Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not
by Arctic Monkeys
  • Record Label: Domino
  • Release Date: Feb 21, 2006
User Score
8.2

Universal acclaim- based on 907 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 763 out of 907
  2. Mixed: 64 out of 907
  3. Negative: 80 out of 907

Review this album

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. borntoultra
    Dec 21, 2018
    10
    Nunca decepcionam né queridos, foi o primeiro trabalho oficial deles e já entregaram essa obra-prima do indie rock. Mesmo depois de 12 anos nunca fica ruim.
  2. emilyc
    Sep 1, 2019
    10
    amazes me how they managed to be so good at such a young age a fantastic debut
  3. relicofficial
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    One of Arctic Monkeys’ best albums. The amount of nostalgia I have for this album...
  4. Lhorkaven
    Jul 11, 2020
    10
    Rare rock albums in 21st century that's actually good. Hell, it's amazing. Alex Turner's lyrics are genius and the musical style is so unique. Those users who gave it negative rating in 2006 need to be smacked in the face and ears. Look how good they have become.
  5. dante2404
    Aug 20, 2022
    10
    not even AM is this good. this one being a debut album is impeccable. the guitar goes harddddd
  6. blue-intended
    Feb 13, 2023
    10
    Easily one of my favourite records. I think it really manages to capture youth in a way that is unqiue and interesting. The songs are all amazingly written and executed. Absolute classic :)
  7. MaliniR.
    Feb 20, 2006
    9
    After a couple of listens I was hooked. But the only thing that I feel deserves recognition on this album is the lead singer. It's his energy that brings everything together.
  8. JimmyR
    Apr 20, 2006
    9
    very good album, full of catchy tunes. Probably the highlight of the album is the vocals. if your unsure on whether getting this album or not i'd have a listen to "mardy bum" from the album. if you like that you should like the album and vice versa.
  9. Mick
    Jan 27, 2006
    9
    Deserves this score simply for 'I bet you look good on the dancefloor', 'AView from the Afternoon', 'Still Take You Home', and 'Fake Tales of San Fransisco'. I don't think it is the best debut of all time and niether does NME, however, if guitar music is your thing then the Arctic Monkeys are well worth checking out.
  10. [Anonymous]
    Jan 27, 2006
    9
    Those that say the Arctic Monkeys are simply and overhyped band need to remember this point, the hype surrounding this album come from the fact that most people have had access to the songs on this album for months now, as well as a handful of other great tunes. The Arctic Monkeys hype is, not hype based on nothing it's hype based on great tunes and amazing live performances.
  11. GiacomoP
    Jan 29, 2006
    9
    Very powerful!
  12. MattB
    Jan 30, 2006
    9
    Hype or not - both the album and the preceding bootleg (widely available online) were great. I also saw them play live last year and they were awesome. This album consists of great tunes and I will eat my hat if it doesn't end up on the critics' 2006 yearlists in december.
  13. JJHoldijk
    Feb 22, 2006
    9
    This album is the definition of rock music in 2006. Not life changing, but it'll definitely push a lot of people's button. The youthfull excitement which this album is loaded with will even cause a 40-year old man living in his parents' basement to tap his feet and shake his head. Lyrics are jsut amazing, especially the way Turner spits them out at some points. Tall black This album is the definition of rock music in 2006. Not life changing, but it'll definitely push a lot of people's button. The youthfull excitement which this album is loaded with will even cause a 40-year old man living in his parents' basement to tap his feet and shake his head. Lyrics are jsut amazing, especially the way Turner spits them out at some points. Tall black men with a certain amount of bullets in their body could learn from this. To the people who think this sounds like everything else or just don't get it: just don't bother, if you dont get it now, you'll probably never get it.… Expand
  14. GarethM
    Feb 25, 2006
    9
    This is proof that Americans just don't "get" british culture, the fact is we have the greatest music scene in the world and Arctic Monkeys top it off. Forget the hype, listen to the music. What Alex Turner and his band have managed to do is make songs that tell you more about true british culture than anything else. Creative people who come from the North will always get a backlash This is proof that Americans just don't "get" british culture, the fact is we have the greatest music scene in the world and Arctic Monkeys top it off. Forget the hype, listen to the music. What Alex Turner and his band have managed to do is make songs that tell you more about true british culture than anything else. Creative people who come from the North will always get a backlash of biterness for being intelligent but that just goes with our territory. The reason the monkeys are so popular is that they are anything but pretentious, with simple catchy tunes but punctuated with clever lyrics that capture the current culture, oh, and the vocals are fantastic. Listen to "From The Ritz to the Rubble" or "A Certain Romance", The Arctic Monkeys ARE England, take it or leave it.… Expand
