Tranquility Base Hotel + Casino
by Arctic Monkeys
  • Record Label: Domino
  • Release Date: May 11, 2018
User Score
7.4

Generally favorable reviews- based on 701 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 504 out of 701
  2. Mixed: 103 out of 701
  3. Negative: 94 out of 701
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  1. TheFatAnt
    May 14, 2018
    9
    The most interesting, personal and the deepest project by the Arctic Monkeys so far. Give it more than one listen - you won't regret it.
  2. hiyamich
    May 11, 2018
    10
    An album like no other. Designated in deep space, this thrilling new album provides the band with a diverse catalogue of music and its dramatic switch shows that the boys have moved on from tracky suits and grey adidas socks to something more.. mature.
  3. maxsolipsist
    Jun 24, 2018
    10
    I love it! Breaks genres! Nod to Bowie...Kubrick...easy listening chill and lounge...I do feel sorry for the AM fans out there. Turner made a firm decision - the best artists stay true to the music and themselves
  4. Tiago_Nevez
    May 11, 2018
    7
    An expected album sincerely. AM was a transition album, IMO. This one is just the confirmation of the new Arctic Monkeys. With a stronger influence by Alex Turner, no doubt about that.
  5. sadcat
    Jun 10, 2018
    10
    I really like this album. it sounds so galactic and the album flows nicely from song to song. My favourite song is Tranquility Base Hotel and Casino
  6. Pollie33
    Aug 26, 2018
    10
    The first time I listened to this album, I was shocked at how different it was to the rest of their discography. When I found the strength to give it another try it actually became one of my favorite albums.
  7. grazimendes
    May 16, 2018
    10
    TBH&C is very different from the other Arctic Monkeys albums, but it's a very well planned work. Surely this album will be on the list of best albums of the year.
  8. BillyB95
    May 11, 2018
    7
    TBH&C sounds as its main title says: it makes you feel like you're in a big lounge from a private club, with Turner on the piano and (in this case) his supporting band playing in the background. Its sound has a beautiful treatment, but the lack of chorus and its repetitive tempo makes of TBH&C an album difficult to digest, and it will need more than one hearing for being able to appreciateTBH&C sounds as its main title says: it makes you feel like you're in a big lounge from a private club, with Turner on the piano and (in this case) his supporting band playing in the background. Its sound has a beautiful treatment, but the lack of chorus and its repetitive tempo makes of TBH&C an album difficult to digest, and it will need more than one hearing for being able to appreciate its delicate sound, although on the first hearing, this album doesn't give you enough cheers for giving it a second chance. Despite this, it's undeniable the genius of this British band who makes us know that they still have a lot to tell.… Expand
  9. jsleotta
    May 17, 2018
    10
    This is different but man is this awesome. This is an album that requires multiple listens. First time through for me I was so/so on it. But it's been on repeat for a few days now and I realized it's incredible. Every time through I've uncovered new things, be it interesting lyrics or new details in the songs I missed the first time through. Definitely don't sleep on this one.
  10. rafaelmsolid
    May 11, 2018
    7
    Enough for elevator music. But the execution is okay, awesome bass lines, Alex voice and piano. It's a good album, but sounds better if released with a Alex Turner solo record.
  11. AlexNewcombe
    May 15, 2018
    10
    Arctic Monkeys are evolving, it's a fact. I love Turner's stuff since the debut AM album to the "everything you've come to expect" of the LSP. The first listen was a bit disappointing but after a couple listens, the tunes got stuck in my head and brought me into another dimension where I can finally enjoy a good scotch by night, listening Turner's brand new velvet music. This LP willArctic Monkeys are evolving, it's a fact. I love Turner's stuff since the debut AM album to the "everything you've come to expect" of the LSP. The first listen was a bit disappointing but after a couple listens, the tunes got stuck in my head and brought me into another dimension where I can finally enjoy a good scotch by night, listening Turner's brand new velvet music. This LP will definitely continue over the years, if you trust A.Turner you should try harder to understand his choices and that musical turn. I'm personnaly glad not to hear AM pt.2, TBHC is more intimate and real than other stuff he'd made. I mean, Turner's giving his opinion about politics technology etc... is far more interesting than singing tasteless love songs..… Expand
  12. chi70
    Sep 29, 2018
    10
    The lyrics the sound Alex Turner's voice everything in this album is special and unique- it needs a few listens to get into it but once you are in you won't easily get out, and the journey begins. Blissful.
  13. chrislis1
    May 12, 2018
    7
    I would rather listen to Turner's half-arsed, pretentious, self-indulging songwriting than a lot of what the charts have to offer atm. Yes the album lacks great choruses, catchy hooks, and the songs do blend into one another a bit too much. But "Tranquility" still shows off Turner's profound songwriting ability, even if no-one's quite sure what he's on about this time. Plus, the group'sI would rather listen to Turner's half-arsed, pretentious, self-indulging songwriting than a lot of what the charts have to offer atm. Yes the album lacks great choruses, catchy hooks, and the songs do blend into one another a bit too much. But "Tranquility" still shows off Turner's profound songwriting ability, even if no-one's quite sure what he's on about this time. Plus, the group's range is ever expanded with this release.

