Review by Dan:

Sheffield quartet Arctic Monkeys’ much anticipated debut combines indie pop/rock with a smattering of punk/ska hooks and a tinge of aggression, but there’s more to them than the rugged, carefree Yorkshiremen exterior they portray. Sheffield quartet The Monkeys’ song titles are chatty, and their lyrics consider everyday events that, irrespective of age, race or religion, most people can relate to a real life experience of their own. From the astute (“When The Sun Goes Down”) to the lustful (“Still Take You Home”) to the loutish behaviour described in “Riot Van”, to the downright whimsical (dismissing the families of historical lovers Romeo & Juliet in favour of ‘banging tunes and DJ sets’ in “I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor”). It may have been a little over-hyped by the press, but The Monkeys have the ability to make you want to swagger, to sing, to reminisce, and I really enjoyed doing all 3 of these activities whilst listening.