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Live review: the Arctic Monkeys
Jay Janner AMERICAN-STATESMAN
Unfortunately, it didn’t occur to the somewhat self-satisfied front man that the problem might have been more with the band than with the audience.
The English quartet took issue with a disengaged audience after three limp performances of songs off this year’s “Humbug,” including a grinding and disappointing version of “Dance Little Liar” and a technically proficient but completely soulless take on first single “Crying Lightning.” The band loosened up somewhat as the set went on, delivering a decent take on ballad “Cornerstone.”
But even on the Monkeys’ most famous song, the inevitable “I Bet That You Look Good On The Dance Floor,” Turner looked miles away. Only drummer Matt Helders, keeping time with an obvious enthusiasm, seemed excited and present, pounding out each note with a clear fervor. It’s too bad the Austin City Limits videographers didn’t linger on him more.
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Permalink | Comments (1) | Categories: ACL 2009: Sunday, ACL Festival 2009
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By stephen
October 5, 2009 12:35 PM | Link to this
I couldn’t disagree more. These guys, along with Them Crooked Vultures, were the highlights of my festival experience. Driving rock, catchy riffs, a highly competent voice, and working class British swagger made this a hell of an experience. Perhaps, according to the review, I saw them on a bad day. If so, then that’s high praise indeed.