Artist: Arctic Monkeys

Wow. Is this the Arctic Monkeys? If it is, they’ve slightly turned their backs on quick witted trademark rock for lounge-pop sonics and Steinway-like influences. And yep it is the Arctic Monkeys – Alex Turner has turned to the piano for some louche, down-tempo beats that reek of cynicism and sarcasm. It’s all a bit meandering, it’s all a bit drudgy, it’s all a bit – geez, is this the Arctic Monkeys?

Turner has definitely taken a Bowie left turn. Single Four out of Five lacks the melody and energy the band is renowned for and the pop melody Golden Trunk swells and rises on an album that is laidback, slightly hip and a severe stylistic change for a band that whips out punk/glam rock with precision-like speed.

It’s hard to put your finger on – but Tranquility Base Hotel may be something that grows on you. It may be that generational alternative album that lasts the test of time. Or, maybe, it won’t be any of those things at all.