I completely agree with that. It really shows in the song structure, tempo, and melodies. It really changed their whole genre as others have pointed out.
He’s technically a better singer now than he was. He has better resonance and breath support. He’s a great singer. A very unique voice. I think their current music isn’t as exciting as it was in the past, though
@@kakuzugoated873 I highly doubt that their current slower music is because Alex needs the music to go slower because he can’t sing quickly. Singing slow songs isn’t easier than singing fast. Holding a slow note, and doing it well, is pretty difficult. He sounds good singing old uptempo stuff with his current better technique. He sounds, to me, like he has great control over his voice, fast or slow
@@stampede4107 NO, slower notes are always easier if they're of the same complexity. The reason some slow songs are hard is also cuz they're made much more complex. However his nee stuff is slower AND simpler. Pretty easy to tell
it's spot on, they just mistook falsetto with head voice range. falsetto is the "airy voice". it's very hard to identify and it's used to explore notes that we would be incapable of hitting naturally, as this technique allows you to sing the overtones of the desired note without the tonic. coincidently, the first example seems to be both head voice and falsetto, but the other ones are just head voice. my singing teacher didn't like the distinction between chest and head voice because we actually have a lot of "registers" that interlap between themselves. if you believe you have just two ways of singing, a strong "chest" voice and a thin "head" voice you'll probably end hurting yourself and singing like sh*t, like I did lol the correct way of singing is one of these two: 1. you either forget about the original record and sing the best your voice allows you to in that register (wich probably will sound different from the way the original singer does it), or 2. you transpose it into a region where you can replicate the original singer's style. this won't work if you don't have the same vocal range. also, you should explore different ways of singing the same notes, even more if you feel they hurt you or are difficult to sing. this way you can find the adequate technique for YOUR voice, as your voice is unique, and your technique should, consequently, be too. take inspiration from other singers, but NEVER try to replicate them. you can't sing like they do, just as they can't sing like you 😉
a voz dele mudou bastante nos últimos anos tlgd, nos últimos 2 discos dá pra perceber legal isso nele, ele parece ter mais confiança pra fazer outras técnicas vocais, enfim um dos meus cantores favoritos!!!
I mean, he was 19 when AM first headlined Glastonbury, he's in his thirties now. He's also been smoking during all that time, and the music that inspired their most recent ventures (Nick Cave, Leonard Cohen) isn't exactly known for loud frantic tenor singing, it makes sense that he's in a more baritone croon now.
I don't think the new albums are "bad", it's just that the music is so different from what AM used to bring, it appeals to a different audience. and that's why it's so polarising. it's still called "Arctic Monkeys", it's still the same band, but the music is almost a completely different genre. And the 2008 fans are still hungry for a new "Whatever people say" or "favourite worst nightmare". which makes them dislike "Hotel" or "the car"
Exactly. I miss the high gain fast guitars with basic riffs and yelling thick accent vocals that zoom around. Now we have the classic case of trying to sound American and it’s annoying because that’s not his natural voice but if I didn’t associate the new stuff with the old I would enjoy the new stuff better but I can’t separate the fact that I know he’s trying hard to sound American and it’s unsettling
@@LevWaxScreamshe’s lived outside of Sheffield for more than a decade of course his accent is gonna change. What a weird thing to say lol. Plus yeah obviously they’re gonna grow and develop as a band and people after nearly 20 years lmao.
@@LevWaxScreams I don't think he tries to sound american, most (british) people just lose their accent when singing. "It's partly that many of the distinctive characteristics of an accent aren't reproduced well when you sing. Vowel sounds get stretched, and the precise articulation of the consonants is lost. The result is a neutral baseline accent that sounds vaguely American." You can only hear his british accent when he is singing so fast it's more like rapping.
Alex Turner's voice was interesting, but now sounds like a generic lounge singer. Strangely, Morrisey's current vocal style is almost identical to Alex's current vocal style.
The Rolling Stones, Metallica, Guns N' Roses-growing older doesn't mean your musical style has to change. While your lyrics might evolve and your technique can improve, there's no rule saying that age should push you from rock to another genre.
They started very young and their sound was faster and punkish. As artists it only makes sense for them to evolve and not to use the same formula again and again. And I appreciate that Alex is singing now in this more melodic and sensual way, he has transformed many of their songs. It makes sense as he’s almost forty, not the teenager he was when they first started.
I get that he/they have evolved but it wouldn’t hurt him to still play the old songs the way he used to at concerts and play the newer, slower songs as he does (which are still good)
@@grantmitchell741 they do that on specific songs, it must be boring even for them to perform their songs in exactly the same way for so many years. 505 which is slowed down at their lives is a 16 year old song! I saw them live this summer and many of their old songs were still fast.
I remember an interview with Noel Gallagher when he said there is only so long you can sing about cigarettes and alcohol. Artists evolve just as we all get old so do they.
The old Artic Monkeys was really something else. Bombastic, youthful, creative, artful without seeming pretentious, with lyrics that were raw yet sophisticated. It was easily my favourite band of that era.
Being a teenager back when the first album dropped (I'm just a bit younger than them) is one of my most cherished memories ❤ you can tell it was made by teenagers. They've grown up, and it happens to all of us.
You description was perfect. It was easily the best band of that era too. I only really discovered them many years later (in their early days I was turned off by how much they looked like nerdy teenagers) and I remember thinking, "So these kids were still MINORS when they wrote this stuff?!" It's insane how much more refined and interesting both the music and the lyrics were compared to The Strokes, Libertines, Franz Ferdinand, The Hives or any other major garage/indie act of the time.
to be completely frank, alex and the arctic monkeys are one of my favourite bands for a reason. a lot of people will argue with me and say that they miss the garage sound that they had before or that his new era is bad, but thats because hes gotten older, and evolved with his music. i feel like it would be awkward to have a 37 year old man sing about teenage angst and picking up girls at clubs. i love all the tracks on the new albums, and on the old ones! arctic monkeys songs have always been able to make me feel such intense emotions, and they continue to do that. i think the songs on the car are criminally overlooked tbh.
@@mirelinkkI agree with you whatever that person is talking about proves that their concept of musical evolution is arse. And that they can’t spell the bands name right lol
The first album isn't _specifically that..._ "teenage angst and picking up girls at clubs", even though it may seem and sound that way. As someone who is from the same area as them, but a couple of years older, it's pretty much a snapshot time-capsule of the nightlife in that area. The person in the stories isn't the protagonist as much as the City is, know what I mean?
The incredible variety of music that Alex has made is what has made him my most listened to artist. I can’t get tired of him because he creates so many different vibes with his music, he has a song for every occasion and mood.
The lyric style has changed massively too. From colloquial, relatable and too the point, to introspective abstract metaphors that mean nothing to the average listener. And I think that’s got a lot to do with the fact that after the first few albums Alex Turner didn’t live life as a normal lad from Sheffield anymore so his lyrics aren’t written from that perspective, making them less relatable.
Really cool video. I've loved every Arctic Monkeys album for different reasons, and your analysis just articulated those reasons perfectly. Keep it up!
I am proud of Alex. He has been in the industry since his teens years and he can do whatever he wants, is his legacy. I think people hate on Alex so easily because he never answers, he is not on social media following what they say, and that's not okay. Arctic Monkeys are a great band and they just want to evolve and do what they really wish. I love all their works.
@@frankkkbard0n315 I'm proud of his achievements. He never wanted to be as big as he is right now and he did it. He has influenced a whole generation. Many young musicians nowdays want to be like him. The way he improved as a singer and artist is awesome. What do you don't understand? He is one of the best songwriters of this generation, he is an unproblematic musician and he stays relevant. That's great!!
‘he’s not on social media following what they say, and that’s not okay’ i’m a little confused on what you meant here. did you word it wrong or were you saying it sarcastically? he doesn’t let unhealthy outside influence of fans affect his music, and doesn’t care for his presence on social media platforms. i personally find this refreshing and an allusion to his authenticity
@@Jessica-qu1yo I highlighted the YOU part. Why are you proud of him? you can be proud of something you have done yourself , or maybe something your child has done. It just makes no sense feeling proud for him
@@karltannerfookinlegendofgi5243They meant it like, bullying someone because they can't see it isn't a good thing, like talking behind someone's back I guess.
I don't think any of us back in 2006, 2007 would have ever or could have ever imagined that Arctic Monkeys will progress like this and Alex's voice will come to what it is right now. Even though I am not a huge fan of their current style, I surely appreciate the maturity and the fact that they haven't stayed in one place for more than two records. And that's why they are my absolute favourite band.
@@denisuntoro It's about social media, the internet, technology, and our time around those concepts, as well as what it is like being Alex Turner (basically the nostalgic, introverted rockstar who doesn't like this particular era) in this context. It's also a love song, too, in many ways, just like the most of other TBHC tunes.
