Well, well, well, Turner and his boys have done it again. Another cracking album. This time around they worked with James Ford, as with Humbug and Favourite Worst Nightmare. The whole thing though this time is more 'vintage' and deffiantly more 'pop'. Full of random yet wonderful lyrics, memorable guitar riffs and strong basslines this album still has that Monekys sound to it.

Starting with the lyrics, Alex has yet again done a great job on this album. I once read somewhere 'It's easier to understand inception on acid than alot of alex's lyrics', which is true, but there is still something great about them that let's just about anyone relate to them. There are a few exceptions though, and one real stinker in particular on this album, 'brick by brick'. The song's lyrics mainly consist of the title being shouted over a distorted guitar riff and loud drums. Im not sure where the inspiration came from for that, but i'll let it slip.

Now is it the same as there previous album's? Definatly not, would you buy it if it was? This album is as iv'e mentioned is more 'pop' oriented in most songs, a few however, such as Libary Pictures are deffinalty rock songs. Overall though it's not as dark as humbug, and not as rushed and upbeat as their first two albums. It's almost in between.

The songwriting and musicianship has definatly improved as the band has gone on, the guitar's are alot more melodic and well structured, although this was happening in humbug aswell. One thing i like back on this album is Helders strong drumming which i didn't feel was shown too well on humbug as he is actually probably the best drummer of his generation. All nick's bass is strong throughout and actually often features as the main riff in most songs.

Favourites?
Hmm, i would have to say 'Libary Pictures' for it's big rock feel and loud guitars. The lyrics are also very cleverly written and overall get's you banging your head when it kicks in. Another favourite is 'Love Is A Lazorquest' which features Turners songwriting at it's best, a real heartfelt song with beautiful melodies. I can really feel the emotion in this one.

The album cover, ironicly is one of the best in my record collection in my opinion, despite the plain pale coloured background with simple text. I think it's genius.

So to finish, would i recommend this for any Arctic Monekys fan? Yes deffinatly, sure it's differant and give it a few tries before you decide as it deffinaty grows on you. Overall another a great album from the boys, and hopefully more to come.

*This review is also on my ciao, under the username TheMorningRain.