    Probably the Arctic's weakest album yet, but still worth a few listens as this is far from a pop album. Not quite "Four Out Of Five" from me though Alex.    … Expand
  14. filipehondrey12
    May 12, 2018
    7
    Not a good album, I'm sure it could be better, but maybe one day I'll enjoy it.
  15. lamlung
    May 11, 2018
    7
    Tranquility Base is an ambitious, if flawed, progression from previous Arctic Monkeys albums. Slower and more introspective, the album shows that the five year departure has not dulled the band's sense of musicianship, and the production values have never been better. Its meandering piano and baselines solidify a space age feel throughout the entirety of the album, looking back to theTranquility Base is an ambitious, if flawed, progression from previous Arctic Monkeys albums. Slower and more introspective, the album shows that the five year departure has not dulled the band's sense of musicianship, and the production values have never been better. Its meandering piano and baselines solidify a space age feel throughout the entirety of the album, looking back to the science fiction classics of the 1960's and 1970's. Guitar is used sparsely, but to good effect throughout, much like the slower songs contained in AM. However, the complexity and layering of the sound is what really shines, and the album lends itself to multiple listens.

    That being said, the album suffers lyrically. The band's albums have never really tried to say much, and that common sensibility ensured a grounded, timeless rock feel. This album tries too hard to make a point, but the lyrics are so muddled and occasionally nonsensical that it is hard to parse what that may be. While this isn't true of every track, it is a running theme throughout the album, and one that distracts from the music itself.

    Overall, this album is one that is certainly deserving of a listen, but will not be for every fan of the Arctic Monkeys. If you cared for AM, then it is at least worth a shot, but even fans of that album will find that five years can do a lot to change the style of a band, and that not all of the changes were for the better.    … Expand
  16. arxnte
    May 25, 2018
    7
    Completamente diferente do que se estava esperando, mas mesmo assim não deixa de surpreender e ter uma qualidade no estilo Arctic Monkeys. Por mais que algumas faixas lembrem "canções de elevador", muitas delas são impressionantes (Four Out of Five que o diga, nos traz para o que já se está acostumado a ser trabalhado pela banda). Do mais, boas letras e um trabalho com poucos defeitos.
  17. SKSK
    Jul 29, 2018
    8
    Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino offers the good listener some introspective moments accompanied by a beautiful and smooth melody. Interesting to see Arctic Monkeys coming out of their comfort zone to offer such a different experience.
  18. murki
    Sep 19, 2018
    10
    Really unexpected but fantastic album. I own it and I am really enjoying listening to it. It is not typical Arctic Monkeys album but it si quality album...you just need to listen deeply in each song. Fu*k Lil Pump, Lil dump, lil that, lil that and that popular "music"...this is worth listening and a lot more attention.
  19. marksantos
    May 13, 2018
    10
    Incredible album, but it may require a few listening sessions to really dive in.
  20. Maj0rTom
    May 11, 2018
    9
    This album is very different to what AM have done in the past, in fact it almost feels like a solo record for Alex Turner (This isn't a bad thing). You really have to go into the album with an open mind, as unlike their previous albums (especially 2013's AM), there isn't very many tracks that could be seen as "Radio Hits" other than maybe "Four out of Five" or the title track, it feelsThis album is very different to what AM have done in the past, in fact it almost feels like a solo record for Alex Turner (This isn't a bad thing). You really have to go into the album with an open mind, as unlike their previous albums (especially 2013's AM), there isn't very many tracks that could be seen as "Radio Hits" other than maybe "Four out of Five" or the title track, it feels like a very chilled out album with some pretty obscure lyrics (some of my favourites are "What do you mean you've never seen Blade Runner?" from "Star Treatment" and "Kiss me underneath the moon's side boob" from the title track. The album reminds me David Bowie and The Eagles in some tracks (especially "Four out of Five" and the title track).
    The album is a definite grower. My favourite tracks are: TBH+C, Four Out Of Five, Science Fiction and The Ultracheese.
    9/10    … Expand
  21. Luiz42
    May 11, 2018
    8
    I prefer the arctic monkeys with more frenetic and rockier songs. But they changed completely, and for me it was not so bad. I had never listened to an album like that, sort of slow space rock with jazz, and I kinda liked it.

    The individual songs are a bit mediocre, but the album as a whole is nice, relaxing, and it takes you to another planet. The big problem is the lack of    I prefer the arctic monkeys with more frenetic and rockier songs. But they changed completely, and for me it was not so bad. I had never listened to an album like that, sort of slow space rock with jazz, and I kinda liked it.

    The individual songs are a bit mediocre, but the album as a whole is nice, relaxing, and it takes you to another planet.