  15. JoeH
    Feb 27, 2006
    9
    Upon first hearing the album i did not realise how great it actually is, this album definitely grows on you and then infects you with its catchy riffs and very clever and humerous lyrics. For an album full of high points the pinnacle for me is When the Sun goes down. The only song which lets the album down is Riot Van, But this fails to change my opinion that The Arctic Monkeys are the Upon first hearing the album i did not realise how great it actually is, this album definitely grows on you and then infects you with its catchy riffs and very clever and humerous lyrics. For an album full of high points the pinnacle for me is When the Sun goes down. The only song which lets the album down is Riot Van, But this fails to change my opinion that The Arctic Monkeys are the best new band around!… Expand
  16. mikep
    Feb 5, 2006
    9
    Original lyrics and excellent delivery help to make what would sound like quite a normal album into a great one. Not quite as great as the 'hype', but then what is. That said, does have some cracking tunes that will be filling indie dancefloors for years. Filling stadiums will be trickier, but that's their charm. Whether they will be able to cross over the countries that Original lyrics and excellent delivery help to make what would sound like quite a normal album into a great one. Not quite as great as the 'hype', but then what is. That said, does have some cracking tunes that will be filling indie dancefloors for years. Filling stadiums will be trickier, but that's their charm. Whether they will be able to cross over the countries that dont undertand the phrase 'mardy bum' remains to be seen!… Expand
  17. jordand
    Feb 7, 2006
    9
    Great sound. Fun and upbeat. Great album.
  18. barryq
    Mar 1, 2006
    9
    Buy it. Listen to it a few times. You will love it. It can be a bit spotty but the good bits are fantastic.
  19. tylerl
    Mar 15, 2006
    9
    Say what you want about the English hype, just make shure to buy, listen to, and crank these lads to Eleven!!
  20. AlexC
    Mar 2, 2006
    9
    How anyone can give this less than a 7 is beyond me, and to the person that said 1)it was suited to imprssionable teenagers or 2)dads tring to be hip, you are probably the latter of the 2 buddy but prefer the osmonds or the carpenters. Quite simply outstanding for 19/20 year olds...... one for the yanks as much as the brits, turn it up loud!!!
  21. DanB
    Mar 8, 2006
    9
    Excellent debut album here. Extremely creative lyrics and melodies. Very catchy. Overall it's fun to listen to. Don't listen to the idiots who are saying it's no good. Those people are just saying that stuff because they think that they won't be "cool" if they listen to something that other people are listening to. The reason there is so much hype around these guys is Excellent debut album here. Extremely creative lyrics and melodies. Very catchy. Overall it's fun to listen to. Don't listen to the idiots who are saying it's no good. Those people are just saying that stuff because they think that they won't be "cool" if they listen to something that other people are listening to. The reason there is so much hype around these guys is because they have made a genuinely great album.… Expand
  22. FredericoM
    Apr 4, 2006
    9
    Great album all around.
  23. RobbH
    May 8, 2006
    9
    Although many have turned away from it due to "overhype", the Arctic Monkeys have put together the best dance rock album since "Silent Alarm"
  24. AC
    Apr 24, 2007
    9
    This was the best album I heard in all of 2006. Whoever said they're trying to sound like Oasis needs they're head read. The lyrics are just brilliant!
  25. Kris
    Jan 27, 2006
    9
    This is truly a remarkable album. "Soon it'll be cool to hate the Arctic Monkeys" Alex Turner said in an interview, and to judge by some reviews, this is true. It's like they're being punished for NME's enthusiasm about the band. Arcitc Monkyes reviews often turn into an NME-frenzy, which is a pity, as this album is worth much more than e.g. the Stylus and Playlouder This is truly a remarkable album. "Soon it'll be cool to hate the Arctic Monkeys" Alex Turner said in an interview, and to judge by some reviews, this is true. It's like they're being punished for NME's enthusiasm about the band. Arcitc Monkyes reviews often turn into an NME-frenzy, which is a pity, as this album is worth much more than e.g. the Stylus and Playlouder reviews. Let's have some reviews about the Arctic Monkeys, please! Not about the hype.… Expand
  26. MachuzzlewitSweedlepipe
    Jan 28, 2006
    9
    Yes, they sound like a school band, but they sound like the best school band you'll ever hear. Grin inducing tunes, sharp, unpretentious lyrics. A rare case of the hype being true.
  27. David
    Feb 12, 2006
    9
    Very good debut album...At last a young band bridges the gap between good old Rock and Roll and Hip Hop.A change had to come and there it is!!!
  28. pAULG
    Feb 21, 2006
    9
    This is proper reet gudd. Imagine a Yorkshire version of Mike Skinner playing guitar like Franz Ferdinand. Not life changing, but bloody good!
