Tranquility Base Hotel + Casino
by Arctic Monkeys
  • Record Label: Domino
  • Release Date: May 11, 2018
User Score
7.4

Generally favorable reviews- based on 701 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 504 out of 701
  2. Mixed: 103 out of 701
  3. Negative: 94 out of 701
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this album

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. chrislis1
    May 12, 2018
    7
    I would rather listen to Turner's half-arsed, pretentious, self-indulging songwriting than a lot of what the charts have to offer atm. Yes the album lacks great choruses, catchy hooks, and the songs do blend into one another a bit too much. But "Tranquility" still shows off Turner's profound songwriting ability, even if no-one's quite sure what he's on about this time. Plus, the group'sI would rather listen to Turner's half-arsed, pretentious, self-indulging songwriting than a lot of what the charts have to offer atm. Yes the album lacks great choruses, catchy hooks, and the songs do blend into one another a bit too much. But "Tranquility" still shows off Turner's profound songwriting ability, even if no-one's quite sure what he's on about this time. Plus, the group's range is ever expanded with this release.

    Probably the Arctic's weakest album yet, but still worth a few listens as this is far from a pop album. Not quite "Four Out Of Five" from me though Alex.    … Expand
  2. hrodgar
    May 12, 2018
    0
    Waited so long for this new album and I'm very surprised. I don't like it. It not what I expected from Arctic Monkes after AM and other ones. the songs are too similar to each other and there isn't the sound that made Arctic Mnkeys different from other bands.
    I'm lucky I didn't buy the ticket for the european tour.
  3. Alex016
    May 12, 2018
    2
    After five years of waiting, we got a bad album with boring music. The lyrics are interesting, but that's not enough.

    This is a very "The Emperor's New Clothes" situation. Only smart people see and understand beauty. Is that right? I say - the emperor is naked!
  4. A7sus4
    May 12, 2018
    5
    Sorry devotees and counter intuitive critics. I'll give it a few more spins but so far this is trash.
  5. filipehondrey12
    May 12, 2018
    7
    Not a good album, I'm sure it could be better, but maybe one day I'll enjoy it.
  6. AlexWaterwalk
    May 12, 2018
    10
    This is the break-free album that I had expected from the band. It's their Achtung Baby / Kid A / Low / Sgt. Pepper... I had mixed feelings at first, but it gets better with each listen, like any great album does !
    This is already my favorite album by them, and turning one of my favorite album ever.
    No weak song here. If I had to pick a few favorites out of it, it would probably be Star    This is the break-free album that I had expected from the band. It's their Achtung Baby / Kid A / Low / Sgt. Pepper... I had mixed feelings at first, but it gets better with each listen, like any great album does !
    This is already my favorite album by them, and turning one of my favorite album ever.
    No weak song here. If I had to pick a few favorites out of it, it would probably be Star Treatment, Tranquility Base Hotel + Casino and Four Out Of Five.    … Expand
  7. PrimaryConsumer
    May 12, 2018
    10
    An album like nothing else I've ever heard. Even if their next project is another Guitar Stadium Bangers collection (as it likely should be) at the very least this album will be remembered as a wonderful experiment.
  8. mccv
    May 12, 2018
    5
    The absence of the band was long so the expectations rose to a high values. i was prepared for something new but I also hoped that they might go back to their roots. After hearing all of the songs I must say there is a big change but this change is not good. There are maybe 3 songs that I actually enjoyed and as a fan, I'm dissappointed. The whole album seems to be too lazy, few songs areThe absence of the band was long so the expectations rose to a high values. i was prepared for something new but I also hoped that they might go back to their roots. After hearing all of the songs I must say there is a big change but this change is not good. There are maybe 3 songs that I actually enjoyed and as a fan, I'm dissappointed. The whole album seems to be too lazy, few songs are too slow and I felt that they had meant to be played much faster. There is one song that has enormous potential to be a worldwide hit but it was played too slow in this case. I'm talking about "She looks like fun". This meant to be short review so to sum up, I'm giving it 5 because if some of these songs were played with more power, it would be much more fun to hear some of them. And I can't stand that "She looks like fun" was played that way - it has so much potential.… Expand
  9. Itsamatt
    May 11, 2018
    4
    Yup...it uh... sure is Arctic Monkeys.