    The big problem is the lack of inspiration , they made songs that sound exactly the same, like "One Point Perspective" and "American Sports". I was already expecting a slower piano album, but one or two heavier guitar songs would be good
    The high point of the album is definitely "Four Out of Five"

    (Sorry for the english, it's not my main language)    … Expand
  22. onlyroma
    May 11, 2018
    10
    There's no problem with a bit different from the previous albums, TBHC is very fresh and beauty with more piano and a bit guitar. overall TBHC is fresh, personal and with powerful details. Good job Arctic Monkeys.
  23. WillMartin
    Aug 25, 2018
    10
    I went into this expecting AM2. Instead I found Humbugs abandoned child taken in by David Bowie. A refreshingly new sound I can't wait to listen more to
  24. critical_
    May 11, 2018
    8
    The more you listen to it, the better it gets. This Arctic Monkeys album shows how their music has evolved and matured. Lyrically, Tranquility Base Hotel + Casino is their best one yet, though some songs can feel a bit dull and empty without the typical AM guitars and drums. Still, the new album proves that the Arctic Monkeys are back and are ready to be more adventurous.
  25. dmkaio
    May 15, 2018
    9
    The irony of not being the album you'd expect from the Arctic Monkeys, but being the perfect picture of what is expected of Alex Turner demonstrates how much the piece needs an effort to understand your idea. The irony is also part of the side where Turner has always been the main character of the lyrics. The thing here is that Alex Turner changed. And maybe you did not want that. QuietThe irony of not being the album you'd expect from the Arctic Monkeys, but being the perfect picture of what is expected of Alex Turner demonstrates how much the piece needs an effort to understand your idea. The irony is also part of the side where Turner has always been the main character of the lyrics. The thing here is that Alex Turner changed. And maybe you did not want that. Quiet but still Noisy, TBHC is the band's most mature and consistent album, even though it may not be considered the best. And like the architecture of a hotel lobby, even on the tenth visit is still able to provide great discoveries. Now, imagine that this hotel is located on the Moon.
    As the only track that can obviously be used as a single repeats "Take it easy for a little while. Come and stay with us. It’s such an easy flight. Cute new places keep on popping up".
    Enjoy.    … Expand
  26. adiosjunebruja
    May 11, 2018
    9
    Stop pinning yourself to the past of the band. They grew up. It's a great album, yes.
  27. jarjarbinkz
    May 11, 2018
    10
    What a change from the previous albums, but a very good change in my opinion. There are some very good tracks on here, with Four out of five as my personal favourite.

    Give this album a fair chance and you'll love it.
  28. destinyfans
    May 11, 2018
    10
    The Arctic Monkeys having been on hiatus for 5 years, have evolved. Alex Turner has matured and fine-tuned his craft of songwriting, and the rest of the band has matured in their instruments, and it shows on their new album. For the band to take such a bold risk and change music style, it worked out perfectly and created a masterpiece. Reminiscent of Bowie, Floyd, and even The Doors,The Arctic Monkeys having been on hiatus for 5 years, have evolved. Alex Turner has matured and fine-tuned his craft of songwriting, and the rest of the band has matured in their instruments, and it shows on their new album. For the band to take such a bold risk and change music style, it worked out perfectly and created a masterpiece. Reminiscent of Bowie, Floyd, and even The Doors, Arctic Monkeys "Tranquility Base Hotel and Casino" shines as a testament and twist to the music of the late 20th century.… Expand
  29. Gpuccetti
    May 11, 2018
    10
    Great album as a whole! There are only a few songs that stand out independently, but taken together it is the best album I have heard this year.
  30. Faryal
    May 11, 2018
    10
    Yes, this is a departure from the bands old stuff - but it's still recognizably Arctic Monkeys. And it's good. The lyricism is taken up a notch even from Turner's usual clever construction, and the musical arrangements are layered and lay well together, yielding some combination of a lounge-y, groovy, spacey vibe. This is a great album to dedicate time to listen to, or to have playing atYes, this is a departure from the bands old stuff - but it's still recognizably Arctic Monkeys. And it's good. The lyricism is taken up a notch even from Turner's usual clever construction, and the musical arrangements are layered and lay well together, yielding some combination of a lounge-y, groovy, spacey vibe. This is a great album to dedicate time to listen to, or to have playing at low volume across the room. Arctic Monkeys go their own way as usual, and this time their way seems to be a random tangent that somehow really works.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

14
#14 Most Discussed Album of 2018
5
#5 Most Shared Album of 2018

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 32 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 23 out of 32
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 32
  3. Negative: 0 out of 32
  1. Austin Chronicle
    Oct 5, 2018
    100
    The Monkeys' most anti-rock album, Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino proves their most adventurous, pop accessibility be damned.
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  2. PopMatters
    May 24, 2018
    80
    The first listen may be surprising, but repeated listens illuminate that Arctic Monkeys remain progressive and energetic even when style and mood shift dramatically.
    Read full review
  3. Pretty Much Amazing
    May 23, 2018
    58
    Tranquility Base Hotel and Casino is the best possible kind of average record, one that goes out swinging. One that goes for it on every level. A record that, although it isn’t great by any typical metric, is extremely curious and entertaining.
    Read full review
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