Arctic Monkeys - Cornerstone (Domino)

What proved to be a difficult album for many fans to get into, Humbug didn't seem loaded with hits. But 'Cornerstone' was perhaps the track that winked single at you most clearly, with a wicked hook and a delightful tale to tell.

Unconventional in its structure, the song is a tour of fictional pubs and bars with the singer in search of his lost love. As Alex Turner narrates his story, his voice has a slight croon, perhaps influenced by his encounters with Tony Christie. Whatever's caused it, it shows he's growing up and the vocal adds to the track's poignancy.

There are the usual Turner lyrical gems too, that instantly paint pictures in the mind; "I smelt your scent on the seatbelt and kept the shortcuts to myself" is just a magic line. Gently he sings later "tell me where's your hiding place, I'm worried I'll forget your face", and you feel an emotion not previously shared in Arctic Monkeys records.

Humbug was meant to be their growing up album, and 'Cornerstone' is perhaps the most grown up song on there in many ways. It doesn't need fast paced lyrics fired at you at 100 miles an hour in between heaving drums and guitar. Instead it swirls around your head, before gently resting in your subconscious.

Rating: 4/5

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Published: 12/12/2009 at 04:32
Author: David Spencer
Links: Permanent Link