Alex Turner is an artist, through and through. I love that he is not afraid to experiment and change even if he gets hate because of it. Arctic Monkeys and TLSP are my perfect bands. I hope they can make multiple more albums, im sure true fans will love his/their work
I actually think they went from this group of kids that were just messing around in a garage to creating absolutely beautiful pieces of art. These new albums are definitely underappreciated but for me I think the last two albums were absolutely phenomenal and extremely creative. Wherever they go from here I am completely on board with them.
Tbh, I feel completely the opposite. I feel that they made truly a post-punk garage rock masterpiece with such creativity and nuances that made them brilliant. But after their debut, it seems clear to me that the band lost themselves. I could explain why but I dont wanna offend your tastes, if you like the news albums thats fine, I at least think that Tranquility Base is great
@@alex11v3dude, i see it in the exact same way. for me, their debut is their ultimate masterpiece no doubt. peak of art intensity that only youth can offer. unique and atemporal sound, which keeps, sadly, getting lost as time passes by. his immature and extremely creative singing in their debut was precisely what brought them so much appreciation for it.
I saw arctic monkeys in concert last night, and was super impressed by Alex’s live vocals. With some bands, I go into concerts half expecting the singer to not sound as good live- it happens, because singing live for two hours every night can be tough. But he totally nailed it and had great stage presence too.
As a fan of Alex and Arctic Monkeys since day one, their first two albums got me goosebumps with genius lyrics from alex and their catchy riffs. When Humbug's out, for a moment i was quite disappointed because their garage/punk sound were gone and i think this is not Arctic that i was like before. Until SIAS album i realized that Alex never gonna repeat same formulas for their songs twice. And continuing for AM, TBHC and The Car album, i can say that their musical experience has evolved and i can deal with that. And for sure, Alex is one of the greatest lyricist of this era.
Same here. The first two albums are my favorites cause is the first stuff that I've heard from them. But I understand people who probably met them on another phase to prefer the 'new' AM, they're not bad, is just another style
I remember being a young Australian journalist living in London when The Arctics did the first TV appearance for Dancefloor. It was completely shattering. I was buzzing all over. It was the moment anyone who had a clue just got on the phone to their label. These days, I enjoy the songwriting and his unique pretence. It's like he's living in a parallel bubble just outside of the truth. Which is, I guess, what successful artists do.
The evolution of the Monkeys as a whole definitely had some fans coming and going, the truth is that Alex and the whole group have matured in their sound and technicality. When you get so much experience on stage, on instrument and as a band, it’s unnatural to sound the same as you did in the beginning. Their having fun doing what they want because they already gave us everything. The juvenile adventures, the fast paced rock, the experimental ambience, dessert/new age anthems, the sexiest most polished rock n roll you’ll ever hear and the nostalgic jazz ballads. They said from the start they weren’t selling out. Truth be told, you either enjoy the Monkeys that we have now because your favorite Monkeys Era is never coming back and that’s a rough sentiment most don’t accept
This is it. Just like in life, no one stays the same. They are in a different phase than what they’ve been in years ago. They gave us the fast paced angst, the sexy rock and roll, and now the classical jazz and thankfully we can go back to those whenever we want. The car has a much mature and theatrical sound that just makes sense for where they are at in their career and it just makes me look back and appreciate the ride that they’ve taken us on even more. And no matter what genre they make, its still a masterpiece.
OK, but part of what was great about their early stuff was their fly on the wall punk journalism that gave an intimate look into a world that lots of his uk audience knew, and which anyone who'd been out in a British Town one Saturday night would recognise. It felt like a slice of life, and was comparable to the beats, hunter s Thompson, Ken loach, mike leigh and many others. Even the title of their first album was experience to Saturday night, Sunday morning, a 1960s kitchen sink drama that was one of the first films to show an uncensored look at life for working class northerners that was both sympathetic and dangerous. Songs like riot van, or from the ritzy to the rubble, or sun goes down, or even mardy bum, they were literally reflecting what life was like for a large group of people in a way that hadn't quite been articulated like that before. It all felt so fresh and relevant when it came out, and I remember being 15 and knowing that they'd done something special- it didn't just sound great, it meant something. I agree that the later stuff is musically more interesting, but ultimately it didn't take long for them to become just another band singing songs. Nothing wrong with that, but it's very different from what made them an instant success.
I agree with what you're saying. Also, it's a bit difficult or to be political or in touch with the masses when you're a multi-milionaire, tax paying avoider. ;-)
Did you feel the same way about their second album? That often gets lumped in with the first but to me, it doesn't come across nearly as focused on that zeitgeist.
For me, It's almost as if we see Alex maturing along the band growth. From speed, recklessness, focusing on the adrenaline and euphoria, to a more of a slow, yet hefty and more substantial. It's like watching a man grow up. From being a people pleaser to a more mature, contend grown up man.
I'm gonna be dragged to hell by his fourteen-year-old fans for this, but just to be clear: I love this man. I believe he's one of the best lyricists of my generation and he has an incredibly versatile talent for melody very few musicians have. Having said that: after watching pretty much every video I could find on yt of this last tour, I feel like, even though his voice got SO good these past few years, he's been straining the hell out of it. And I dont think the smoking helps. In all fairness, I loved his voice when he was twenty already, but by the time they made AM his voice had gotten so deep and dry it was an absolute delight. BUT, I feel like he lacks technique for the immense amount of falsetto he's using in his last vocal performances. Now, someone please come feed my cats after his fans lynch me in the town's square, thanks.
@@sejb2002 I agree. I think he's so naturally gifted when it comes to writing lyrics and music, and playing instruments that he probably doesn't consider the possibility of being coached vocally. Having a beautiful voice is not enough, you need to learn how to use it properly so you don't strain your vocal cords. Specially if you're planning on touring for a whole year. Just my two cents.
@@miaferrari958 I agree. Watched AM live in February, it was such a disappointing concert, to the point that I decided I won't bother to see them live anymore. My family is relieved I've moved on from my AM obsession (replaced by others, to be fair ;-) ).
Watching the old footage back to back with recent footage, it's like the old adage "once more, this time with feeling". It's great to see a young band mature, especially when they have so much to give, like the Monkeys do. As a listener, whether you like/dislike the evolution is really just down to personal taste, or perhaps a desire for nostalgia. But for me, it's admirable and I'm happy to follow them on their path. Great analysis video!! It opens your eyes!
In my opinion, Alex is just transitioning to a sound geared toward a more mature audience, as he himself is age 37 now. I see a lot of elements resembling Tom Jones in his new persona and the way he chooses to sing. His goal is to swoon his audience rather than excite them it seems. I don't dig it, but if its what he enjoys making then good for him.
Amazing analysis, thank you for the video. I personally think that right now he sounds the best. He evolved so much. And one of the main reasons why The Car is my favourite era is Alex's voice. It is also one of the main reasons why I love that album so much, his vocals is the key ingredient to why these songs are so touching. Like, Jet Skis on the Moat, or The Car the song, and the best example is Body Paint. He also mastered the delivery of his vocals if you know what I mean. The way these lines are delivered vocally, even when the lines are kind of "spoken" rather than "sung". The best example of what I'm talking about is "remember how they go" from Big Ideas, and actually the whole song Big Ideas.
anyone with a thread of understanding of singing and what happens to you as a singer when you not only sing constantly, but are lucky enough to do it as your job, knows that changes are inevitable and this fella is a great example of an artist who has blossomed and chased down every interest and opportunity he has had in order to keep things moving positively forward. Great singer, songwriter, poet.
this is a really interesting video and explanation. my issue with arctic monkeys is just that i don't find anything after AM particularly enjoyable or fun, and the first two albums were so good that it was hard to live up to them.
Love this breakdown. Ultimately the man is in his 30s. Expecting him to be able to sing the same way he did at 19 is so silly. He'd break his voice. I grew up listening to them, so I get the nostalgia. But the music's matured as they've matured, and fans that were around to love that first album have matured. If you want to listen to those early albums, they're still there, and plenty of bands have released albums trying to capture that magic. I love that every album is getting more and more creative, and that they're performing them how they want to, I hope the complaining doesn't put them off writing what they want to write.
I remember seeing Interpol live in around 2005...and it sounded EXACTLY like the record...and I was stunned at how disappointed I was... still love the album... but it would have been cool to see them swing out a little...
its not about him being in his 30's as much as it is about he has been touring and recording and playing professional music as his entire career since the 2000s. i am 30 but not playing the same amount obviously, i can still scream/belt and im honestly 200x better than i was at 19. fame murders skill and talent.
he is still talented and skilled obviously, but look at famous singers who are in their 60s, compare them o their 20s, obviously aging happens but as someone who teaches vocal performance i promise you the speed and extent at which these vocalists voices are detiorated is not healthy or normal. thats why he sings different. hed be done by 40
Fucking THANK YOU. It's why I'll defend Arctic Monkeys as one of the absolute BEST mainstream bands of these last two decades: we need more like them. So, so, SO many artists get stuck on a single sound that works and/or is comfortable for them, and that's it. That's their whole career. You may not like their new sound, you may think the quality has dropped (tho I think it's been quite the opposite), but the artistry and artistic integrity is undeniable, and the innovation and growth is admirable. It's one thing to say "I don't like their new sound, I prefer their early stuff" and it's a whole different thing to say "they fell off, they made great stuff but now they just make garbage".