  29. NickJ
    Feb 22, 2006
    9
    The other users on this site don't know anything about rock... this is a great, energetic debut that gets better the more you listen to it. Fans of the Smiths and The Clash will love it. Although these guys don't need any more support, show the U.K. that all American aren't void of taste.
  30. Chris
    Feb 23, 2006
    9
    Fuckin' great rock'n'roll record!!
  31. david
    Feb 6, 2006
    9
    excellent guitar, catchy lyrics that relate to their audience and highly upbeat. great 1st album, but new oasis? if theyre stil around hitting number1 spot in 10years then i would agree, until then just credit them for a well rounded album.
  32. AndyG
    Apr 6, 2006
    9
    Genius. F****ing love it. The little Yorkshire b*stards.
  33. AshL
    Apr 9, 2006
    9
    Believe the hype !
  34. Luis
    May 29, 2006
    9
    Awesome music & lyrics...so fresh
  35. BjørnB
    May 4, 2006
    9
    This is an excellent release. I'm honestly most curious as to what Mr. Prude and Williams is going at when they use the words "shit" and "bad" in an Arctic Monkeys review, but I guess I shouldn't be judging them like this. Back on topic though, Arctic Monkeys really has that kick-ass sound I've been longing for for months now. It's hype is well deserved. Their catchy This is an excellent release. I'm honestly most curious as to what Mr. Prude and Williams is going at when they use the words "shit" and "bad" in an Arctic Monkeys review, but I guess I shouldn't be judging them like this. Back on topic though, Arctic Monkeys really has that kick-ass sound I've been longing for for months now. It's hype is well deserved. Their catchy songs will have you jumping around your apartment screaming "oh, you don't know nothing!" My least favourite track has got to be Fake Tales of San Francisco, I quite honestly don't know what gets to me about it, and I will love it when im screaming it's lyrics half-drunk at Roskilde in denmark this summer, but it just isn't as... It's probably just a personal matter. Buy this CD!!!… Expand
  36. Tommy
    Apr 16, 2007
    9
    Not the greatest band since the Beatles, true, but they still got one hell of an album here! Situation's a little different where I am though.. Even now, one year after it came out, AM are (almost) never played on swedish radio. Whats positive is that with no hype-backlash, I can just sit back enjoy the killer songs instead!
  37. KateB.
    Sep 20, 2007
    9
    An extremely good album indeed. I can see how his voice makes all the songs similar, but I also love the infectious melodies and witty lyrics. I also think it could wear thin very quickly though through more albums, and already has.
  38. PedroL
    Jan 26, 2006
    9
    Well... yes, they are really hyped by british media, but their record is still great. On 2005 we had Bloc Party and Hard-Fi as fantastic new bands (maybe Kaiser Chiefs also), now you can add Arctic Monkeys to that list.
  39. DavidGeorgeBarnyard
    Feb 16, 2006
    9
    I have only heard two songs and I am very impressed. I hear the Clash and Hot Hot Heat, some minimalized Strokes (which is good in this case), yet it's an original signature. I'd like to know from those that give this band low scores who they find exceptional. I'd like to know if we can trust such plummeted ratings. C'mon, boys and girls. Put it all out there. I have only heard two songs and I am very impressed. I hear the Clash and Hot Hot Heat, some minimalized Strokes (which is good in this case), yet it's an original signature. I'd like to know from those that give this band low scores who they find exceptional. I'd like to know if we can trust such plummeted ratings. C'mon, boys and girls. Put it all out there. Let's get philosophomoric.… Expand
  40. gregh
    Feb 16, 2006
    9
    simply amazing. an impeccable debut album. lets just hope they don't pull an Oasis and fall short on us in the long run...
  41. AdamF
    Feb 17, 2006
    9
    This is the album I always wanted to hear from many of the UK bands. Futureheads' energy, Bloc Party's riffs and Oasis' lyrics mixed into one.
  42. PeterM
    Feb 21, 2006
    9
    they roxxor almost as much as CYHSY
  43. DSchultz
    Feb 21, 2006
    9
    Far superior and more enjoyable than Franz Ferdinand...this is an album that deserves to be the best selling UK album. They have an amazing amount of talent and energy...and for being so young, one can only hope that this debut isn't the peak of their creative talent.
  44. adamw
    Feb 24, 2006
    9
    Brilliant, energetic and engaging album. Love the opener and a certain romance. Hard to find a poor track.
  45. JoshuaMc
    Feb 27, 2006
    9
    It's funny when a really good album gets hated on for getting too much hype. The same thing happened to Clap Your Hands, and its really a shame because that was a great album. So is this, most listeners will have a hard time not enjoying the inventive lyrics and catchy tunes. Definetly worth a listen, if nothing else.
