Humbug Review

Released: August 19, 2009
Genre: Indie Rock
Label: Domino Records/Warner Bros
Number Of Tracks: 10
With Josh Homme in the producer’s chair for the Arctic Monkeys’ Humbug CD, the indie rock band takes on a sleek new sound.

Sound:	8.3
Lyrics:	7.5
Impression:	8
Overall rating:	7.9
Users rating:	8.8
Comments:	36

overall: 9.3

Featured review by: UG Team, on september 04, 2009

Sound: With plenty of debate to go around, the Arctic Monkeys have been critical darlings since delivering 2006’s Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not. It seemed like the British indie rock group could do no wrong, particularly in the eyes and ears of the NME publication and a feast of award shows – and many would say that attention is deserved. Through it all, there was always somewhat of a happy-go-lucky, garage rock vibe that popped up in the Arctic Monkeys’ music. Things have changed – and in a rather good way. With their latest release Humbug, the band has opted for a sleeker, mellower, and moodier album. The quartet might claim that producer Josh Homme (Queens of the Stone Age) didn’t have a massive influence on their sound, but Humbug indicates otherwise. And again, regardless of what the setup was in the studio or who pulled the strings, it still worked out beautifully.

From the opening track “My Propeller,” the tone is a mellow, cool one. While the Arctic Monkeys’ past two records had at least a handful of upbeat, danceable tracks, Humbug is all about creating an ambient mood. “My Propeller” is the perfect way to initiate that approach with its deep bass and guitar lines, not to mention the smooth vocal delivery of Alex Turner. Don’t let the fact that everything is taken down a notch scare you. There is some gorgeous instrumentation, with quirky guitar lines added underneath vocal sections and interesting percussion timing included to the mix.

Homme does offer his guitar/vocal skills to some of Humbug, with the tracks “Dance Little Liar” and “Fire and the Thud” sounding extremely like a product of Queens of the Stone Age. There’s a slide/lap steel used on “Fire and the Thud” that is undeniably Homme, and even the vocals on “Dance Little Liar” feel influenced by the frontman. Those two songs are not necessarily carbon copies of QOTSA, however, and the addition of backing vocals from Dead Weather’s Alison Mosshart certainly adds another texture to “Fire and the Thud.” // 9

Lyrics and Singing: When you combine the vocal phrasing style with the actual lyrical content on Humbug, you have a winner through and through. This is not a case of regurgitated lyrics, and you’ll hear something novel in every track. Highlights on the record are “My Propeller” (“It is a necessary, evil; No cause for emergency; Borrow the beak of a bald eagle; Oh, momentary synergy”) and “Crying Lightning” (“Said your mistaken if you’re thinking that I haven't been caught cold before; As you bit into your strawberry lace; And then a flip in your attention in the form of a gobstopper”). // 10

Impression: The Arctic Monkeys can’t be accused of following the same formula to stay in the graces of both critics and fans. Humbug is an album pretty much devoid of upbeat numbers (with the exception of a song like “Pretty Visitors”), but the band is still able to impress with creative minimalism. Whether guitarist Jamie Cook selects a dreamy effect to be placed only on certain lines underneath the verse or Alex Turner delivers a lyric in a completely unexpected manner, this is a forward-thinking offering. Yes, you can make several comparisons to Queens of the Stone Age throughout, but honestly it’s unexpected for the Arctic Monkeys to even attempt that type of style. It’s an effective direction for the band that continues to surprise. // 9

overall: 9

Reviewed by: israels_son, on september 04, 2009

Sound: The Arctic Monkeys new record will divide fans. Some will renounce it from it's near total departure of their once light and boppy sound. Others will applaud their daring adventure into dark and haunting new areas.

I agree with the later. Frontman and lead songwriter Alex Turner's stint with his side project "The Last Shadow Puppets" has changed his songwriting, giving him the confidence to branch out both lyricly and and musicly.

The album sounds like an extension to If You Were There Beware, loud and aggressive but winding and spooky. Fans of Queens of the Stone Ages later albums will hear Josh Hommes touch all over the cd, with an almost identical drum mix to Era Vulgaris and Josh even provides guitar to some tracks. Some of the tracks sound as iff they are coming from the same sonisphere as the second half of Lullabyes to Paralyse.

The band sound dirty and rawer than they eve have, guitars fuzz all over the shop as the rythym section keeps moving jaggedly across the album. This bigger and wilder sound could be attributed to the Monkeys trek to Joshua Tree, CA to record this album with Josh Homme.

The sound is what grabbed me most about this record. It sounds like The Dead Weather's debute album and a Bond theme making babies. it grooves so smoothly but you can hear the evil gritty undertones. // 10

Lyrics and Singing: Alex Turner's prowess as a wordsmith is nothing new, but as like every other asset of the record they have evolved. Gone are the narratives of getting kicked out of nightclubs and stories of hookers. Humbug is all about atmosphere.