There is an interview I stumbled upon a little while ago where Alex mentioned that he noticed some performers come in late or early (If i remember correctly he noted Frank Sinatra). He expressed he'd rather be late than early which lines up with your analysis of his back-phrasing! I will try to find the interview I'm referencing.
As someone who has been a lifelong arctic monkeys fan I really enjoyed your breakdown and comparisons of how alex's vocal style has changed and how it's directly effected all of the music he sings. To be honest, I was rather dissapointed with The Car but I can appreciate Alex's perspective on trying to "Sing" more, and how that directly translates to his development as a true musician. Top Notch video man!
I honestly anticipate every new Arctic Monkeys album with such joy and excitement. I don't think there's a song yet that they've released that I cannot appreciate. The musical and lyrical genius of Alex is simply an anomaly.
I always felt that A Certain Romance could be sung the way Alex sings it now, using this off tempo, some would say "crooner" style. I think they have always been on this path as a band. While I don't think they are as exciting as they were at their beginning, I'm still interested to see where they go next. I think they will continue to be successful for a long time yet.
Arctic Monkeys is my "Perfect" band. There is not a single record by them that I've disliked. That might be partially due to me discovering them with TBHC first and going back to their previous works but I am irrevocably in love with this band. Every album is a journey on its own and you can tell that there is a lot of soul and love put into them. And the fact that they arent at all afraid of changing directions is what makes them extremely appealing to me. Cant wait to see their next project.
Your journey is similar to mine, I knew a couple of Monkeys songs that I enjoyed but I REALLY got into them with The Car. That album affected so much that I wanted to know more and more about the band, so I revisited their whole catalogue, B-sides, covers, everything, and I can say I love everything, all the changes, and especially love the genius that is Alex Turner.
I just saw him live at this past Friday at Forest Hills Stadium and I almost started crying during the first song because his vocals were just absolutely unreal.
Great job as usual Marc. I totally agree and I see as well the fil rouge connecting all the albums and the evolution of Alex and the band as musicians. It took a while, especially for TBHC, its beauty was clear to me just after The Car was released. Everything just made so much sense! I’m so grateful to them for keeping on with the pursuit of art and beauty after so many years since their first record. Also, their live performances improved so much.
Yup I think we’re witnessing him growing into a singer. Some people will love being on the journey some will have got off at various stops along the way … Me I happy to ride along enjoying each new view along the way 😊
I think their evolution is fascinating… and whilst I totally understand why their fanbase might be split over the changes to their sound - personally I love it. Alex is a great musician and songwriter… and needs to evolve. It’s a bit similar to Radiohead - a lot of fans want to hear ‘Creep’, Fake Plastic Trees’ and ‘No Surprises’ forever… which is great stuff, but In Rainbows, Kid A, Hail to the Thief etc. are equally as good in my opinion.
Thank you for this video. I think you've been very accurate and I totally agree with you about the importance of TLSP experience in Alex's vocal changes and in his way to write and approach the songs. I love the way Alex changes his way to sing, cause I like his voice. I think even 'Suck It And See' has a key role in this process.
I'm the biggest fan of Arctic Monkeys middle period, Humbug, Suck it and See, and AM. And while I don't mind their older stuff, I have not been able to get into their last two albums...and I have tried. I think for me it's not the vocals however it's the switch to the piano driven songs and I'll be honest some of the lyrics I just don't get. That being said I do see why people would like it. I guess I have just accepted that I was only along for part of the ride. I do keep checking out what they are up to though because it's always interesting!
NO VIDEO has caught my attention this quick and kept it for 8 whole fking minutes! THANK YOU FOR THIS VIDEO! Thank you for putting into actual musical terms for techniques that I picked up on from their albums but never could articulate. I can't wait to see where they will go next and I hope you make a follow up to this in the future!
In my opinion all of arctic monkey's albums are great! Always some different type of art in them, and i honestly listen to all of them i like them all, alex turner and his band always know how to bring something new and unique He became better lyrically, talking about profound subjects like tranquiliity base and telling very long stories in a short 4min song, the band became creative over the years and started searching different type of art, even going to the extent of making their own kind of art.
A stunning evolution adding depth, complexity and the maturity over time, gained with age and experience. An entrancing journey....The beauty is in the journey as well as the destination.
Seen them live in May this year… all their music is great, old or new and Alex sounds perfect in any vocals! Arabella or Teddy Picker are great… but come on we can’t deny Sculptures of Anything that goes is not an unique masterpiece
such a good video! so sad to see some ‘fans’ hating on their newer music, i absolutely adore the growth AM has had and can’t wait to see what more they can do
Great video! I'll always appreciate artists that are willing to change and try new things. Humbug is my favorite album of theirs and that wouldn't have happened if they weren't bold and experimental. That said both their current sound and performance style don't really connect with me anymore. I used to love the rawness of their live shows. Some stuff sounded pretty shabby and it's really cool seeing how much they improved individually and as band since the late 00's but I feel like the whole band and Alex especially developed this really performative, mannered style for their live stuff that I don't think that fits well with their early material. I loved that you included the Cornerstone example because that's not stereotypical, punk-influenced Arctic Monkeys but still shows really well how they evolved past that sound completely. The performance doesn't fit the song in the slightest, IMO, so it creates this disconnect between the band and their old songs and with part of their fans as well, like me, who would love to sing along but feel a little bit annoyed, a little bit alienated when Alex decides to sing in a completely different cadence. Still, I'm glad they've been out here doing their thing for so long and staying true to what they like to do. That's what matters most in the long run and hopefully they'll keep doing that for a long time.
Absolutely love the evolution, the sounds influenced by various eras, their look as a band and presence on stage - this is what a creative bottomless well looks like to me :) Also cannot wait to see new albums come out. I am violently in love with the latest 3 albums
I find it interesting how you mention that Alex doesn’t really “sing” on the first two albums so much as talk, as I think some of the best and most exciting melodies by AM are on them, for example Dancing Shoes has those fun little runs in the verses, 505 has the incredibly satisfying belting at the end, and fluorescent adolescent, while having a very simple melody in the bridge, I always find it easy to listen to.
0:35 Well yes its called Acute laryngitis he cant use his voice like how he used to because his voice is completely strained from over using his voice for over 20 years
There definitely is this clear evolution and to me it makes every new album a surprise and a must hear. I was first shocked with Tranquility based hotel & casino, it took me a bit of getting used to and it is today one of my favorite album of theirs ...
I realized over the years that I'm not only an Arctic Monkeys (hardcore) fan, but mostly an Alex Turner fan. There's something about him that you can't quite put your finger on. I love his approach to songwriting, rythm and melodies, harmony also, very effective yet intricate, and in the later years it get increasingly complex. I love his rock and roll attitude, even a sex symbol at times, a true rock star as you could imagine one. I appreciate the way you point TLSP's influence on his artistic evolution. It is plain to see the shift that separates AM from the two last ouput happened prior to TBHC, with the 2016 TLSP album. Btw i wholeheartedly recommend Miles Kane's change the show its a great motown groovy and rocky album, the single 'dont let it get you down' is so goood ! Anyways, great video, i think most of us respect whatever direction they take next, as long as they do it coming from the heart, much love, i wish you all a lot of mudical joy and discoveries !
Great video, thank you! I remember hearing TBHC for the first time... I was not disappointed, but surprised to the extent when I didn't know what to think about these changes in vocals and tempo. But then I just embraced them, and now I absolutely love each Alex's record and manner of singing, from teenage shouts to mature, more sophisticated sound. It's great to see his growth as a vocalist, while the songwriting is unfailingly supreme.
He's getting older and evolving, as we all are. I love the shift their music has taken, personally Tranquility base is the best concept album since Ziggy. AND they followed AM with that album. Honestly only the Monkeys of the OG generation of indie have remained relevant and theres a reason for it. Alex is a generational talent
I think that Alex is a phenomenal singer and that it's great that he's exploring his vocals and new songs are great but maybe if he sang old songs more similar to how they were recorded it would be better. But ofc I love AM and TLSP and I absolutely support everything they do and they are the best either way
AM is one of my favorite bands, I've been following them from the beginning. To me it's been a nice change of pace that as I've aged and matured in life a band like AM has also matured. They aren't afraid to create new sounds or experiment and write the way they want for their personal gratification, more bands should do this in my opinion. You can compare it to the Beatles which their eclectic albums that diverge from each other. And I agree with Matt, if you look at each album they slowly went down this evolution of music and each album is a piece of evidence. Suck it and See is probably the major shift in Alex Turners vocal style and Tranquility Based Hotel and Casino is definitely when the musically shifted with the whole band. I've enjoyed every album and can't wait until they come out with their next one. God speed Arctic Monkeys!
