Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not
by Arctic Monkeys

From HoldenM 04/10/2026 02:47 | #313839

Much better after some time away. Good stuff.

This album hit like train back in early 2006! Still kicks

85.1

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Bland, derivative dance-rock with an admittedly infectious energy, but not much else. The post-punk and garage-rock revival groups of the 2000s were frequently just watered-down aestheticized charicatures of their post-punk influences--and while certain groups transcended the trend by infusing these influences with their own unique sound (The Strokes, Interpol, White Stripes), others like the Arctic Monkeys saw fit to simply imitate some glossy radio-ready amalgamation of ALL 70s and 80s alternative rock/post-punk, to the point that it has lost all character.
There is nothing I get out of this album that I can't find a LESS watered-down version of elsewhere. Sassy and/or verbose British vocalist? The Fall, The Smiths. Punchy, jerky guitars? Gang of Four, Mission of Burma, Devo. Dance-y drumbeats? 80s R.E.M., Talking Heads.
I don't hate this album. It's listenable enough, just supremely overrated (particularly on this site), derivative to a fault, and devoid of character.

An energetic debut that captivates the listener pretty much as soon as they put it on. The passion present on here is extremely impressive with every song being infectious and accessible to pretty much anyone. This is primarily due to the hooks and the choruses which are simply fantastic. The best example is the obvious huge hit that is I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor. There is a lot more to this album than this song however with the likes of Dancing Shoes and The View From The Afternoon always managing to capture my interest. The record is overflowing with charm and character which is what makes it so lovable and has caused millions of people to become completely obsessed with this group and it is not difficult to see why. Overall, one of the most energetic and relatable debuts that has loads of memorable moments to keep you coming back time and time again.

Arctic Monkeys hace su debut con este album lleno de energía, la forma en que se complementan las 2 guitarras, la fuerza y el ímpetu de Matt Helders en la batería, así como la voz de Alex Turner, hacen de "Whatever people say i am that's what i'm not" un emblema del Indie rock. Su sonido "Garage Rock" me hace sentir mas joven.
Todas las canciones, aquí, son buenas pero solo por destacar algunas; "A certain romance", "Mardy Bum" y "when the sun goes down".

English review:
Arctic Monkeys make their debut with this album full of energy, the way the 2 guitars complement each other, the strength and impetus of Matt Helders on drums, as well as the voice of Alex Turner, make "Whatever people say i am that's what i'm not" an emblem of Indie rock. Their "Garage Rock" sound makes me feel younger.
All the songs here are good but just to highlight a few; "A Certain Romance", "Mardy Boom" and "When the Sun Goes Down".

Solid album

The sequencing on this album is great. No track is a second too long or short. Every time a new track opens, I am immediately excited.

An album I hold very dearly to my heart as one my first ever loves of music. In terms of British indie music this is as good as it gets in the 21st century. Full of heart, energy and unbridled joy it stands the test of time as kids get older in to their late teens and experience the exact same moments.