Turner turns phrases on their heads and inserts vulgarity to break up the smooth delivery of his lines "What came first, the chicken or the dickhead". Alex defended his journey and into the land of metaphor on this record in an interview on BBC television. "The lyrics are actually more personel, I felt becasue they were broader I could hide more of my feelings in there".

Sometmes you will feel like you are trying to translate a foreign language, which will put off the casual fan, but, it is something that die hard Monkey fans will relish.

Alex's singing is undeniably better than ever. He still keeps a fairly limited range but his melodic elocution of each syllable that drips out of his mouth is completly engaging and when he sings the chorus of Crying Lightning it sticks to your brain like peanut butter. // 8

Impression: I consider myself a particularly hard critic. Those who hated this CD will surely disagree with me. I recieved this CD early to be reviewed for a magazine I work for. As soon as I listened to it once through I was genuinely hooked. I am going to buy the official copy when it is released, despite having a free copy already.

The Fire and the Thud, the albums centerpiece whicj features guest vocals from Alison Mosshart (The Kills, The Dead Weather) and Josh Homme (QOTSA, TCV) has to be my favourite track. It grooves like lounge music on acid.

However it is not perfect. The album is only 10 tracks long, not including special bonus tracks. It finishes leaving you wanting more and as the songs are quite short (only two songs breach the four minuet mark) wich leaves me questioning how long the album will hold my attention after a while. But still, I have hope that the layering of sonic landscapes and cryptic lyrics should keep me entranced for a good deal of time.

This is so far my favourite album of the year and certainly the best British rock CD this year. An instant classic. It's dirty, it's different, it's dark, scary and stimulating. A pleasent suprise for someone who took a long time to warm to the Arctic Monkeys first two records. // 9

overall: 9.3

Reviewed by: Kebabmashine, on september 04, 2009

Sound: When I first heard the single Crying Lightning I was totally surprised by their new sound, but after the first listen I really got into it and looked forward to the album.

And yes, I think they really changed their sound, there is only one track that could be considered as an typical Arctic Monkeys song (Pretty Visitors). They got a lot more dark and I think the fact that Josh Homme produced most of the tracks can cleary be heard. The guitar solo in Crying Lightning is a quite good example for that. Also Jamie (Cook, guitarist) stated that the time they made the album they mostly were listening to Black Sabbath and Cream, and you can hear that too, which in my opinion is quite a good thing. The sudden change into the slower part of "Potion Approaching" for example really shows me that they moved forward.

What I didn't was expecting were the tracks that have kind of a Country/Folk feel to them, like Secret Door or Cornerstone. I wasn't keen on them first but like it was with YFWM you just need to listen the tracks a few times before you really can enjoy them. // 9

Lyrics and Singing: The lyrics are very different from the other albums. First they deal with other subjects. There are no more lyrics about night outs and party and stuff. I think Alex's lyrics from the past were kind of a trademark for the Arctic Monkeys and that he apparently doesn't write such lyrics anymore can seem bad to some people but to me (I always enjoyed his older lyrics) it shows quite good that he grew up.

Also, he's changed his writing style. It isn't always clear about he is singing and I think the fact that he got more 'poetic' is also a sign for his maturity. Also I think his singing evolved and I think the work as 'Last shadow puppets' really helped him to improve his singing skills. // 9

Impression: To some it may seem bad that they aren't the "upbeat-and-fast-time-signatures-Arctic Monkeys" and I don't think that this album will catch up with the chart positions of the previous albums but I think I wouldn't be very happy if they would've made another album like that. I mean, I really loved WPSIATWIN and YFWN but I think it is a very good thing that they changed. Because I think someday they would've just been one of those "always-sound-the-same-bands" of which I think there are so many out there.

I think making the 3rd album after 2 really good albums is even harder than making a 2nd after an successful debut. But I think they really got mature(I think i said that enough) and I'm really happy with that.

After the big hype about their debut and after everything with this 'famous-through-the-internet'-thing they finally have become a 'normal' Indie-Rock band from England. I'm really looking forward what their future albums will sound like. // 10

overall: 4

Reviewed by: MisterMarston, on september 07, 2009

Sound: A definate change is present here in the Monkeys' third outing 'Humbug'. However is this change good, or bad?

In all my genuine fan honesty, it is a big dissapointment. Whilst it is a 'maturing' in some people's eyes, I personally beg to differ and say it is a lesson in tough love for Alex Turner as he is slowly losing his tight ability to write mature and entertaining songs. Just because the lyrics revolved around running away from coppers, or being caught drug-smuggling doesn't mean they weren't 'mature songs'.