  46. MartyM
    Mar 16, 2006
    9
    I have no idea why I love this CD. There is nothing new about the music nor are the lyrics in any way profound. But the thing is just compulsively listenable (not to mention dance-in-your- underwearable). Every track just reeks of good times.
  47. ChubbyD
    Apr 21, 2006
    9
    As an old man who remembers the Buzzcocks and Undertones fondly, this was a wonderful blast of smoky air.
  48. Ethan
    Jul 29, 2006
    9
    This cd is awesome nothig more.
  49. Rev.Rikard
    Aug 13, 2006
    9
    This is just great kickin rock and roll. The album reminds me of Grand Funk Railroad (at GFRs best). The driving bass and rythm section accompaned by guitar work that is intense. This album will not allow you to relax. It has the power to shake us out of complacency and awaken the ear to a sound long missed.
  50. RachelL.
    Jun 23, 2007
    9
    This album is amazing Alex Turner's unique voice and clever lyrics combined with catchy hooks and melodies make for a fantastic album.
  51. Rosco
    Mar 22, 2011
    9
    This is one of the greatest albums of modern times! The fact that this is the fastest selling debut album in British history tells you everything. Alex Turner is just a genius with his lyrics. For a debut album the quality of each is song is outstanding. The standout singles from the album are When The Sun Goes Down, a real anthem and catchy as hell, I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor,This is one of the greatest albums of modern times! The fact that this is the fastest selling debut album in British history tells you everything. Alex Turner is just a genius with his lyrics. For a debut album the quality of each is song is outstanding. The standout singles from the album are When The Sun Goes Down, a real anthem and catchy as hell, I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor, features some terrific riffs and Matt Helders on the drums owns this track. The View From The Afternoon is another great track, Fake Tales of San Francisco is an under rated track. From the Ritz To Rubble is a nice alternative on the album and the incredible Dancing Shoes is short and sweet. A more softer sound is showing in the awesome Mardy Bum and particularly A Certain Romance. Still remains one of the greatest debut albums ever.… Expand
  52. Watermelon789
    Aug 23, 2011
    9
    I most say the Monkeys are a hard version of The Strokes far ahead stronger musical scores and a superior lyric. If you're into the inde/alternative genre or simply love The Strokes ( or anything related to them) try to see if they fit you. Because really, I think you will like them.
  53. alexwrands
    May 31, 2011
    9
    What a fantastic album. Arctic Monkeys have a real talent. They combine great indie rock with far from subtle, yet genius lyrics by front man Alex Turner. Tunes such as "When the Sun Goes Down" and "I Bet That You Look Good on the Dance Floor" are my favourite, but I think the majority of the tracks on this album are very well worked to make a great album
  54. Pep_D
    Dec 10, 2011
    9
    Very nice, upbeat album with many catchy song. "Riot Van" provides a breather in all of the loud songs. One of the rare moments when the band is as good as the hype. Except for the song "Perhaps Vampires is a Bit Strong But.." That's a bad song.
  55. Ricko
    Nov 23, 2017
    9
    One of the great British rock records of the 00's and an amazing debut album considering how young the band were when this came out. The Arctic Monkeys came along out of relatively nowhere with their own unique style and blew the competition of the time out of the water (does anyone even remember the likes of Maximo Park/The Futureheads). The opening and closing tracks are epic. SandwichedOne of the great British rock records of the 00's and an amazing debut album considering how young the band were when this came out. The Arctic Monkeys came along out of relatively nowhere with their own unique style and blew the competition of the time out of the water (does anyone even remember the likes of Maximo Park/The Futureheads). The opening and closing tracks are epic. Sandwiched in between is the tale of a night out in Sheffield told through some of the catchiest melodies and cleverest lyrics to come out of that city since Pulp. This was so good that at the time it came out I wondered were they the real deal or in fact a cleverly manufactured record company trick. Far from it and Alex Turner and co have gone on to prove their greatness multiple times since. It still sounds great a decade on and I have no doubt this will still be regarded as a classic for decades to come.… Expand
  56. axelkoch
    Aug 7, 2012
    9
    This debut album from the British Indie Rock band is really good, like it's seldomly seen for debut albums. Rough garage rock with this specially voice (meant in a good way!) from Alex Turner. 'Riot Van' tells a interesting story with smooth guitar sounds in the back. 'Mardy Bum' gives us one great chorus and a really great guitar solo like you don't see it anywhere nowadays. The firstThis debut album from the British Indie Rock band is really good, like it's seldomly seen for debut albums. Rough garage rock with this specially voice (meant in a good way!) from Alex Turner. 'Riot Van' tells a interesting story with smooth guitar sounds in the back. 'Mardy Bum' gives us one great chorus and a really great guitar solo like you don't see it anywhere nowadays. The first three songs are cool start for the disc; the last three songs are a cool ending for it. Between this are also good songs - some better, some less.… Expand
  57. jotaeseche
    Jan 3, 2015
    9
    This debut album must have been a great surprise and achievement back in 2006: a young band with a new yet known rocky sound, very powerful and fearless, with a bunch of great songs and a rebel spirit. And it may turn into a modern classic also. Though their slower songs are not as good, this a great and enjoyable work of art that will certainly be positioned in several Best Of... lists inThis debut album must have been a great surprise and achievement back in 2006: a young band with a new yet known rocky sound, very powerful and fearless, with a bunch of great songs and a rebel spirit. And it may turn into a modern classic also. Though their slower songs are not as good, this a great and enjoyable work of art that will certainly be positioned in several Best Of... lists in the near future.… Expand
  58. chris_g95
    Nov 17, 2014
    9
    A brilliant debut album which shows that there is still hope for good old British Rock 'n' Roll.
