Arctic Monkeys w/ Fontaines DC
Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle, WA
09.22.23
On the first day of Fall fans of the British rock band Arctic Monkey’s filled Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle. The excitement in the air was palpable as the band had last played Seattle 5 years earlier. The stage was a mesmerizing sight, transporting me back to the golden era of live music shows. It resembled the set of a 70’s TV show, exuding a nostalgic charm that set the tone for the evening’s performance.
The Arctic Monkeys, masters of their craft, took the stage with an aura of effortless cool. As the audience eagerly awaited their favorite tunes, the atmosphere crackled with anticipation. Lead singer Alex Turner started sining the opening of “Sculputres of Anything Goes”. A slow and gentle opening that lead the way into their second song “Brainstorm” which really got the fans going with the fans rock song!
The opening notes of “Arabella” filled the air, and the crowd erupted into a sea of mesmerizing phone lights, an ethereal sight that made the entire arena glow. But it was the moment when “Perfect Sense” ended that truly stirred souls. Turner’s words reverberated through the air as he said, “That was the last song from our most recent album, and this is the first song from our first record.” The crowd erupted in wild cheers, as they began to play “The View From The Afternoon”
Throughout the concert, a powerful connection emerged between the Arctic Monkeys and their devoted fans. The infectious rhythm of “Fluorescent Adolescent” and “Snap Out of It” had everyone moving, clapping, and singing along. The energy in the room was electric, a testament to the band’s ability to captivate their audience.
The fans genuine cheers, unwavering for each song, evoked a resounding sense of unity. Even during the lesser-known tracks, not a single fan faltered in their support. These Seattle fans were on a mission to make this an unforgettable night, and nothing was going to stop them.
In a symphony of nostalgia, the concert embraced a retro theme that permeated every aspect. From the vintage amps to the classic microphones, even the cameras used to project the band on screens behind the stage felt like relics from another time. It was a visual feast, a merging of past and present that transported us to a different era.
And then came a moment of sheer awe. As the final lyrics of “There’d Better Be a Mirrorball” rang out, a disco ball descended from the ceiling, casting shimmering reflections across the crowd. Its presence remained throughout the ethereal sounds of “505,” enhancing the magic unfolding on stage.
As the captivating notes of “Body Paint” filled the arena, the atmosphere became drenched in nostalgia. The chorus repeated twice, with an extended outro that allowed the melody to linger. Alex Turner blew a tender kiss to the fans before launching into a mesmerizing guitar solo that reverberated to both sides of the arena.
As the band left the stage, the crowd’s yearning for more. And of course, the Arctic Monkeys granted our wishes. Alex Turner emerged for the encore, a mischievous smile playing on his lips. “We’re back,” he declared,”Can you stand a couple more?” The eruption of cheers was deafening, an acknowledgment of the band’s exceeding expectations.
The final two songs, the ones we had all been waiting for. “I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor” and “R U Mine?” resounded through the arena, their infectious energy sweeping through the crowd like a tidal wave.
As the encore came to a close, and the Arctic Monkeys bid their farewell,Turner blew one last kiss to the adoring fans. The poignant moment lingered, an acknowledgment of the connection forged between the band and their loyal followers. It was an evening that would forever be etched in our memories, a testament to the power of music and the ability of the Arctic Monkeys to create an unforgettable experience.
Photos and review by Logan Westom
