Arctic Monkeys fifth album comes as the pinnacle of a meteoric rise that has seen them become superstars beyond just their crazed fan base in England. Arctic Monkeys have enjoyed massive success in the U.K. and subsequently the U.S., and have become known as one of the best live bands out there.

AM’s release September 10th in the U.S. marks both a continuation in the classic British rock sound that the band has come to be known for as well as a much more laid back feel. The funk grooves abound throughout the entire album, with the fuzzed out guitar riffs conjuring an image of the band jamming in the dark night. Gone are the days of Arctic Monkeys’ intense jams like their #1 hit “I Bet You Look Good On the Dancefloor”, to be replaced by mellow jams such as “One For the Road.”

Alex Turner’s impressive vocals settle down to a dark croon over many a girl throughout the album. The guitar echoes and haunts as much as Turner’s lyrics. I am a particular fan of the songs “Arabella”, “Fireside”, and “Do I Wanna Know”. “Fireside” has an interesting beat that takes a slightly faster tempo than the rest of the album. “Arabella” is more of the classic rock sound but lets Turner’s vocals shine. “Do I Wanna Know” is a haunting song whose lyrics and guitar riff will linger in your mind for a while.

AM is simply another impressive display of rock infused with groove by the band who catapulted it back to the forefront again.