    I wish I could say this any other way but it was just dull. I was really hoping from the preview that the album would be a little more different. I was really hoping for some fast-paced, very music-centric songs. Instead, however, Alex's voice was still front and center and the lyrics were, at times, absolute gibberish that I think was just    Yup...it uh... sure is Arctic Monkeys.

    I wish I could say this any other way but it was just dull. I was really hoping from the preview that the album would be a little more different. I was really hoping for some fast-paced, very music-centric songs. Instead, however, Alex's voice was still front and center and the lyrics were, at times, absolute gibberish that I think was just supposed to "get you lost". It was exactly what I would expect an AM album to be. That's about all I can say. I was hoping for something more refreshing. Instead, I got more or less what they've previously supplied.    … Expand
  10. Droogle
    May 11, 2018
    8
    Not their best record yes, but defiantly a strong effort nevertheless. It is obvious that the band has matured, and Turner pushing AM to new limits. Lyrically, this is Alex Turner's swan song. It will be interesting to see where the band travels next. Also, to complain about Arctic Monkeys are abandoning their sound is ridiculous. The only two albums that sound vaguely similar are theNot their best record yes, but defiantly a strong effort nevertheless. It is obvious that the band has matured, and Turner pushing AM to new limits. Lyrically, this is Alex Turner's swan song. It will be interesting to see where the band travels next. Also, to complain about Arctic Monkeys are abandoning their sound is ridiculous. The only two albums that sound vaguely similar are the first two. Each record has tried a different sound, some failing (Suck it and See) and others succeeding (AM).… Expand
  11. sammyanthony
    May 11, 2018
    6
    Waited 4 years for this.

    The result? It's more like a spin-off, which may be indicating their new (yet still raw and unprepared) experimental project. Can't agree more than the fact that many songs remind me of David Bowie's era. The title theme is suited perfectly in each song; bringing passionless, lackluster mood and such. After all, it's still worth to get a listen, to hear their    Waited 4 years for this.