Fantastic video. I'd add that it's never only the music that affects peoples opinions on this; It's also fashion. AM helped revive the British indie rock genre here in the UK, and I think that's what people expected. Their music had those musical traits of speed, aggression, rawness - more importantly, it had that spirit of the English working-class which many of us grew up with. It was of our time and our environment. As they develop musically, they start going into piano, orchestras and vocals, expressing more of a lounge jazz aesthetic, but in a poppy, contrived kind of way. It takes their music further away from their audience - some might say it's even alienating their audience. It's not "bad" or "worse" in my opinion, just different, and I don't listen to it.
Agreed it happens to most bands once they make it big they try to 'evolve their sound' which is code for make it more pretentious and niche. I guess they do this because they start hanging around with more musicians and critics so they try to impress them rather than the fans of early stuff. The only issue with the artic monkeys is that turner's singing now ruins the early stuff.
@@jackclifford6543 Yeah, the way it affects the live renditions is in poor musical taste IMO. You're probably right in that they are trying to appeal to different people. I don't think they should 'aim' to appeal for appeasing their 'original' fans, but they should at least make music for themselves. I think when bands evolve, they chase sounds or aesthetics that they are genuinely interested in, it's received really well, even by their "original" audience. People can generally can tell when the "evolution" is genuine or not.
I just want him to be happy, his voice and style thrill me and it's a joy to my soul to follow the natural changes he's going through. It's love. His love of music. And I my love for him and the two bands. Delighted to be on this magical journey. He is an inspiration to me that I thank God for. ❤
He only changed his concert vocals, also as he gets older it may be harder for Alex to sing faster, singing faster also usually takes away from the melodic side of the vocals, I adore all of Alex’s vocals and I think it’s extremely funny when he drags his voice and sings off beat on purpose to troll the crowd
he certainly become better and developed like a real rock star should imho. he is deeper as he is not a teenager or young adult anymore. when you can see it in his work then I become more intrigued. and he would not last if he stayed the same because he would probably get sick of singing like a teenager as he is 38 now. glad that I have a band that still continues to make music and grows and changes like I am.
i’m so fascinated by this band. ik a lot of people are stuck on their old albums but i just love the new ones. they’re so much more artistic and there’s so much to appreciate
The point is that for me personally, the music matured just as I as the audience matured which allowed me to enjoy the majority of their songs rather than just listening to older records nostalgically
God he's so brilliant. It's more than how he sings, it's also the lyrics and then the production. So much genius comes out of his brain like HOW CAN HE JUST WRITE SOMETHING LIKE "do your time travelling through the tanning booth, so you don't let the sun catch you crying"?!?!
Very cool analysis. I had similar thoughts about the Last Shadow Puppets Influences when Tranquility came out. I would be curious to know (maybe someone from the community can help here) whether there could be a health/durability aspect to the whole thing. Maybe Alex's original style is just not sustainable for 20years of 2hour shows
alex is still an incredible singer and the last shadow puppets have influenced his style of singing of course. and they said their 8th album will be quite similar to FWN which will then be more fast paced. I love all their albums so much
@@prettyvisitor_ omg hey so there was this article clip i saw on instagram, but i don't remember the username of the account but it seemed legit. all i rly want tbh is to see them live again and get more music from regardless if their new album does sound like fwn or not yk. ill see if i can find the post again though xx
Growth and versatility should be appreciated from a 20yrs old band, considering there are many examples of artists doing the same shit for decades Much love, The Colibris
his evolution in music shows maturity. when we listen to his discography we need to keep in mind he was a TEENAGER in wpsiatwin. he’s about to be 40 now.
Really insightful and a nice recap. I really agree with you about The Last Shadow Puppets albums allowing AT to experiment with his voice and then develop that in the next Arctic Monkeys albums!
No complaints IV always been intrigued by Arctic monkeys changes over the years. and I like to think that music now has a deeper value it's well thought out.... I love it and look forward to anything they have to say chances are I'll end up appreciating that bubble of relatability😮
I love TBHAC and it seems to me like a logical progression from AM. The Car I haven't really got into but I'm definitely willing to give it another try, since the stuff I like the most often doesn't stick at first. Even if I end up deciding I really don't like it, I'm just glad they're changing it up and keeping it fresh so the next release is always exciting. I've drifted from a lot of bands I loved because it feels like they keep scraping the same old barrel over and over again.
It's divisive because people often want bands to not really evolve and to just sound the same on every record. Alex Turner and Arctic Monkeys in general are doing what legendary artists before them like The Beatles or David Bowie (not saying AM is quite in either of their leagues yet) did though -- experiment with different sounds and genres to expand their profile as artists. Personally I love that there's so much variety in their albums and I say that as someone whose favorite AM album is still FWN. I just look forward to seeing what their next step will be in sound as they continue to build up their place in the canon of truly great bands.
Not all bands are capable of altering their sound, that's why most bands have at best 2 to 3 good albums and an army of stans trying to convince people their new stuff is good. The only thing that annoys me about the Arctic monkeys is that Turner butchers the old songs with his terrible wannabe lounge singer voice 😂
I love their new music. Really tasteful scores. Almost film like. Dudes are aging and getting more sophisticated in their composition. His old work is there for listening.
in my opinion the biggest change was the switch from writing on guitar to writing on piano, it completely changed his way of thinking about music
I completely agree with that. It really shows in the song structure, tempo, and melodies. It really changed their whole genre as others have pointed out.
Yep, so glad he got that piano lol. If he didn't we'd probably just get AM2
@@i_dont_know_who_i_am69 i'm up for AM2 any time :)
@@i_dont_know_who_i_am69i prefer fwn 2...
ow, 505 likes on your comment, I won't like it, just to be that
He’s technically a better singer now than he was. He has better resonance and breath support. He’s a great singer. A very unique voice. I think their current music isn’t as exciting as it was in the past, though
That was unexplained, he slowed down the songs and made them simpler to allow better resonance and keep his breath in control.
@@kakuzugoated873 great singer? 🤣
@@jrex3575 I never said the words "great singer"...
@@kakuzugoated873
I highly doubt that their current slower music is because Alex needs the music to go slower because he can’t sing quickly. Singing slow songs isn’t easier than singing fast. Holding a slow note, and doing it well, is pretty difficult. He sounds good singing old uptempo stuff with his current better technique. He sounds, to me, like he has great control over his voice, fast or slow
@@stampede4107 NO, slower notes are always easier if they're of the same complexity. The reason some slow songs are hard is also cuz they're made much more complex. However his nee stuff is slower AND simpler. Pretty easy to tell
It is so refreshing seeing a video actually break down vocal mechanics rather than just engaging in a culture war of which era they like more.
Thank you!!
Culture war??😂 Calm tha fuk down
it's spot on, they just mistook falsetto with head voice range. falsetto is the "airy voice". it's very hard to identify and it's used to explore notes that we would be incapable of hitting naturally, as this technique allows you to sing the overtones of the desired note without the tonic. coincidently, the first example seems to be both head voice and falsetto, but the other ones are just head voice. my singing teacher didn't like the distinction between chest and head voice because we actually have a lot of "registers" that interlap between themselves. if you believe you have just two ways of singing, a strong "chest" voice and a thin "head" voice you'll probably end hurting yourself and singing like sh*t, like I did lol
the correct way of singing is one of these two:
1. you either forget about the original record and sing the best your voice allows you to in that register (wich probably will sound different from the way the original singer does it), or
2. you transpose it into a region where you can replicate the original singer's style. this won't work if you don't have the same vocal range.
also, you should explore different ways of singing the same notes, even more if you feel they hurt you or are difficult to sing. this way you can find the adequate technique for YOUR voice, as your voice is unique, and your technique should, consequently, be too. take inspiration from other singers, but NEVER try to replicate them. you can't sing like they do, just as they can't sing like you 😉
ikr this is an amazing video
he went from a likeable singer to an egotistical crooner. bruh, if it aint broken, don't tinker with it.
before he was more euphoric
Now he is calmer
Maybe he sings according to how he feels.
a voz dele mudou bastante nos últimos anos tlgd, nos últimos 2 discos dá pra perceber legal isso nele, ele parece ter mais confiança pra fazer outras técnicas vocais, enfim um dos meus cantores favoritos!!!
Salve gustavao vejo seu canal todos os dias kkkkkk
O mago do UA-cam, reage y reage jkkkkkkkkk grande Gustavo SZ
Salve, Gustavo!
I mean, he was 19 when AM first headlined Glastonbury, he's in his thirties now. He's also been smoking during all that time, and the music that inspired their most recent ventures (Nick Cave, Leonard Cohen) isn't exactly known for loud frantic tenor singing, it makes sense that he's in a more baritone croon now.
