Arctic Monkeys: A Different High

Arctic Monkeys
Paramount Theatre, Seattle, WA
08.11.14

The Paramount Theatre shook to life Monday night, as the Arctic Monkeys brought their best game face in preparation for a two-night stint. While a group of young-something’s pleaded with the man at the ticket counter for seats you wouldn’t give to your ex, the line outside the doors grew infinitely longer. The anticipation was palpable.

This English indie rock band made its mark on the music scene from the moment they entered the arena, and their rabid following and monster success has been icing on the cake ever since. The Arctic Monkeys have surpassed records and collected firsts, and are finally looking at the end of a tour that has taken 18 months since the release of their last album, AM. The four man group, led by singer Alex Turner, seemed comfortable amidst the lights and fever high that packed the Paramount. The crowd may as well have been climbing the walls during No. 1 Party Anthem, Fluorescent Adolescent, and Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High?, as heavy fog and strobe lights infiltrated every corner of the dance floor. After a healthy dose of 17 tracks, the audience begged, pounded, and shouted until they were given an encore. Comments of note by Turner include, “Thank you and hello to Seattle… Nice to see you again!”, “Let me comb my hair before I do this, so I can perform”, How’d you feel about the record?” and, “It’s an absolute pleasure to play for you, you’re just a fucking great bunch!” As everyone wiped the sweat from their eyes, one thing was clear: the Arctic Monkeys were here for good reason.

Opening the show tonight was The Districts, a foursome from Pennsylvania currently on tour in the UK and the states. Their alternative, folk jazz, rock and roll style was backed up with energy and enthusiasm, as singer Robby Grote ran a hectic relay on stage. This band is barely out of high school, and at an eye-popping age of 19, they already have a stint at SXSW under their collective belt. The Districts’ music is humble, honest, and hard-earned. And, while they’ve left the Northwest for now, be sure to check them out the next time they roll around.

Set List:
Do I Wanna Know?
Snap Out of It
Arabella
Brianstorm
Don’t Sit Down ‘Cause I’ve Moved Your Chair
Dancing Shoes
Teddy Picker
Crying Lightning
Knee Socks
My Propeller
I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor
Library Pictures
Fireside
No. 1 Party Anthem
Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High?
Fluorescent Adolescent
505