Not too bad for a Nightmare

The Arctic Monkeys have done it again. Their 2007 release Favourite Worst Nightmare is out now under the Warner Brothers piggyback label Domino Recording Company. And as much as this is a very much commercial type of slick product, the music on this album does carry a few noteworthy elements-albeit more darkly-tinged ones.

This album seems to take on a more pessimistic tone than their past efforts. There is still the frenetic energy apparent in songs such as the opener Brainstorm, which really packs their pop-rock blend and storytelling lyrics with a punch, though it is definitely a jaded edge this time around. A hard listen is required as there are no lyrics printed up for listeners, and the real "gold" is in the words.

Songs of anguish continue on with the western tinged caravan driving notes of Do Me A Favor. Letting go of something or someone that weighs one down seems to be a recurring theme on this album, and this song divulges that sentiment well. The singing to his abandoned lover--- (she said) "Do me a favor and tell me to go away, do me a favor and stop asking questions."

If You Were There, Beware carries a more complex drumming arrangement throughout, with simple moody guitar accompanying most of the track until the bridge, which simply rocks out. And yes, it is another song on love gone wrong, and the lovesick after-effects we all face as human beings.

The final track 505 is a romantic recount, which opens beautifully and keeps the dreamy guitars and pleasant summertime-like drumbeats complete with tambourine in check. Then, as the Arctic Monkeys typically do, they pick up the pace with the passion, and basically let 'er rip.

Of noteworthiness is the slowest jam-The Only Ones Who Know. Three words describe this song...sweet, sad, and simple. This is where the band goes for the heartstrings. Thought provoking sentimental lyrics ponders the regret and self-pity one may feel in regards to a failed relationship (yet again) this blends well with weepy guitars to nice effect.

This is the sort of album to pick up if the listener is okay with slick studio produced pop-rock music that does not quite break any ground artistically, but instead goes for the gusto in storytelling efforts. This is not a cutting-edge album musically. Instead the edge is in the nakedly honest and real lyrics, coupled with rhythmic and simply orchestrated pop and rock compositions that reflect the inner turmoil of a broken heart.