    The result? It's more like a spin-off, which may be indicating their new (yet still raw and unprepared) experimental project. Can't agree more than the fact that many songs remind me of David Bowie's era. The title theme is suited perfectly in each song; bringing passionless, lackluster mood and such. After all, it's still worth to get a listen, to hear their so-called 'growth' and the new ambiance of Arctic Monkeys.    … Expand
  12. harry909
    May 11, 2018
    10
    It feels like a '2001: A Space Odyssey' where it takes time to fully understand and overall accept it's greatness. Gives me major Bowie/ Radiohead vibes such as multiple listens add to the experience and you will get more out of the album as a whole on say the 10th listen. The lyricism is incredible with a brilliant concept. A very bold move with the success of AM and will surelyIt feels like a '2001: A Space Odyssey' where it takes time to fully understand and overall accept it's greatness. Gives me major Bowie/ Radiohead vibes such as multiple listens add to the experience and you will get more out of the album as a whole on say the 10th listen. The lyricism is incredible with a brilliant concept. A very bold move with the success of AM and will surely disappoint fans looking for their older sound but to say there are no guitars or drums is ridiculous, you just need to listen for them. An epic concept that truly succeeds… Expand
  13. aly23
    May 11, 2018
    2
    Amo Arctic Monkeys mas, esse album parece um álbum do Roberto Carlos.
    horrivel.
  14. televizyon7
    May 11, 2018
    10
    Arctic Monkeys’ sixth album, whose name is inspired by that landing spot, is not quite as towering an achievement as putting a man on the moon – but consider this the band’s boldest step yet. “Giant leap”? we can barely see them from here.
  15. MagicGnome
    May 11, 2018
    9
    I'm surprised at how divisive this album is been. It is the Arctic Monkeys most experimental album, but it's still not that experimental. I don't think it makes sense to compare it to Kid A, Kid A was far more experimental. It has some of their best lyrics and some of the best instruments by them in my opinion. Yea, there aren't many choruses, I don't miss them. I don't know what theI'm surprised at how divisive this album is been. It is the Arctic Monkeys most experimental album, but it's still not that experimental. I don't think it makes sense to compare it to Kid A, Kid A was far more experimental. It has some of their best lyrics and some of the best instruments by them in my opinion. Yea, there aren't many choruses, I don't miss them. I don't know what the reviewers that are giving this album a 5/10 and below are hearing. Maybe they're listing to the album once with earbuds, or maybe they just really like guitars and don't have an open mind?… Expand
  16. TheusFurler
    May 11, 2018
    8
    The more you listen to it, the better it gets. Yeah, Arctic Monkeys, The most interesting, personal and the deepest album.
  17. petrosv
    May 11, 2018
    0
    maybe the worst album of the year. such a same! listened to whatever people say I am to remember the old, glory days.
  18. kikifd
    May 11, 2018
    7
    Its hard to like it the first time you listen to. It gets better with the time, but compared with the previous albums, its just not enough. Liked they chagend their groove, its nice to change sometimes.
  19. thisisthesam
    May 11, 2018
    8
    Definitely a grower. It gets better with every listen. A drastic change from previous material but shows signs of a band progressing, taking risks and evolving. Each time you visit the album, you find something that you didn't before, giving the album replay value. Very excited to see how it translates live. Kudos should be given for a mainstream band putting something like this out thanDefinitely a grower. It gets better with every listen. A drastic change from previous material but shows signs of a band progressing, taking risks and evolving. Each time you visit the album, you find something that you didn't before, giving the album replay value. Very excited to see how it translates live. Kudos should be given for a mainstream band putting something like this out than the normal 'safe' drivel.… Expand
  20. DukeElli31
    May 11, 2018
    10
    What seems at first confusing and similar becomes richer and richer with every listen. Turner's lyrics have never been weirder and more interesting; the band has never been more intricate with the sound. As we have learned from Humbug and AM, the only thing you can really expect from this band is to do something completely unexpected.
  21. MShrouded
    May 11, 2018
    9
    For almost 5 years I have waited for a new Arctic Monkeys Album I could seriously get excited for. Against what it seems like the rest of the world, I despised the majority of their last album AM.
    In my opinion AM felt like a radio safe cash grab with plenty of gooey love songs to keep people who hadn't listened to any of their older albums listening for years. It felt like Alex Turner    For almost 5 years I have waited for a new Arctic Monkeys Album I could seriously get excited for. Against what it seems like the rest of the world, I despised the majority of their last album AM.
    In my opinion AM felt like a radio safe cash grab with plenty of gooey love songs to keep people who hadn't listened to any of their older albums listening for years. It felt like Alex Turner had lost his lyrical punch and wasn't willing to experiment anymore, like he had in Humbug and Favourite Worst Nightmare.
    Tranquility Base Hotel and Casino is a refreshing return to that feeling of "What did he mean by this?" because while listening I sometimes had no idea what he was singing about. Now that may sound like the worst endorsement for this album one could give. However, I used to wonder like that with every Arctic Monkeys' album and it was the most fun thing about their music. Some people may be off put by the fact this is a heavily sci-fi influenced concept album, but do not fear as there's plenty of tracks a casual listener would enjoy. Concept albums have always had a warm place in my heart, so this was a rare treat coming from my favorite band. The only really negative thing I can say is that some tracks do have such a similar sound that they don't feel distinct enough, and on occasion the album meanders in such a slow and homogeneous direction I caught myself tuning out. The lyrical content is still enough to suck me back in at these moments and that's always what I've loved about Alex Turner's writing.
    With great tracks like Four out of Five and Batphone being the biggest standouts, I will be listening to this for years to come. The pleasant ethereal sound, twisting words, smooth piano and simple but enjoyable bass rhythms give me so much to enjoy about Tranquility Base Hotel and Casino.