    Best Tracks : Fake Tales of San Francisco, When the Sun Goes Down, A Certain Romance
    Worst Track : Perhaps Vampire is a Bit Strong But...
  59. RETDAV4
    May 21, 2021
    9
    In my opinion, a great debut, i pretty much like all the songs in the album and i do think they are where they should, when they should.
  60. Aboodash56
    Aug 14, 2021
    9
    Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not is not only a great introduction to the Arctic Monkeys, it's without a doubt one of the greatest debut albums ever. Featuring post-punk revival, indie rock and punk rock as the main musical styles of the album, the band do a terrific job in keeping the listener hooked from start to finish while tackling the subjects of the London nightlife,Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not is not only a great introduction to the Arctic Monkeys, it's without a doubt one of the greatest debut albums ever. Featuring post-punk revival, indie rock and punk rock as the main musical styles of the album, the band do a terrific job in keeping the listener hooked from start to finish while tackling the subjects of the London nightlife, such as clubbing, drinking and romance. The incredible guitar riffs, the brilliant bass line and Alex Turner's introspective songwriting manage to get the listener into the album's mood. Every single song feels like a banger, from the fast-paced single I Bet You Look Good on The Dance Floor to the slower ballad Riot Van. While there are a couple of weak tracks, none of the detract from the experience and this album still remains a classic debut album. This album needs to be listened to more than once and I highly recommend it to any music lover.… Expand
  61. ING45
    Apr 16, 2023
    9
    Outstanding debut album from one of the best bands of the century with blood pumping tracks that are the embodiment of punk rock chaos.
  62. Alex
    Feb 6, 2006
    8
    There's no way this CD could live up to the hype being generated. But that doesn't mean it's not a good record. (It's at least /very/ good.) And the more I listen to it, the more I like it. The sound is just different enough from Franz Ferdinand and their ilk to make it refreshing. And you've got to love those accents.
  63. snilsen
    Apr 5, 2006
    8
    This is not just a good record, it's really quite good, and if it had any real originality to it I'd score it higher. Basically, to me it sounds like an amalgam of current trends: Franz Ferdinand, The Strokes and White Stripes. Roll it all together and add in some Built to Spill riffing, i.e. control and quality is solid, that';s what you've got. Lyrics are pretty This is not just a good record, it's really quite good, and if it had any real originality to it I'd score it higher. Basically, to me it sounds like an amalgam of current trends: Franz Ferdinand, The Strokes and White Stripes. Roll it all together and add in some Built to Spill riffing, i.e. control and quality is solid, that';s what you've got. Lyrics are pretty decent, if not good. Most importantly, there's sarcasm or awareness in the band's delivery, with the closer being an over rip off of a Strokes tune that they riupped off from something more obscure. Talant doing what's cool and doing it well. The album is pretty much 100%. If you liked Radio 4 - Gothem, you should like this too.… Expand
  64. Andy
    Jan 30, 2006
    8
    Goes a bit awry in the middle but likely to be up there come the envitable Albums of the Year listings. Great upbeat tunes abound with only Riot Van slowing things down somewhat. Red Lights Indicates Doors are Secured drives along at a fantastic rate and is simply about the problems in trying to get into a taxi late at night.
  65. madsl
    Jan 30, 2006
    8
    All the massive hype will probably spurn their initial downfall..but for now this is a refreshing and vital album that sits comfortably along other great British artists of the last three decades. The song about vampires, though, is really dreadful crap. Mardy Bum and The ritz to the rubble is top of the class and future classics in indiedom.
  66. reeset
    Feb 1, 2006
    8
    brilliant!