I don't think the new albums are "bad", it's just that the music is so different from what AM used to bring, it appeals to a different audience. and that's why it's so polarising.
it's still called "Arctic Monkeys", it's still the same band, but the music is almost a completely different genre. And the 2008 fans are still hungry for a new "Whatever people say" or "favourite worst nightmare". which makes them dislike "Hotel" or "the car"
Hotel is flawless
Exactly. I miss the high gain fast guitars with basic riffs and yelling thick accent vocals that zoom around. Now we have the classic case of trying to sound American and it’s annoying because that’s not his natural voice but if I didn’t associate the new stuff with the old I would enjoy the new stuff better but I can’t separate the fact that I know he’s trying hard to sound American and it’s unsettling
@@LevWaxScreamshe’s lived outside of Sheffield for more than a decade of course his accent is gonna change. What a weird thing to say lol. Plus yeah obviously they’re gonna grow and develop as a band and people after nearly 20 years lmao.
I think the change would have been so much less polarizing for people if Everything You’ve Come to Expect was more known.
@@LevWaxScreams I don't think he tries to sound american, most (british) people just lose their accent when singing.
"It's partly that many of the distinctive characteristics of an accent aren't reproduced well when you sing. Vowel sounds get stretched, and the precise articulation of the consonants is lost. The result is a neutral baseline accent that sounds vaguely American."
You can only hear his british accent when he is singing so fast it's more like rapping.
it’s been 16 years how do people expect his voice to sound the same
Not the same, only not like shit
@@Utilitarismopastroni his voice does NOT sound like shit be fucking for real rn
Alex Turner's voice was interesting, but now sounds like a generic lounge singer. Strangely, Morrisey's current vocal style is almost identical to Alex's current vocal style.
The Rolling Stones, Metallica, Guns N' Roses-growing older doesn't mean your musical style has to change. While your lyrics might evolve and your technique can improve, there's no rule saying that age should push you from rock to another genre.
@@PaolaLaborda where's the rule saying it has to stay the same though? personally, i love the new stuff from am, even more than their earlier songs
They started very young and their sound was faster and punkish. As artists it only makes sense for them to evolve and not to use the same formula again and again. And I appreciate that Alex is singing now in this more melodic and sensual way, he has transformed many of their songs. It makes sense as he’s almost forty, not the teenager he was when they first started.
It's boring though
@@lordjzargo7940that's just like your opinion man
I get that he/they have evolved but it wouldn’t hurt him to still play the old songs the way he used to at concerts and play the newer, slower songs as he does (which are still good)
@@grantmitchell741 they do that on specific songs, it must be boring even for them to perform their songs in exactly the same way for so many years. 505 which is slowed down at their lives is a 16 year old song! I saw them live this summer and many of their old songs were still fast.
I remember an interview with Noel Gallagher when he said there is only so long you can sing about cigarettes and alcohol. Artists evolve just as we all get old so do they.
The old Artic Monkeys was really something else. Bombastic, youthful, creative, artful without seeming pretentious, with lyrics that were raw yet sophisticated. It was easily my favourite band of that era.
Being a teenager back when the first album dropped (I'm just a bit younger than them) is one of my most cherished memories ❤ you can tell it was made by teenagers. They've grown up, and it happens to all of us.
You description was perfect. It was easily the best band of that era too. I only really discovered them many years later (in their early days I was turned off by how much they looked like nerdy teenagers) and I remember thinking, "So these kids were still MINORS when they wrote this stuff?!" It's insane how much more refined and interesting both the music and the lyrics were compared to The Strokes, Libertines, Franz Ferdinand, The Hives or any other major garage/indie act of the time.
Yep then they died. Everything up to and including suck it and see was great, AM was mediocre, and everything after was audible diarrhea.
@@yepdontcarebudAM was way better than suck it and see. I like how they’ve developed and changed.
First 2 albums are untouchable.
It’s beautiful yet unknown for the majority of the audience how much TLSP has influenced Alex
Agreed!
as well as the alexandra saviour record he produced
real
@@3minuteswithMarc I also get a lot of Leonard Cohen Vibes from Alex. (Though needed the TLSP cover of Is this what you wanted to notice)
@@Tinyterror-dn5cs Good record btw, feels like a sister record to Humbug in a way (and I love Alexandra's voice)
to be completely frank, alex and the arctic monkeys are one of my favourite bands for a reason. a lot of people will argue with me and say that they miss the garage sound that they had before or that his new era is bad, but thats because hes gotten older, and evolved with his music. i feel like it would be awkward to have a 37 year old man sing about teenage angst and picking up girls at clubs. i love all the tracks on the new albums, and on the old ones! arctic monkeys songs have always been able to make me feel such intense emotions, and they continue to do that. i think the songs on the car are criminally overlooked tbh.
I feel sorry for you, the artic monkeys are pish. Must be shite having arse holes for ear drums
@@Manbearpig4456thanks for an opinion i do not care about. if you dont like them, keep it to yourself. i could care less if you want me to.
@@mirelinkkI agree with you whatever that person is talking about proves that their concept of musical evolution is arse. And that they can’t spell the bands name right lol
@@Manbearpig4456 i feel more sorry for you, you can't spell basic words correctly
The first album isn't _specifically that..._ "teenage angst and picking up girls at clubs", even though it may seem and sound that way.
As someone who is from the same area as them, but a couple of years older, it's pretty much a snapshot time-capsule of the nightlife in that area. The person in the stories isn't the protagonist as much as the City is, know what I mean?
The incredible variety of music that Alex has made is what has made him my most listened to artist. I can’t get tired of him because he creates so many different vibes with his music, he has a song for every occasion and mood.
Who knows what the next records will sound like!
mellow music for 2am cabaret bars
Yeah. He's so versatile.
The lyric style has changed massively too. From colloquial, relatable and too the point, to introspective abstract metaphors that mean nothing to the average listener. And I think that’s got a lot to do with the fact that after the first few albums Alex Turner didn’t live life as a normal lad from Sheffield anymore so his lyrics aren’t written from that perspective, making them less relatable.
As someone who's more drawn towards vocals and melodies, now I know why I became a fan in 2009.
Interesting!
Really cool video. I've loved every Arctic Monkeys album for different reasons, and your analysis just articulated those reasons perfectly. Keep it up!
Communist arctic monkey's fan?😮😮😮😮😮😮😮😮😮😮😮😮
I am proud of Alex. He has been in the industry since his teens years and he can do whatever he wants, is his legacy. I think people hate on Alex so easily because he never answers, he is not on social media following what they say, and that's not okay. Arctic Monkeys are a great band and they just want to evolve and do what they really wish. I love all their works.
Why are YOU proud of him??? i dont get it...
@@frankkkbard0n315 I'm proud of his achievements. He never wanted to be as big as he is right now and he did it. He has influenced a whole generation. Many young musicians nowdays want to be like him. The way he improved as a singer and artist is awesome.
What do you don't understand? He is one of the best songwriters of this generation, he is an unproblematic musician and he stays relevant. That's great!!
‘he’s not on social media following what they say, and that’s not okay’
i’m a little confused on what you meant here. did you word it wrong or were you saying it sarcastically?
he doesn’t let unhealthy outside influence of fans affect his music, and doesn’t care for his presence on social media platforms.
i personally find this refreshing and an allusion to his authenticity
@@Jessica-qu1yo I highlighted the YOU part. Why are you proud of him? you can be proud of something you have done yourself , or maybe something your child has done. It just makes no sense feeling proud for him
@@karltannerfookinlegendofgi5243They meant it like, bullying someone because they can't see it isn't a good thing, like talking behind someone's back I guess.
I don't think any of us back in 2006, 2007 would have ever or could have ever imagined that Arctic Monkeys will progress like this and Alex's voice will come to what it is right now. Even though I am not a huge fan of their current style, I surely appreciate the maturity and the fact that they haven't stayed in one place for more than two records. And that's why they are my absolute favourite band.
Batphone is my favourite Arctic Monkeys song because of how impressive Turners vocals and lyricism are
I was gonna include that song for the falsetto part but that chapter was getting too long!
What's song about? I still don't know
@@denisuntoro theres a radio interview where he talks about the influences of the whole album somewhere.
@@denisuntoro It's about social media, the internet, technology, and our time around those concepts, as well as what it is like being Alex Turner (basically the nostalgic, introverted rockstar who doesn't like this particular era) in this context. It's also a love song, too, in many ways, just like the most of other TBHC tunes.
It's my favourite song in TBHC and I'd gladly watch a whole video about it. There's so much to discern!
Alex Turner is an artist, through and through. I love that he is not afraid to experiment and change even if he gets hate because of it. Arctic Monkeys and TLSP are my perfect bands. I hope they can make multiple more albums, im sure true fans will love his/their work
I actually think they went from this group of kids that were just messing around in a garage to creating absolutely beautiful pieces of art. These new albums are definitely underappreciated but for me I think the last two albums were absolutely phenomenal and extremely creative. Wherever they go from here I am completely on board with them.
🤝
Me too bro!!
me too!
