Arctic Monkeys Make an Unforgettable Return to Music City

Words & Photos by Yoselin Moreno

August 12, 2023 — On August 12th, Arctic Monkeys returned to Nashville, TN for the first time in 5 years, with a stellar performance. The band, which formed in 2002 consisting of frontman Alex Turner, Bassist Nick O’Malley, Guitarist Jamie Cook, and drummer Matt Helders, is currently on their seventh headlining tour. The tour follows the release of the band's 2022 album, The Car. 

As the doors opened and the sun began to set, fans filled Nashville's Ascend Amphitheater, dressed in all-black attire, paying homage to the band's aesthetic over recent years. The excitement was visible as fans gathered to buy merchandise and snap photos with one another.  

The night began at 8:00 p.m. as the opening band, Fontaines D.C, took the stage. 

The band, hailing from Dublin, Ireland, consists of Grian Chatten, Carlos O'Connell, Conor Curley, Conor Deegan III, and Tom Coll. The post-punk band’s subtle yet profound performance set a more than ideal atmosphere for the Arctic Monkeys. Their half-hour set includes performances of “Televised Mind,” “Roman Holiday,” and “Boys In the Better Land.” 

At 9:00 p.m., the Arctic Monkeys made their way to the stage, waving at fans as they got into place.  

The show began with a sheer performance of “Do I Wanna Know,” as a single spotlight revealed lead singer Alex Turner.

With seven studio albums and an ever-evolving sound up their sleeves, I was eager to see what they had in store. It was clear that their hour-and-a-half-long set was dominated by tracks from their 2013 release, AM. The band's set included impeccable performances of “Snap Out of It”, “Fireside,” and “Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High,” to name a few.  

The band also treated fans to songs from their unforgettable 2007 release, Favourite Worst Nightmare. This included heavier songs and fan favorites such as “Brainstorm,” “Teddy Picker,” and “Fluorescent Adolescent.” 

While conversations between the band members and fans were minimal, the band introduced the tracks subtly yet effectively, drawing focus to the music. The Arctic Monkeys' overall 70’s inspired aesthetic, paired with a retro stage design and visuals, kept fans captivated throughout the night. 

Towards the end of the set, fans were treated to a pleasing performance of The Car’s lead single, “There’d Better Be a Mirrorball.” As lead singer Alex Turner continued to charm fans, a giant mirrorball decorated with “MONKEYS” began to descend, ultimately illuminating the venue. 

As the mirror ball continued to shine, the band delivered an electric performance of fan favorite “505,” sending the crowd into a total frenzy. The band then performed “Body Paint” before exiting the stage. 

Arctic Monkeys concluded their set with a three-song encore of “One Point Perspective” followed by a brilliant and thrilling performance of “I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor” and “R U Mine" that sent the crowd into raptures. 

Arctic Monkeys gave an unforgettable performance, one Music City will be talking about for a long time. The band's unique delivery and way of captivating an audience is admirable and incredible to witness, one you must see live to believe.