Here's a question i ask. For anyone out there who writes songs that they're proud of, think about the one's you AREN'T proud of. The one's that had nonsensical lyrics just put in beacuse they fitted your melody perfectly. The one's that were pointlessly depressive, and attempted to create a meaning but failed miserably. For me, that sums up this album. Whilst musically it is haunting, whistly, buzzing, vibrant, almost earthquake-like on the speakers, the actual songs fall short of impressing.

Some melodies I can admit are catchy, classic Monkeys, however they're over run with this feeling of pointless dread and atmosphere that doesn't suit the album - as unlike a Pink Floyd album or Bowie album, this albums song have no variety or soul point.

For fans of the classic monkeys, it's a step backwards then another step left towards Alex's side project 'The Last Shadow Puppets'. It's evident he's struggled as a songwriter to seperate the two band's and their fanbases, and has got caught up in the Shadow Puppets edgy sound.

For fans of dark, ominous music - i give you the 5. Songs are overall fine, but there's certainly better sounding albums out there of this genre. Think of it like a 'Rock' band like Greenday, trying to reach further into the genre and try and make an album like 'Iron Maiden'. They'll never be as good, so just stick to Maiden. Thats what I feel here. I'd rather listen to 'Divison Bell' by Pink Floyd than this attempt by the Monkeys.

Songs to look out for:
'Secret Door'
'Cornerstone'
'Crying Lightning' // 5

Lyrics and Singing: As I've touched on previously - absolute tosh. Such a dissapointment that Alex could not differenciate what the Monkeys achieved musically as a band, and what the Shadow Puppets achieved.

There's no doubt people will praise these lyrics and say, 'intellegent - like LOL IN THE SONG CRYING LIGHTNING HE KEEPS MENTIONING NAMES OF SWEETS!' but there is no point! There's no point in referencing strawberry laces and pick n' mixes in Crying lightning! There's no point in asking us to spin Alex's 'Propeller'!

NONE OF IT MAKES SENSE. I can assure you. You can sit and read the lyrics as I've done, trying to follow the album - but you'll get nowhere. The inspirational, story-like, witty and catchy lyrics of the previous two albums have now been replaced by unnescacerry longer words. Just because you have a good vocabulary Alex doesn't mean you have to flash it off.

Alex is still a great singer however, can't knock that. However the darker, rockier songs on this album don't match up to the more melodic and (very rare) fun songs, as that's what he's best at doing. // 3

Impression: Overall the Monkeys third outing is a brave and audacious attempt into broadening their musical talent, that falls short on so many levels. I'm not ripping into the band for changing their style, I'm ripping into them for changing it and failing to create good music as a result. The Killers 'Day & Age', for any fan will know, is a completely different album to their prior two. For one thing, the songs are almost techno-like with an absence of guitar and a replacement of synths. However the album was fantastic and catchy and definately one of the best. Not the case here, sadly.

Most impressive songs have to be 'Secret Door', 'Cornerstone' and their first released single from this album 'Crying Lightning' - definately a grower.

What I love about it: Definately the band shows competence in not being content with creating repetetive music. Different sound from the 'Whatever People say I Am, that's What I'm Not' and 'Favourite Worst Nightmire' Yorkshire boys.

What I hate about it: Just not a good album. Hands have to be held up now, it's different - but it's just a lot of nonsensical, relatively un-catchy and un-melodic grunge.

Definately would not reccomend any readers' buying, especially for classic Monkeys fans. Get the Last Shadow Puppets album, it's virtually the same music - and is far better. Thank you. // 4

Comments

[Ironpriest]

Fantastic album. takes heaps of listens, but when it clicks, it clicks good!

[GnikNus]

So great, i've always liked them but didn't ever expect anything this good

[benUK247]

LOVE this album! Clicked straight away. I must admit, i still prefer their older stuff though..

[Arktischer Affe]

"Whatever People say I am, Thats what i'm not" was good, "Favourite Worst Nightmare" was great...but "Humbug" is killing them all....fantastic album

[FakeTalesOfSan]

I've always been a huge fan of them, favorite album being WPSIATWIN, and Humbug is no let down. Wonderful album in so many ways, although it may take a few listens for people to love it.

[brantley23]

its a good progression and i love the album, but nothing tops the old songs obviously. Cornerstone is such a well written song. Oh and that first review, talks WAY to much about Josh Homme and QOTSA, need to stick the the Monkeys and the album!

[GezzyDiversion]

im going to buy it

[joker_thief]

matt helders has stated in several recent interviews that the sound of the album was influenced by josh homme but they wrote all the songs before the entered the studio. turner's lyrics are as good as ever. brilliant album from one of the best bands around.

[barden1069]

Probably the best $10 I've spent all summer.