Tbh, I feel completely the opposite. I feel that they made truly a post-punk garage rock masterpiece with such creativity and nuances that made them brilliant. But after their debut, it seems clear to me that the band lost themselves. I could explain why but I dont wanna offend your tastes, if you like the news albums thats fine, I at least think that Tranquility Base is great
@@alex11v3dude, i see it in the exact same way. for me, their debut is their ultimate masterpiece no doubt. peak of art intensity that only youth can offer. unique and atemporal sound, which keeps, sadly, getting lost as time passes by. his immature and extremely creative singing in their debut was precisely what brought them so much appreciation for it.
I saw arctic monkeys in concert last night, and was super impressed by Alex’s live vocals. With some bands, I go into concerts half expecting the singer to not sound as good live- it happens, because singing live for two hours every night can be tough. But he totally nailed it and had great stage presence too.
I agree about his vocals being very impressive live. Listening to them IRL and in audio is just interchangeable.
As a fan of Alex and Arctic Monkeys since day one, their first two albums got me goosebumps with genius lyrics from alex and their catchy riffs. When Humbug's out, for a moment i was quite disappointed because their garage/punk sound were gone and i think this is not Arctic that i was like before. Until SIAS album i realized that Alex never gonna repeat same formulas for their songs twice. And continuing for AM, TBHC and The Car album, i can say that their musical experience has evolved and i can deal with that. And for sure, Alex is one of the greatest lyricist of this era.
Same here. The first two albums are my favorites cause is the first stuff that I've heard from them. But I understand people who probably met them on another phase to prefer the 'new' AM, they're not bad, is just another style
I remember being a young Australian journalist living in London when The Arctics did the first TV appearance for Dancefloor. It was completely shattering. I was buzzing all over. It was the moment anyone who had a clue just got on the phone to their label. These days, I enjoy the songwriting and his unique pretence. It's like he's living in a parallel bubble just outside of the truth. Which is, I guess, what successful artists do.
Oh that's cool!
The evolution of the Monkeys as a whole definitely had some fans coming and going, the truth is that Alex and the whole group have matured in their sound and technicality. When you get so much experience on stage, on instrument and as a band, it’s unnatural to sound the same as you did in the beginning. Their having fun doing what they want because they already gave us everything. The juvenile adventures, the fast paced rock, the experimental ambience, dessert/new age anthems, the sexiest most polished rock n roll you’ll ever hear and the nostalgic jazz ballads. They said from the start they weren’t selling out.
Truth be told, you either enjoy the Monkeys that we have now because your favorite Monkeys Era is never coming back and that’s a rough sentiment most don’t accept
U said it all
This is it. Just like in life, no one stays the same. They are in a different phase than what they’ve been in years ago. They gave us the fast paced angst, the sexy rock and roll, and now the classical jazz and thankfully we can go back to those whenever we want. The car has a much mature and theatrical sound that just makes sense for where they are at in their career and it just makes me look back and appreciate the ride that they’ve taken us on even more. And no matter what genre they make, its still a masterpiece.
Wise up you muppet they are absolutely pish
There's a sweet irony now in the line "you're not from New York City, you're from Rotherham" in Fake Tales of San Francisco
Get off the bandwagon and put down the handbook.
OK, but part of what was great about their early stuff was their fly on the wall punk journalism that gave an intimate look into a world that lots of his uk audience knew, and which anyone who'd been out in a British Town one Saturday night would recognise. It felt like a slice of life, and was comparable to the beats, hunter s Thompson, Ken loach, mike leigh and many others. Even the title of their first album was experience to Saturday night, Sunday morning, a 1960s kitchen sink drama that was one of the first films to show an uncensored look at life for working class northerners that was both sympathetic and dangerous. Songs like riot van, or from the ritzy to the rubble, or sun goes down, or even mardy bum, they were literally reflecting what life was like for a large group of people in a way that hadn't quite been articulated like that before. It all felt so fresh and relevant when it came out, and I remember being 15 and knowing that they'd done something special- it didn't just sound great, it meant something.
I agree that the later stuff is musically more interesting, but ultimately it didn't take long for them to become just another band singing songs. Nothing wrong with that, but it's very different from what made them an instant success.
I 100% agree with this
I agree with what you're saying. Also, it's a bit difficult or to be political or in touch with the masses when you're a multi-milionaire, tax paying avoider. ;-)
Did you feel the same way about their second album? That often gets lumped in with the first but to me, it doesn't come across nearly as focused on that zeitgeist.
Absolutely brillianty put. Thank you. That's exactly it.
This is exactly how I feel. Nothing after their debut was comparable or closely aligned with the rigor of the first.
For me, It's almost as if we see Alex maturing along the band growth.
From speed, recklessness, focusing on the adrenaline and euphoria,
to a more of a slow, yet hefty and more substantial.
It's like watching a man grow up.
From being a people pleaser to a more mature, contend grown up man.
Exactly. He was a teenager when they first started blowing up…
Like a boxer. Question of age. He changed like all of us. But I like it. He's got style.
Alex turner has turn into the most unique musician I ever seen he evolves as his music does too
Haha Go and check out more music then. There are over 100 more unique musicians than him. Honestly.
I'm gonna be dragged to hell by his fourteen-year-old fans for this, but just to be clear: I love this man. I believe he's one of the best lyricists of my generation and he has an incredibly versatile talent for melody very few musicians have.
Having said that: after watching pretty much every video I could find on yt of this last tour, I feel like, even though his voice got SO good these past few years, he's been straining the hell out of it. And I dont think the smoking helps.
In all fairness, I loved his voice when he was twenty already, but by the time they made AM his voice had gotten so deep and dry it was an absolute delight. BUT, I feel like he lacks technique for the immense amount of falsetto he's using in his last vocal performances.
Now, someone please come feed my cats after his fans lynch me in the town's square, thanks.
Couldn't have said it better myself
He seems like the type of person to want to learn things on his own accord, so don’t think he would of had vocal coaching or very minimal
@@sejb2002 I agree. I think he's so naturally gifted when it comes to writing lyrics and music, and playing instruments that he probably doesn't consider the possibility of being coached vocally. Having a beautiful voice is not enough, you need to learn how to use it properly so you don't strain your vocal cords. Specially if you're planning on touring for a whole year. Just my two cents.
@@miaferrari958 I agree. Watched AM live in February, it was such a disappointing concert, to the point that I decided I won't bother to see them live anymore. My family is relieved I've moved on from my AM obsession (replaced by others, to be fair ;-) ).
@@miaferrari958 100 percent !!
A person's singing voice is perfectly capable of changing as they age. How people don't understand this is beyond me.
Also, they're allowed to change how they sing.
Nobody is saying they're not allowed to change. They're saying they don't like what it change into.
Watching the old footage back to back with recent footage, it's like the old adage "once more, this time with feeling". It's great to see a young band mature, especially when they have so much to give, like the Monkeys do. As a listener, whether you like/dislike the evolution is really just down to personal taste, or perhaps a desire for nostalgia. But for me, it's admirable and I'm happy to follow them on their path.
Great analysis video!! It opens your eyes!
Thanks a lot!!
Well put!
In my opinion, Alex is just transitioning to a sound geared toward a more mature audience, as he himself is age 37 now. I see a lot of elements resembling Tom Jones in his new persona and the way he chooses to sing. His goal is to swoon his audience rather than excite them it seems. I don't dig it, but if its what he enjoys making then good for him.
Amazing analysis, thank you for the video. I personally think that right now he sounds the best. He evolved so much. And one of the main reasons why The Car is my favourite era is Alex's voice. It is also one of the main reasons why I love that album so much, his vocals is the key ingredient to why these songs are so touching. Like, Jet Skis on the Moat, or The Car the song, and the best example is Body Paint. He also mastered the delivery of his vocals if you know what I mean. The way these lines are delivered vocally, even when the lines are kind of "spoken" rather than "sung". The best example of what I'm talking about is "remember how they go" from Big Ideas, and actually the whole song Big Ideas.
Thank you!! True, and Big Ideas is definitely one of the highlights for that
Ch ch ch ch changes
anyone with a thread of understanding of singing and what happens to you as a singer when you not only sing constantly, but are lucky enough to do it as your job, knows that changes are inevitable and this fella is a great example of an artist who has blossomed and chased down every interest and opportunity he has had in order to keep things moving positively forward. Great singer, songwriter, poet.
Great, in depth analysis! I personally admire every moment of their journey and I'm really curious about whats next
Thank you!
this is a really interesting video and explanation. my issue with arctic monkeys is just that i don't find anything after AM particularly enjoyable or fun, and the first two albums were so good that it was hard to live up to them.
I've been probably their biggest fan in 2006-2008. Haven't really listened to them since then.
Those albums rock ;) But you're still missing out on the newer stuff!
Love this breakdown. Ultimately the man is in his 30s. Expecting him to be able to sing the same way he did at 19 is so silly. He'd break his voice.
