As darkness descended on the Rumsey Playfield in Central Park, New York got a taste of Britain's most talked-about band. Led by frontman Alex Turner, the Arctic Monkeys began playing an electrifying 90-minute set to the delight of the at-capacity crowd of 5,000 concertgoers this past September 5. Performing a set featuring a balance of songs from their two critically acclaimed albums, the band was remarkably tight. The sound was powerful. The energy was electrifying.
Accompanied by flashing lights and mist, the scene felt almost magical. The Monkeys opened furiously with the hits "Brianstorm" and "Dancing Shoes." The band's energy was infectious. The crowd cannot help but be swept into dancing and singing. Even Turner seemed surprised by the reaction, responding after each song with a gleeful "You're all delightful, cheers!" But this reception should come as no surprise to these Sheffield, England natives. After all, they're quickly becoming one of the world's most popular bands.
The Arctic Monkeys are a long way from attaining the popularity of past UK giants, like the Beatles or the Rolling Stones. Yet, there are some distinct and noteworthy similarities. Like the Beatles with Please Please Me, the Monkeys took the world by storm with their debut album Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not. Even in the age of Internet downloads, the album has sold more than two million copies worldwide. Their lyrics often discern social struggles and working conditions in England - their way of tackling issues was no doubt influenced by that other great London band, The Clash. As word spread, fans flocked to shows. Popularity quickly turned into frenzy - dare I say, mania? Media outlets deemed their debut album one of the greatest in recent music history, and the band the true successors of the Beatles.
Turner, who is both the band's frontman and lead guitarist, received his first guitar as a Christmas present at the age of 15. He taught himself how to play and eventually formed the band with Jaime Cook soon afterwards.
2008 Woodie Awards
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