Arctic Monkeys — Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not

• Artist: Arctic Monkeys
• Title: Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not
• Year: 2006
• Format: CD
• Rating (1-10): 10
• Owner: Mary
• Acquired: May 2006
• Keeper: Yes

Amazon recommended this CD for me, but they also recommended Hilary Duff once. I didn’t buy Hilary’s CD but I did buy the Artic Monkeys and I’m so glad I did.

The tittle of this CD, for me, was reason enough to purchase it.”Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not” is a clue to the band’s attitude and keen observations. The lyrics are brillant. (There are a few explicit lyrics, but the singer’s accent is so thick my kids havn’t noticed them yet). How do people write like that? I’m amazed when song writers can tell a story, to music, (I know that’s obvious, but still impressive) that is witty, smart, down to earth, and makes you want to sing along.

The music is familar, yet not like any band out there. Maybe a little Franz Ferdinand, but tougher. Maybe a little Kaiser Chiefs, but more substantial. They also remind me of Sham 69, and the Ruts. I never get the feeling these guys are trying to be, or sound like something they aren’t.

The track Mardy Bum is what I hear, not often enough, on XM. It’s a slower song and it’s good but the entire CD is packed with great songs: “When the Sun Goes Down”, “Red Light Indicates Doors Are Secured”, and “The View From the Afternoon.” A little something for everyone. Check out their web site to view some videos off this CD at ArcticMonkeys.com.

Salem 66 – A Ripping Spin

• Artist: Salem 66
• Title: A Ripping Spin
• Year: 1985
• Format: Vinyl 12 in.
• Rating (1-10): 5
• Owner: Mary
• Acquired: Probably when she worked at Plan 9 Records in Richmond, VA.

Live from Hampton, VA. — Uh, well, I tried to like this one. Mary says when she saw Salem 66 play live that the band and the music was exciting. “A Ripping Spin” doesn’t seem that exciting now. It’s not that either of us think it’s bad, they do have an interesting sound. It’s just that considering all the records we have we probably won’t play it again.

Camper Van Beethoven – Key Lime Pie

• Artist: Camper Van Beethoven
• Title: Key Lime Pie
• Year: 1989
• Format: Vinyl 12 in.
• Rating (1-10): 6
• Owner: Tracy
• Acquired: 1989 – This was a promo my brother and I got at our record store, RIP Records.
• Keeper: Yes

I like Camper Van, but never really followed them. This album is interesting musically and lyrically, but it just doesn’t get me that excited. I believe it was their major label debut, and their cover of “Pictures of Matchstick Men” was a mild hit on alternative radio.

I think they are back together in some form. Who knows? Click the search links to find out.