I grew up listening to them, so I get the nostalgia. But the music's matured as they've matured, and fans that were around to love that first album have matured. If you want to listen to those early albums, they're still there, and plenty of bands have released albums trying to capture that magic.
I love that every album is getting more and more creative, and that they're performing them how they want to, I hope the complaining doesn't put them off writing what they want to write.
Exactly that is so silly! Enough of the silliness ! 😂
I remember seeing Interpol live in around 2005...and it sounded EXACTLY like the record...and I was stunned at how disappointed I was... still love the album... but it would have been cool to see them swing out a little...
do you have an recommendations for bands who have a style like their older music? I can never find anything good lol
its not about him being in his 30's as much as it is about he has been touring and recording and playing professional music as his entire career since the 2000s. i am 30 but not playing the same amount obviously, i can still scream/belt and im honestly 200x better than i was at 19. fame murders skill and talent.
he is still talented and skilled obviously, but look at famous singers who are in their 60s, compare them o their 20s, obviously aging happens but as someone who teaches vocal performance i promise you the speed and extent at which these vocalists voices are detiorated is not healthy or normal. thats why he sings different. hed be done by 40
Really love how Alex as well as the band evolved with time. I feel like Alex matured as he aged, and somehow it has been parallel to my mental age.
true artists innovate and aren't afraid to change and grow.
Exactly, just like bowie
Fucking THANK YOU. It's why I'll defend Arctic Monkeys as one of the absolute BEST mainstream bands of these last two decades: we need more like them. So, so, SO many artists get stuck on a single sound that works and/or is comfortable for them, and that's it. That's their whole career.
You may not like their new sound, you may think the quality has dropped (tho I think it's been quite the opposite), but the artistry and artistic integrity is undeniable, and the innovation and growth is admirable. It's one thing to say "I don't like their new sound, I prefer their early stuff" and it's a whole different thing to say "they fell off, they made great stuff but now they just make garbage".
There is an interview I stumbled upon a little while ago where Alex mentioned that he noticed some performers come in late or early (If i remember correctly he noted Frank Sinatra). He expressed he'd rather be late than early which lines up with your analysis of his back-phrasing! I will try to find the interview I'm referencing.
Oh that's cool, please share if you find it!
As someone who has been a lifelong arctic monkeys fan I really enjoyed your breakdown and comparisons of how alex's vocal style has changed and how it's directly effected all of the music he sings. To be honest, I was rather dissapointed with The Car but I can appreciate Alex's perspective on trying to "Sing" more, and how that directly translates to his development as a true musician. Top Notch video man!
One of the best current singers in rock. Incredible voice, musicality and range.
I honestly anticipate every new Arctic Monkeys album with such joy and excitement. I don't think there's a song yet that they've released that I cannot appreciate. The musical and lyrical genius of Alex is simply an anomaly.
im 13 and personally i love all of the albums. I think the band has a song for every mood ever. I love Alex Turner
I always felt that A Certain Romance could be sung the way Alex sings it now, using this off tempo, some would say "crooner" style. I think they have always been on this path as a band. While I don't think they are as exciting as they were at their beginning, I'm still interested to see where they go next. I think they will continue to be successful for a long time yet.
Arctic Monkeys is my "Perfect" band. There is not a single record by them that I've disliked. That might be partially due to me discovering them with TBHC first and going back to their previous works but I am irrevocably in love with this band. Every album is a journey on its own and you can tell that there is a lot of soul and love put into them. And the fact that they arent at all afraid of changing directions is what makes them extremely appealing to me. Cant wait to see their next project.
I feel sorry for you, they are pish. You need to listen to a proper band
@@Manbearpig4456why are you even watching this video?
Your journey is similar to mine, I knew a couple of Monkeys songs that I enjoyed but I REALLY got into them with The Car. That album affected so much that I wanted to know more and more about the band, so I revisited their whole catalogue, B-sides, covers, everything, and I can say I love everything, all the changes, and especially love the genius that is Alex Turner.
I just saw him live at this past Friday at Forest Hills Stadium and I almost started crying during the first song because his vocals were just absolutely unreal.
Great job as usual Marc. I totally agree and I see as well the fil rouge connecting all the albums and the evolution of Alex and the band as musicians. It took a while, especially for TBHC, its beauty was clear to me just after The Car was released. Everything just made so much sense!
I’m so grateful to them for keeping on with the pursuit of art and beauty after so many years since their first record.
Also, their live performances improved so much.
Thanks a lot! Yes definitely agree
❤
Love Alex..I'm 32 and been a fan since they came out..seeing him perform live was..well I just fell in ❤️
Yup I think we’re witnessing him growing into a singer. Some people will love being on the journey some will have got off at various stops along the way … Me I happy to ride along enjoying each new view along the way 😊
I think their evolution is fascinating… and whilst I totally understand why their fanbase might be split over the changes to their sound - personally I love it.
Alex is a great musician and songwriter… and needs to evolve.
It’s a bit similar to Radiohead - a lot of fans want to hear ‘Creep’, Fake Plastic Trees’ and ‘No Surprises’ forever… which is great stuff, but In Rainbows, Kid A, Hail to the Thief etc. are equally as good in my opinion.
What they did with both The Last Shadow Puppets albums is phenomenal.
You beautifully encapsulated music theory and artistic evolution in a very well produced video. Thanks!
Thank you so much!
Thank you for this video. I think you've been very accurate and I totally agree with you about the importance of TLSP experience in Alex's vocal changes and in his way to write and approach the songs.
I love the way Alex changes his way to sing, cause I like his voice. I think even 'Suck It And See' has a key role in this process.
Thanks a lot! Yes I wanted to include Love is a Lazerquest (for the Melody / Deep range chapter) but that part was getting a bit too long
I'm the biggest fan of Arctic Monkeys middle period, Humbug, Suck it and See, and AM. And while I don't mind their older stuff, I have not been able to get into their last two albums...and I have tried. I think for me it's not the vocals however it's the switch to the piano driven songs and I'll be honest some of the lyrics I just don't get.
That being said I do see why people would like it. I guess I have just accepted that I was only along for part of the ride. I do keep checking out what they are up to though because it's always interesting!
Mr. Baritone has entered the chat
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NO VIDEO has caught my attention this quick and kept it for 8 whole fking minutes! THANK YOU FOR THIS VIDEO! Thank you for putting into actual musical terms for techniques that I picked up on from their albums but never could articulate. I can't wait to see where they will go next and I hope you make a follow up to this in the future!
In my opinion all of arctic monkey's albums are great! Always some different type of art in them, and i honestly listen to all of them i like them all, alex turner and his band always know how to bring something new and unique
He became better lyrically, talking about profound subjects like tranquiliity base and telling very long stories in a short 4min song, the band became creative over the years and started searching different type of art, even going to the extent of making their own kind of art.
A stunning evolution adding depth, complexity and the maturity over time, gained with age and experience. An entrancing journey....The beauty is in the journey as well as the destination.
Seen them live in May this year… all their music is great, old or new and Alex sounds perfect in any vocals! Arabella or Teddy Picker are great… but come on we can’t deny Sculptures of Anything that goes is not an unique masterpiece
such a good video! so sad to see some ‘fans’ hating on their newer music, i absolutely adore the growth AM has had and can’t wait to see what more they can do
Great video!
I'll always appreciate artists that are willing to change and try new things. Humbug is my favorite album of theirs and that wouldn't have happened if they weren't bold and experimental.
That said both their current sound and performance style don't really connect with me anymore. I used to love the rawness of their live shows. Some stuff sounded pretty shabby and it's really cool seeing how much they improved individually and as band since the late 00's but I feel like the whole band and Alex especially developed this really performative, mannered style for their live stuff that I don't think that fits well with their early material.
I loved that you included the Cornerstone example because that's not stereotypical, punk-influenced Arctic Monkeys but still shows really well how they evolved past that sound completely. The performance doesn't fit the song in the slightest, IMO, so it creates this disconnect between the band and their old songs and with part of their fans as well, like me, who would love to sing along but feel a little bit annoyed, a little bit alienated when Alex decides to sing in a completely different cadence.
Still, I'm glad they've been out here doing their thing for so long and staying true to what they like to do. That's what matters most in the long run and hopefully they'll keep doing that for a long time.
I just watched them live a couple days ago and LOVED his new style
He is and will always be..just a damn classic. He made himself a musical legend.
Absolutely love the evolution, the sounds influenced by various eras, their look as a band and presence on stage - this is what a creative bottomless well looks like to me :) Also cannot wait to see new albums come out. I am violently in love with the latest 3 albums
Saw them at Trnsmt 2018, Sydney last year and Glasgow again this year. Been unreal every single time, the crowd really makes or breaks a performance.
I find it interesting how you mention that Alex doesn’t really “sing” on the first two albums so much as talk, as I think some of the best and most exciting melodies by AM are on them, for example Dancing Shoes has those fun little runs in the verses, 505 has the incredibly satisfying belting at the end, and fluorescent adolescent, while having a very simple melody in the bridge, I always find it easy to listen to.