[flambe chicken]

Top quality album, and I think the QOTSA-influence in the musical direction is less down to Josh Homme producing and providing backing vocals, and more down to the fact that the guys have stated that they are massive Queens fans. Would recommend this to anyone.

[SumFX]

Awesome album, i like the fact that Josh Homme produced some of this. It is definatly more "grown up". Pretty Visitors is probably one of the best songs on here.

[Shabalaba]

I could imagine it would grow on me but it isn't what I wasn't expecting. The have lost the British sound they had and it has been replaced with a more American sound.

[ChordMonger]

they got boring. this album starts nowhere and goes nowhere. C-

[Solo Wing]

I don't understand how people can say they got boring- Is tempo the only thing some of you people require?

Great album from the Monkeys, they've really developed and progressed magnificently.

[Ironpriest]

ChordMonger :
they got boring. this album starts nowhere and goes nowhere.

Give it about 6 listens, Everyone thought this the first time.

[foofighter1337]

I'm a huge Arctic Monkeys nut (I even went so far as to buy their first, very rare EP) and thus far I can't say I'm a fan of their new album. But everyone says to give it some more listens, so we will see...

[keithmoon15]

great album, i bought it (with money, unlike half of the world which illegally downloaded it) and i love it. i liked their older stuff a bit, but i knew they had a lot of potential and i love josh homme, so i figured i would give it a shot. LOVE IT

[Pizkacha]

So far I've only heard Crying Lightning, and I'm hearing some strong remnants of The Last Shadow Puppets, which is really good, the band now sounds more melancholic. I'm gonna buy the album soon, but so far...I like that they've matured!

[idasfa38]

i've loved arctic monkeys for ages but this album is a bit of a let down. their older stuff was better. humbug is still good though

[hendrix n page]

From what i've heard this album sounds a bit depressing. even the arctic monkeys are turning dark

[Maggot4Life22]

At first, it seemed liked a very depressing, boring album. After listening to it 4 times, I think it is defiantly the best album by the monkeys. Best songs are Pretty Visitors, Crying Lightening, And Sketchhead.

[Fozza2008]

Was lucky enough to get hands on a promo version.
This whole album is in my top 25 most played playlist!!
I LOVE IT!!!!!
Keep up the awesome work

[flighty]

[the_hoodster]

I don't like Arctic Monkeys but I thought I would give this a listen and I liked it straight away!

[whysky]

i think it's funny to see how each album got it's own influences. i mean the first was like Sex Pistols, The Libertines, maybe The Police and shit like that. in the second i noticed like more Oasis, The Stone Roses... but this one it's pure Black Sabbath, Cream, Queens Of The Stone Age and tons of 60's art rock.
Great band i think it's like a mix of the greatest british bands

[padresfan92]

Arktischer Affe wrote:

"Whatever People say I am, Thats what i'm not" was good, "Favourite Worst Nightmare" was great...but "Humbug" is killing them all....fantastic album

I totally agree, they just keep getting better and better, not to mention all their eps and singles that are fantastic as well. keep it coming. Stoked to see em on the 14

[joshw17]

Some people seemed to be shocked at the direction being taken with this album, but it would seem different if you compared it with their first. If you hold it next to Favourite Worst Nightmare, the transition seems far more natural.

I'm also pleased with Alex Turner's evolution as a lyricist. The best part of this record is that each one of these tracks has so much personality... it creates a real diversity between the songs.

[XxStrifeXx]

+ 1 to josh. Great album, awesome progression over 3 albums. Sit by yourself with some quality herb or a drink, and see where it takes you.

A-

[NickDillon]

Arctic Monkeys played perhaps the worst set ive seen on stage at leeds festival this year
almost all their songs were new songs, so no one recognised (or liked) them, and the singer was completely stoned anyway!

their albums have got progressively worse if you ask me; their first album was good, second album was mediocre, then we have this...

[Pukka-VCU]

You people are stone crazy if you're not liking this album. I was a casual fan at most till this. I am loving this. Wicked spin on all the listed influences and more.

[jakejemas]

I am a huge Arctic Monkeys fan and this album failed to please on any of the many factors that attracted me to them in the first place, the lyrics are meaningless the voices are dark and all the zeal thy used to have. all in all i give tha album a 6

[Ironpriest]

and the singer was completely stoned anyway!

Alex is a stoner?

[BobChicken]

fantastic album, great band. hte only one of the current 'indie' bands who are actually interesting

[marcelaguiar]

SPin Magazine said this CD failed...

I dont know, havent listened to it...

[NickDillon]

Ironpriest wrote:

and the singer was completely stoned anyway!

Alex is a stoner?

seems that way, everyone was saying he was
slurring his speech, eyes drooped most of the time
lol strange how the prodigy supported them, shouldve been the other way around

[Perpetual Burn]

I loved it...I think its their 2nd best album so far.