  67. ClaytonC
    May 5, 2006
    8
    A BritPop classic... worth all the hype!
  68. jamesh
    Jan 30, 2006
    8
    a great observation into working class england but really just a result of the libertines genius
  69. ArkiM
    Feb 15, 2006
    8
    Although their debut is very good it does not push up to the levels that The Strokes entered when they introduced the genre.
  70. MattE
    Feb 21, 2006
    8
    Good album well worth a listen just for the lyrics which in some places are inspired. Not particularly groundbreaking music but good nonetheless
  71. andrewt
    Feb 23, 2006
    8
    Always a good sign of a good new album - strongly divergent views - a very strong album - imperfect buit then again, Never Mind the Bollocks was not a perfect album - I think it has balls - This is a modern punk band and it ain't meant to be pretty....
  72. TheRealAlfonsoDeBong
    Feb 28, 2006
    8
    Yeah I didnt want to believe the hype either, but this one will get under your skin. Good raucous rock and roll with catchy lyrics - hardly thought provoking but hey you can't always get watcha waaant... I give them two albums...then BOOM! But in the meantime they are out there - go see them.
  73. MaxM
    Feb 3, 2006
    8
    Tom B.. (see above)... wrote that this was pumped up by a relentless British music press... (he's wrong) ...the real story here is that some talented, cocky, guys wrote songs that make you think of the Jam... and the Streets... and put the tracks online (free) where they got passed around (I got them early last year) like old fashioned mix tapes until the buzz burst out with 360,000 Tom B.. (see above)... wrote that this was pumped up by a relentless British music press... (he's wrong) ...the real story here is that some talented, cocky, guys wrote songs that make you think of the Jam... and the Streets... and put the tracks online (free) where they got passed around (I got them early last year) like old fashioned mix tapes until the buzz burst out with 360,000 people buying a copy in a week... was at their gig last night and the great thing is that they can still improve (!) but boy the atmosphere was electric... amazing... why do people who can't perform, sing, write consider it necessary to so flippantly damin those, at 19 (!) who can? It's like the Razorfish song "Golden Touch", that they mind because they can never do the things that you can I do so well.… Expand
  74. ChrisB
    Feb 9, 2006
    8
    Not as good as the Brits are saying it is but not as bad as the Americans are saying it is.
  75. JasonR
    Mar 10, 2006
    8
    Best record of it's type since "Up the Bracket". In response to the "don't let NME tell you what to think" rhetoric... Sure it's a whopping bucket of hype, but if this record deserves a 1, I'd like to know what you'd rate higher. Are you seriously saying that 90% of the music being released is be better than this. How about you think for yourself... Ignore the Best record of it's type since "Up the Bracket". In response to the "don't let NME tell you what to think" rhetoric... Sure it's a whopping bucket of hype, but if this record deserves a 1, I'd like to know what you'd rate higher. Are you seriously saying that 90% of the music being released is be better than this. How about you think for yourself... Ignore the hype and stop hangin with the holier than thou "backlash" kids. Don't believe the hype, but definately don't believe the backlash.… Expand
  76. Rumpy05
    Mar 17, 2006
    8
    A very promising debut album. I for one cannot understand the backlash against this record. Yes, we all know that it had been hyped beyond all reason, but lets not forget this a a great effort. The saviour of british music?...no not really but why do we need a saviour? lets just enjoy what is one of better albums of the last ten years
  77. MaxF
    Mar 9, 2006
    8
    You know what's worse than hype? The pretentious anti-mainsteam hordes who denounce any product getting massive critical acclaim. For if they were to admit that the hype was real, then that would affect their individualism. I am around music (popular and underground) nearly every waking moment of my life and consider myself very well versed in every genre. I usually don't post You know what's worse than hype? The pretentious anti-mainsteam hordes who denounce any product getting massive critical acclaim. For if they were to admit that the hype was real, then that would affect their individualism. I am around music (popular and underground) nearly every waking moment of my life and consider myself very well versed in every genre. I usually don't post ratings or discuss art on a message board because art/music means different things to different appreciators. However, any poster giving this album a zero or a 10 needs to check themselves. Save your scores below 5 for those that deserve it (Hillary Duff, Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys) and save your 10's and 9's for thos albums that change the landscape of popular music (Nevermind, London Calling, The Joshua Tree) This album might not be perfect, but it's a nice departure from the Shinedown's, Godsmacks, Seether's, Pop-Punk's and disposable teen acts of today's musical landscape. I haven't taken it out of my CD player for a week. It is truly an exceptional album. Anyone comparing it to Oasis should get their heads out of their a**es, it sounds nothing like it (unless anything british is Oasis). In fact, judge it on it's own merit. I don't recognize any rip off, just awesome riffs and great punkish sensibility. For God's sake...they're not JET. Don't get overrun by the hype either way, but definately buy this album. So far the best of 2006.… Expand
  78. DLa
    Apr 13, 2006
    8
    it's pretty enjoyable beyond the ever-so-popular "i bet you look good on the dancefloor". they deserve more respect from music critics as they follow the tradition of grungy britt bands with catchy tunes. good record.