Love his new style.
How lucky we are to have a band that evolves and grows with every album.
0:35 Well yes its called Acute laryngitis he cant use his voice like how he used to because his voice is completely strained from over using his voice for over 20 years
He Just got worse at singing
@@ArtificialHarmonicwrong👎
There definitely is this clear evolution and to me it makes every new album a surprise and a must hear. I was first shocked with Tranquility based hotel & casino, it took me a bit of getting used to and it is today one of my favorite album of theirs ...
I realized over the years that I'm not only an Arctic Monkeys (hardcore) fan, but mostly an Alex Turner fan. There's something about him that you can't quite put your finger on. I love his approach to songwriting, rythm and melodies, harmony also, very effective yet intricate, and in the later years it get increasingly complex. I love his rock and roll attitude, even a sex symbol at times, a true rock star as you could imagine one. I appreciate the way you point TLSP's influence on his artistic evolution. It is plain to see the shift that separates AM from the two last ouput happened prior to TBHC, with the 2016 TLSP album. Btw i wholeheartedly recommend Miles Kane's change the show its a great motown groovy and rocky album, the single 'dont let it get you down' is so goood ! Anyways, great video, i think most of us respect whatever direction they take next, as long as they do it coming from the heart, much love, i wish you all a lot of mudical joy and discoveries !
Great video, thank you!
I remember hearing TBHC for the first time... I was not disappointed, but surprised to the extent when I didn't know what to think about these changes in vocals and tempo. But then I just embraced them, and now I absolutely love each Alex's record and manner of singing, from teenage shouts to mature, more sophisticated sound.
It's great to see his growth as a vocalist, while the songwriting is unfailingly supreme.
the title of this vid sums it up perfectly ❤🙌
Yes!
the editing in this video is great
He's getting older and evolving, as we all are. I love the shift their music has taken, personally Tranquility base is the best concept album since Ziggy. AND they followed AM with that album. Honestly only the Monkeys of the OG generation of indie have remained relevant and theres a reason for it. Alex is a generational talent
Your analysis and path finding is fantastic, really shows how his voice changed across the different records, great job!!
I think that Alex is a phenomenal singer and that it's great that he's exploring his vocals and new songs are great but maybe if he sang old songs more similar to how they were recorded it would be better. But ofc I love AM and TLSP and I absolutely support everything they do and they are the best either way
AM is one of my favorite bands, I've been following them from the beginning. To me it's been a nice change of pace that as I've aged and matured in life a band like AM has also matured. They aren't afraid to create new sounds or experiment and write the way they want for their personal gratification, more bands should do this in my opinion. You can compare it to the Beatles which their eclectic albums that diverge from each other. And I agree with Matt, if you look at each album they slowly went down this evolution of music and each album is a piece of evidence. Suck it and See is probably the major shift in Alex Turners vocal style and Tranquility Based Hotel and Casino is definitely when the musically shifted with the whole band. I've enjoyed every album and can't wait until they come out with their next one. God speed Arctic Monkeys!
Fantastic video. I'd add that it's never only the music that affects peoples opinions on this; It's also fashion. AM helped revive the British indie rock genre here in the UK, and I think that's what people expected. Their music had those musical traits of speed, aggression, rawness - more importantly, it had that spirit of the English working-class which many of us grew up with. It was of our time and our environment. As they develop musically, they start going into piano, orchestras and vocals, expressing more of a lounge jazz aesthetic, but in a poppy, contrived kind of way. It takes their music further away from their audience - some might say it's even alienating their audience. It's not "bad" or "worse" in my opinion, just different, and I don't listen to it.
Agreed it happens to most bands once they make it big they try to 'evolve their sound' which is code for make it more pretentious and niche. I guess they do this because they start hanging around with more musicians and critics so they try to impress them rather than the fans of early stuff. The only issue with the artic monkeys is that turner's singing now ruins the early stuff.
@@jackclifford6543 Yeah, the way it affects the live renditions is in poor musical taste IMO. You're probably right in that they are trying to appeal to different people.
I don't think they should 'aim' to appeal for appeasing their 'original' fans, but they should at least make music for themselves. I think when bands evolve, they chase sounds or aesthetics that they are genuinely interested in, it's received really well, even by their "original" audience. People can generally can tell when the "evolution" is genuine or not.
His singing hasn't gotten worse, it's just different, and you know how people react to difference and change on the internet.
I just want him to be happy, his voice and style thrill me and it's a joy to my soul to follow the natural changes he's going through. It's love. His love of music. And I my love for him and the two bands. Delighted to be on this magical journey. He is an inspiration to me that I thank God for. ❤
He only changed his concert vocals, also as he gets older it may be harder for Alex to sing faster, singing faster also usually takes away from the melodic side of the vocals, I adore all of Alex’s vocals and I think it’s extremely funny when he drags his voice and sings off beat on purpose to troll the crowd
he certainly become better and developed like a real rock star should imho. he is deeper as he is not a teenager or young adult anymore. when you can see it in his work then I become more intrigued. and he would not last if he stayed the same because he would probably get sick of singing like a teenager as he is 38 now.
glad that I have a band that still continues to make music and grows and changes like I am.
i’m so fascinated by this band. ik a lot of people are stuck on their old albums but i just love the new ones. they’re so much more artistic and there’s so much to appreciate
Because they are boring compared to the old stuff
The old stuff is pish the new stuff is pish and the next album will be pish as well
The point is that for me personally, the music matured just as I as the audience matured which allowed me to enjoy the majority of their songs rather than just listening to older records nostalgically
The vocals have gotten sooooo much better I love the news album it's literally their best
God he's so brilliant. It's more than how he sings, it's also the lyrics and then the production. So much genius comes out of his brain like HOW CAN HE JUST WRITE SOMETHING LIKE "do your time travelling through the tanning booth, so you don't let the sun catch you crying"?!?!
Very cool analysis. I had similar thoughts about the Last Shadow Puppets Influences when Tranquility came out. I would be curious to know (maybe someone from the community can help here) whether there could be a health/durability aspect to the whole thing. Maybe Alex's original style is just not sustainable for 20years of 2hour shows
Thank you!!
alex is still an incredible singer and the last shadow puppets have influenced his style of singing of course. and they said their 8th album will be quite similar to FWN which will then be more fast paced. I love all their albums so much
if you don't mind me asking, where did you hear the part where they said their 8th studio album will be similar to favorite worst nightmare?
@@prettyvisitor_ omg hey so there was this article clip i saw on instagram, but i don't remember the username of the account but it seemed legit. all i rly want tbh is to see them live again and get more music from regardless if their new album does sound like fwn or not yk. ill see if i can find the post again though xx
@@margobeznosyuk honestly same! thanks :)
He's a bad lead singer purely for the fact he can't sing all of there songs well anymore 😂
Growth and versatility should be appreciated from a 20yrs old band, considering there are many examples of artists doing the same shit for decades
Much love,
The Colibris
Couldn't agree more
his evolution in music shows maturity. when we listen to his discography we need to keep in mind he was a TEENAGER in wpsiatwin. he’s about to be 40 now.
Really insightful and a nice recap. I really agree with you about The Last Shadow Puppets albums allowing AT to experiment with his voice and then develop that in the next Arctic Monkeys albums!
No complaints IV always been intrigued by Arctic monkeys changes over the years. and I like to think that music now has a deeper value it's well thought out.... I love it and look forward to anything they have to say chances are I'll end up appreciating that bubble of relatability😮
I love TBHAC and it seems to me like a logical progression from AM. The Car I haven't really got into but I'm definitely willing to give it another try, since the stuff I like the most often doesn't stick at first. Even if I end up deciding I really don't like it, I'm just glad they're changing it up and keeping it fresh so the next release is always exciting.
I've drifted from a lot of bands I loved because it feels like they keep scraping the same old barrel over and over again.
All I see is an absolutely fantastic musician and artist
It's divisive because people often want bands to not really evolve and to just sound the same on every record. Alex Turner and Arctic Monkeys in general are doing what legendary artists before them like The Beatles or David Bowie (not saying AM is quite in either of their leagues yet) did though -- experiment with different sounds and genres to expand their profile as artists. Personally I love that there's so much variety in their albums and I say that as someone whose favorite AM album is still FWN. I just look forward to seeing what their next step will be in sound as they continue to build up their place in the canon of truly great bands.
Not all bands are capable of altering their sound, that's why most bands have at best 2 to 3 good albums and an army of stans trying to convince people their new stuff is good. The only thing that annoys me about the Arctic monkeys is that Turner butchers the old songs with his terrible wannabe lounge singer voice 😂
I love their new music. Really tasteful scores. Almost film like. Dudes are aging and getting more sophisticated in their composition. His old work is there for listening.
i think vocally they are at their peak but i still love those mid-late 2000s records more than any record AM has produced