Arctic Monkeys Rock Sold Out Crowd at Stage AE
The night was warm with a slight breeze blowing across the sold out lawn. Alex Turner strutted on stage, leading the Arctic Monkeys as the crowd erupted with cheers. Dressed in western apparel, hair slicked back, and shiny black boots, Turner brings back a style reminiscent of the 1950’s. The band had its breakthrough in England some six years ago, but has only recently risen to mainstream success. Their newest album, AM, was renown as one of the best albums of 2013 with publications such as the Rolling Stone, Slant Magazine, and Time Out all placing it within their Top 20 albums of 2013.
After White Denim opened for the English indie punk band, the mood was set, the crowd was becoming 
restless, and the sun was just beginning to set. Diving into one hell of a set, the Monkeys opened with their hard-hitting single, “Do I Wanna Know”. The show continued; dominated primarily by songs from their most recent album. It wasn’t until “I Bet You Look Good on the Dance Floor” that we heard anything from their legendary debut album. Introducing the song, Turner said with his English accent, “This ones for the girls.” Screams could be heard in all directions as they tore into a classic I was not expecting many to know. Despite only being known for their more mainstream hits, the crowd belted out every word.
The evening fell and the neon sound wave backdrop became brighter and brighter as the sky darkened. Everyone waited in anticipation for those first few riffs of “Why’d You Only Call Me When Your High?” A little over halfway through the show, they got exactly what they wanted. As the song concluded, I half expected a portion of the crowd to leave. This was not the case. Everyone stayed until the very last song; each sporting their own unique dance moves to go with it. Concluding with “One for the Road”, “I Wanna Be Yours”, and “R U Mine”, the Arctic Monkeys left the crowd only wanting more. It was another great show for the Arctic Monkeys. While we all experienced a concert season without them last year, I wouldn’t worry. Based on the intensity and enthusiasm of Pittsburgh fans, I’m sure they will be back again next summer!