  79. Mr.E
    Apr 4, 2006
    8
    Firstly, let me state I don't usually write reponses to what other people have said but, Frasier Crane wound me up a little. Since the 1990's many bands have been producing excellent music. Radiohead, RHCP, Muse, The Streets, Antony & the Johnsons, Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, Franz Ferdinand, Eminem, Fat Boy Slim, The Prodigy, Bjork, Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, Bloc Party, The Firstly, let me state I don't usually write reponses to what other people have said but, Frasier Crane wound me up a little. Since the 1990's many bands have been producing excellent music. Radiohead, RHCP, Muse, The Streets, Antony & the Johnsons, Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, Franz Ferdinand, Eminem, Fat Boy Slim, The Prodigy, Bjork, Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, Bloc Party, The White Stripes, QOSA, Daft Punk, Modest Mouse, the Arcade Fire, Kate Bush, and Regina Spektor. So Frasier Crane if you think new modern bands sound the same stop listening to NME and turn on to BBC Radio 2. As for the Monkeys album let the people decide if its a classic, I enjoyed it and who says an album needs to be varied to be a classic, after all The Sex Pistols debut is considered a classic.… Expand
  80. TheCritic
    Jul 17, 2006
    8
    While it is overrated, the Monkeys are really not as bad as some people say they are. Even though the album is not consistent and it falls short halfway through, the Monkeys show here that they are definately going to mature and they do have potential and talent. The best tracks are "Mardy Bum" "A View From the Afternoon" and the ever-so-popular single "I bet You Look Good on the While it is overrated, the Monkeys are really not as bad as some people say they are. Even though the album is not consistent and it falls short halfway through, the Monkeys show here that they are definately going to mature and they do have potential and talent. The best tracks are "Mardy Bum" "A View From the Afternoon" and the ever-so-popular single "I bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor." Another thing... if anybody saw Saturday Night Live with the Arctic Monkeys on it, who agrees with me that they sped the "Dancefloor" song up double the speed on the album. Am I right?… Expand
  81. RyanJ.
    Aug 7, 2007
    8
    Firstly, anyone who gave this album a ten is a moron. In no way is it perfect. Secondly, anybody who gave it a zero is a bigger moron. You think this of all albums is the worst ever and more importantly you think this is worse than K-Fed? Lastly, this is good album which has several catchy tunes and a lot of raw energy. It deserves 8 to 9 out of 10 but I went with 8 because after several Firstly, anyone who gave this album a ten is a moron. In no way is it perfect. Secondly, anybody who gave it a zero is a bigger moron. You think this of all albums is the worst ever and more importantly you think this is worse than K-Fed? Lastly, this is good album which has several catchy tunes and a lot of raw energy. It deserves 8 to 9 out of 10 but I went with 8 because after several listens the songs start to get annoying.… Expand
  82. mattg
    Jan 29, 2006
    8
    the arctic monkeys have produced a superb album but to say they are on par with oasis is a little premature! out of all the tunes 1 or 2 let it down but overall superb!
  83. GavinC
    Feb 1, 2006
    8
    I like it, and am pretty impressed at how much they seem to have polarised people, there are just as many scathing reviews as their are glowing ones on here.
  84. joeP
    Feb 20, 2006
    8
    decent, not spectacular
  85. Joris
    Feb 22, 2006
    8
    FROM THE RITZ TO THE RUBBLE is for me the obvious Killertrack, simply amazing... but overall a good album and a very good debut, though very overhyped too... cmon better than Definitely Maybe??? I guess not! Apart from latter mentioned song, other favourites are I Bet you Look Good on the Dancefloor, Fake Tales of San Fransisco; Perhaps Vampires..., the solo in Dancing Shoes and the FROM THE RITZ TO THE RUBBLE is for me the obvious Killertrack, simply amazing... but overall a good album and a very good debut, though very overhyped too... cmon better than Definitely Maybe??? I guess not! Apart from latter mentioned song, other favourites are I Bet you Look Good on the Dancefloor, Fake Tales of San Fransisco; Perhaps Vampires..., the solo in Dancing Shoes and the haunting Riot Van... a well deserved 8, nothing less but nothing more… Expand
  86. ProfionQuest
    Feb 28, 2006
    8
    I just keep playing this cd in my cd-player... I guess it must be good, yes?
