7/10

Since the days of 'I Bet You Look Good On The Dance Floor', it is fair to say that Arctic Monkeys have evolved into a variety of different guises over the years. But after a mildly lacklustre period in the middle of their career, their fifth 'A.M.' saw them return with not only a new sound but one that we could all get behind. But five years later, the band have moved themselves on once again and deliver possibly their most divisive album to date.

It was said that frontman Alex Turner began to play the piano again during their period of rest, which certainly seems clear when you realise who much of this new album is led by keys. But while much of their catalogue has been a mixture of swinging guitar-riffs and thunderous drums, this new lo-fi sound sees them as a more subdued outfit, exploring a whole new spectrum of ideas as they obviously seek a full separation from their early days and mature into the next phase of their career.

It seems like the band have entered their David Bowie stage. Gone are the days of Ziggy Stardust and 'Brianstorm', and now we need to see them as a whole new band with a totally separate identity. No doubt that this will divide their extremely loyal fanbase, but at this point in their careers, they can afford to take bold chances like this.