Arctic Monkeys are possibly the most iconic band circulating the internet at the moment – we mean, at least they are for us. They’ve been a band for 20 years, and they only seem to be getting more and more popular by the day. The band harnesses over 40M monthly listeners on Spotify, but we can’t help but remember they’re just a band from Sheffield, England. With over seven albums, it can be quite overwhelming to find the perfect song for your playlist. So, here at The Honey POP, we’re making your life easier. Here is a song on each Arctic Monkeys album that any one of your playlists might need.
‘Red Light Indicates Doors Are Secured’ – Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not (2006)
Opening with a funky bassline and a slick guitar riff, Alex Turner’s vocals are in their most pure state. Their first-ever studio album and his signature tone is untouched. The lyrics are poetic in true AM fashion, and the beat picks up in the chorus. The intensity grows before branching off into a guitar solo that has us scrunching our faces up in delight.
Perfect for throwback playlists or your brooding playlist.
‘Do Me A Favour’ – Favourite Worst Nightmare (2007)
A cult classic, but for good reason. The bass guitar absolutely thrives throughout the entirety of the song, with the slow but upbeat guitar picks and the intense drums hitting in our chests. The melody of the chorus is spot on, hitting the place between sad and emotional. And as the song fades during the post-chorus, and Turner’s vocals are isolated with the occasional guitar notes, it picks up again – a fake-out for an intense drop afterward.
And right as we think it won’t happen, Arctic Monkeys greets us with their thrashing guitars, the same thriving bass, and the drums ramping up to their full potential. The melody and intensity is the perfect example of melancholy. We stop what we’re doing every single time this part of the song plays.
Perfect for your playlists designed to make you cry when you feel like you can’t.
‘Pretty Visitors’ – Humbug (2009)
The electronics at the beginning of ‘Pretty Visitors’ lure you into a false sense of security before the real song crashes and bangs over your head. The strong guitar riffs, Turner’s fast-paced singing, and the drums are absolutely glorious. The drumming in this song is truly what takes centerstage – the intensity and the speed at which Matt Helders drums is truly mesmerizing. The cheeky lyrics are also a bonus. The bridge, with the half-time breakdown, and the slow pace of the guitars create an amazing melody to bang your head to.
An excellent addition to any angsty, intense, over-the-top playlists.
‘The Hellcat Spangled Shalalala’ – Suck It And See (2011)
Arctic Monkeys do what they do best on this song: strong bass that drives the song, Turner’s sultry voice coasting gently over the top, and reverbed guitars that create a beautiful melody in the background. The melody is lighter than the previous songs we’ve mentioned before. The chorus has well-placed harmonies, allowing the focus to be on the instruments. The bridge comes together beautifully, an empowered chorus follows, and the song cuts.
Perfect for your upbeat, vibing playlists.
‘Knee Socks’ – AM (2013)
As much as it pains us not to mention ‘R U Mine?’ and ‘Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High?,’ there are so many songs on AM that deserve recognition. ‘Knee Socks’ is absolutely one of them. The bass-driven songs that Arctic Monkeys are known for have been refined. The guitars are no longer reverbed, and the bass thumps in your chest. Turner’s silk vocals coast throughout the verse, allowing a relaxed atmosphere with a slightly upbeat tempo.
Perfect for those playlists where you’re feeling yourself, or are just in the mood for an upbeat vibe.
‘Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino’ – Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino (2018)
This song is one of the best representations of a band evolving over time. ‘Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino’ carries Arctic Monkeys’ signature strong bass with them and guitar picking scattered throughout the song. The lyrics follow a narrative, rather than being a narration of Turner’s own experiences. The melody is funky, but the song itself has a slow tempo. The song incorporates synth echoes perfectly after the first chorus.
There’s something so eclectic about this song, but it still works magnificently for any chill-out playlist.
‘Sculptures of Anything Goes’ – The Car (2022)
And we couldn’t write this article without mentioning this masterpiece. ‘Sculptures of Anything Goes’ takes the idea of a band’s evolution and blows completely past it. The only tell-tale that this is an Arctic Monkeys’ song is the fact that Alex Turner’s vocals glide throughout the song. Sure, the tone is dark, similar to other AM songs, but not quite to this extent. Think of the Stranger Things’ intro and then try and mold it with Arctic Monkeys slowed down – the song you think of won’t be too far off from this. It’s sultry and slow, but somewhat unsettling and cryptic. The music video is just as cryptic. But, we won’t spoil it for you, have a watch below. 😉
Did we miss your favorite song? Or did you find a new one from this playlist? Let us know by commenting below or tweeting us @TheHoneyPop. And for more new music recommendations, have a look here.
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