  87. TravisS
    Feb 6, 2006
    8
    What kind of music do you like Rob R? I'm willing to bet that it's supremely gay. Bloc party and Arctic Monkeys are both really good bands. Anyway, this album solid throughout and doesn't disappoint. Worth the money.
  88. DT
    Apr 29, 2006
    8
    Not the ground breaking world beater it's hyped up to be, but it is a good Album with 5 or 6 strong tracks & a couple of poor ones.
  89. House
    May 22, 2006
    8
    What would you get if Ray Davies had joined the Clash...Artic Monkeys? There EPs were smart and sharp and this, there first full length record is even better. Can't wait for their Sophmore effort. This one rocks and surprises and makes you laugh all the way through.
  90. ArcticMonkey
    Jan 26, 2006
    8
    Wicked cool album, these yougens have got some thing that can be huge!!
  91. DanP
    Mar 13, 2006
    8
    So, they're not the greatest band ever. But they're definately not in even the bottom 75%. The album's opening is a weak "View From the Afternoon" which has one almost worthwhile line of "Anticipation has a habit to set you up/for dissapointment" (basically suming up everyone who gave this album a rating of 2 or less). It follows with the now famous "I Bet You Look So, they're not the greatest band ever. But they're definately not in even the bottom 75%. The album's opening is a weak "View From the Afternoon" which has one almost worthwhile line of "Anticipation has a habit to set you up/for dissapointment" (basically suming up everyone who gave this album a rating of 2 or less). It follows with the now famous "I Bet You Look Good...", which is, while still very good, not quite worthy of all the hype it has been getting. The album carries itself very well for the next 7 songs (highlights include "You Probably Couldn't See the Lights...", "Red Light Indicates...", and "Mardy Bum") before falling flat on its face with "Perhaps Vampires Is A Bit Strong But...". Hands down, this is the worst song on the album. It also steals the thunder from the great "When the Sun Goes Down". "From the Ritz to the Rubble" is decent, but the closing, "A Certain Romance" is another great song. You can see that the Arctic Monkeys are onto something, but the style has been done better. Also, I wouldn't hesitate to give this a 9 if only "Perhaps Vampires Is A Bit Strong But..." wasn't horrendous. Top 3 (no particular order): "When the Sun Goes Down" "Mardy Bum" "A Certain Romance"… Expand
  92. EzraM
    Apr 17, 2006
    8
    I guess you can see the jackasses here... In any case, it's a great drinking album, well made, with good spirit. Not great, but you remember the Royal Tenenbaums...
  93. StephenS
    Apr 21, 2006
    8
    Well played catchy tunes. Nothing deep, but loads of fun. Would have fit nicely at one of my spring-time college keg parties. Cue this CD up for infectious good times!
  94. DudeGuy
    Apr 23, 2007
    8
    Amazing stuff Buy and enjoy and no they're not Franz Ferdinand (they suck!) they're much better screw hype! can't wait for the new album
  95. j30
    Sep 22, 2011
    8
    Stellar debut album by the kids from Sheffield and happens to be one of the best records of the past decade.
  96. usherd369
    Feb 26, 2014
    8
    Absolute, sheer rock-and-roll fun from start to finish, but Turner was right in stating 'don't believe the hype' as this album is only the aforementioned definition. They're not here to save the world; they're here to have a good time, and that's okay.
  97. MusicPro
    Jan 2, 2015
    8
    A fun, cool rock album by Arctic Monkeys. At this time they were very young.

    I think it's a fun album. I've liked it.

    FAV TRACKS:

    - The view From the Afternoon
    - I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor
    - Riot Van
  98. j444cks
    Mar 2, 2023
    8
    Packed with great songs! Perhaps one of the best debuts ever. Fake Tales of San Francisco is a highlight
  99. MartinJ
    Feb 6, 2006
    7
    Not bad. But why some people can't stop acting rashly?
  100. JMcCartha
    Mar 6, 2006
    7
    May be the best at what they do, the personal factor is whether or not you care about what they do.
Page:

Awards & Rankings

34
#34 Best Album of 2006
2
#2 Most Discussed Album of 2006
12
#12 Most Shared Album of 2006

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
82

Universal acclaim - based on 33 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 27 out of 33
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 33
  3. Negative: 0 out of 33
  1. BBC collective
    90
    It’s exciting stuff, simple yet deadly effective.
    Read full review
  2. Dot Music
    90
    Such is the depth and quality of Turner's songwriting, it plays like a best of.
    Read full review
  3. musicOMH.com
    90
    It's not a totally perfect record, for which we should be thankful - remember what happened to The Stone Roses after they'd released their flawless debut? - but it is an excellent first album, and gives notice that Alex Turner is already one of this country's best lyricists.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »