child, a testament to their eclectic musical palette and ability to blend genres.
12. Suck It and See (2011)
The title track from Suck It and See showcases Turner’s lyrical playfulness and melodic inventiveness. “You’re rarer than a can of dandelion and burdock / And those other girls are just post-mix lemonade,” he sings with charming British specificity. The song marries a classic late-60s pop melody with a wall of trebly, echoing guitars, creating a unique sonic texture.
11. I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor (2006)
“I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor,” their breakthrough single from Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not, is a masterclass in contrast. The lyrics are wry and detached, observing the scene at an indie club with a critical eye, while the music explodes with the frenetic energy of that very club night at its peak. This juxtaposition is key to the song’s enduring appeal as an indie anthem.
10. Star Treatment (2018)
“Star Treatment,” the opening track of Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino, boasts one of the album’s most memorable lines: “I just wanted to be one of the Strokes,” Turner sings, seemingly autobiographically, “now look at the mess you made me make.” Musically and arrangement-wise, the song pays homage to the Beach Boys’ Pet Sounds, demonstrating Arctic Monkeys’ ambition and successful foray into more experimental sonic territories.
9. Mardy Bum (2006)
Alex Turner’s early vocal style was initially influenced by Julian Casablancas of The Strokes. However, he soon realized the power and originality of singing in his natural Yorkshire accent. “Mardy Bum,” from Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not, exemplifies this. Its slang-rich and charming narrative of relationship squabbles wouldn’t resonate as deeply without Turner’s authentic delivery.
8. That’s Where You’re Wrong (2011)
Arctic Monkeys consistently deliver strong album closers, and “That’s Where You’re Wrong” from Suck It and See is no exception. The guitars oscillate between shimmering and clangorous, the bass provides a powerful foundation, and the lyrics ambiguously explore the themes of new romance and lost love, creating a captivating and complex finale.
7. Cornerstone (2009)
“Cornerstone” from Humbug is a contender for Arctic Monkeys’ most purely beautiful song. Its greatness lies in the simplicity of its melody and guitar solo, rather than solely in Turner’s lyrics. However, the lyrics are still brilliant, featuring standout lines like, “I smelt your scent on the seatbelt,” showcasing Turner’s knack for poignant and relatable details.
6. Fluorescent Adolescent (2007)
Turner has cited John Cooper Clarke and Jake Thackray as lyrical influences. “Fluorescent Adolescent,” from Favourite Worst Nightmare, suggests another, perhaps unexpected, influence: Victoria Wood. The song’s empathetic and keenly observed portrayal of a former party girl grappling with aging echoes Wood’s songwriting style, making it a relatable and poignant track.
5. R U Mine? (2012)
“R U Mine?” served as the first taste of AM, signaling a new, heavier direction for the band. It encapsulates the album’s essence in microcosm: massive, distorted riffs, thunderous drumming, and lyrics that are a vibrant collage of pop culture references, from Sandie Shaw to Thunderbirds. This track is a powerful statement of intent and a fan favorite.
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4. The View from the Afternoon (2006)
“Anticipation has a habit to set you up for disappointment,” is a bold opening line for a highly anticipated debut album like Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not. “The View from the Afternoon” defies this expectation. With its jagged guitars, frantic drums, and vivid depiction of the hours leading up to a night out, it fulfills and surpasses the hype, solidifying their status as a band to watch.
3. 505 (2007)
The journey of “505” from an overlooked album track on Favourite Worst Nightmare to one of Arctic Monkeys’ most popular songs is remarkable. Its resurgence, particularly among younger listeners via platforms like TikTok, is a testament to its enduring quality. Built upon chords reminiscent of Ennio Morricone, “505” explores understated melancholy with a haunting beauty.
2. Do I Wanna Know? (2013)
“Do I Wanna Know?” from AM exudes the confidence of a band hitting a new creative peak a decade into their career. Live performances, like the Reading Festival footage of crowds singing along to both the lyrics and the iconic guitar riff, underscore the song’s immense power and anthemic quality. It’s a definitive Arctic Monkeys track that resonates across generations.
1. A Certain Romance (2006)
Alex Turner’s teenage authorship of “A Certain Romance,” the closer from Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not, is a testament to his exceptional lyrical talent. The song effectively critiques the early 2000s demonization of “chavs” with nuance and empathy. Its brilliant structure and emotional depth, particularly the 180-degree tonal shift in the final verse, make it a masterpiece. It’s a song that captures the perspective of youth with an authenticity that only a teenager could truly convey. The music builds powerfully to a roaring instrumental climax, solidifying its place as Arctic Monkeys’ finest moment.