    Final side note: The lyric "What do you mean you've never seen Bladerunner?" is maybe the funniest thing I've heard on an Arctic Monkeys album and a great potential tattoo.    … Expand
  22. Gpuccetti
    May 11, 2018
    10
    Great album as a whole! There are only a few songs that stand out independently, but taken together it is the best album I have heard this year.
  23. nofilla
    May 11, 2018
    4
    I've read quite a few reviews on this album after listening to it three times. I'd have to agree with pretty much all of them. It is different, it is definitely unique, it does sounds like the arctic monkeys, but at the same time it sound like b-side Arctic Monkeys. I mean I'm sure they put a ton of effort into this but the effort falls flat. Extremely flat. The first few songs are justI've read quite a few reviews on this album after listening to it three times. I'd have to agree with pretty much all of them. It is different, it is definitely unique, it does sounds like the arctic monkeys, but at the same time it sound like b-side Arctic Monkeys. I mean I'm sure they put a ton of effort into this but the effort falls flat. Extremely flat. The first few songs are just boring. Sometimes I want to tell Alex to shut up, because all he's doing is singing nonsense. Maybe it makes since as a futuristic lounge act on the moon or whatever he's going for, but man, I wish he'd just stop singing and play guitar. I understand bands wanting to change things up, but this is polar opposite of everything they've done as Arctic Monkeys. I definitely hear a bit of The Last Shadow Puppets in this, which probably could have been avoided by having more input from the band as a whole. There are literally only two songs from this album I'd want to hear again - 4 out of 5 & She looks like fun. The other songs are just weak. I was a huge fan of their first album, Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not and AM. The albums in between had some pretty good songs, but they did not compare to these two albums. I was hoping with AM they were going back to their roots and were going to stick with it. Unfortunately I was wrong and as Alex said in an interview, I think he's run out of ideas.… Expand
  24. onlyroma
    May 11, 2018
    10
    There's no problem with a bit different from the previous albums, TBHC is very fresh and beauty with more piano and a bit guitar. overall TBHC is fresh, personal and with powerful details. Good job Arctic Monkeys.
  25. wilksojack14
    May 11, 2018
    6
    Arctic Monkeys return with perhaps their most thoughtful record yet. Sonically nostalgic, aesthetically futuristic and lyrically humourous, Tranquility Base is a smooth, listenable record that rewards the listener willing to dive deeper into the lyrics and instrumentation with a number of poignant and introspective moments, with obvious inspiration from artists like Bowie and The BeachArctic Monkeys return with perhaps their most thoughtful record yet. Sonically nostalgic, aesthetically futuristic and lyrically humourous, Tranquility Base is a smooth, listenable record that rewards the listener willing to dive deeper into the lyrics and instrumentation with a number of poignant and introspective moments, with obvious inspiration from artists like Bowie and The Beach Boys' Pet Sounds. However, the album is unwound by Turner's obvious dominance throughout all aspects, and the marked lack of real excitement or punch that has underpinned much of the Monkeys' success, leading it to drag on a little, as Turner continues to drawl over the tracks like some sort of Sheffield/1960s US radio host hybrid. Overall, it seems more like a luxurious and extravagant Alex Turner album than a true Arctic Monkeys' project, and far from their best work.

    Favourite track: Four Out Of Five.
    Least favourite track: The Ultracheese    … Expand
  26. lamlung
    May 11, 2018
    7
    Tranquility Base is an ambitious, if flawed, progression from previous Arctic Monkeys albums. Slower and more introspective, the album shows that the five year departure has not dulled the band's sense of musicianship, and the production values have never been better. Its meandering piano and baselines solidify a space age feel throughout the entirety of the album, looking back to theTranquility Base is an ambitious, if flawed, progression from previous Arctic Monkeys albums. Slower and more introspective, the album shows that the five year departure has not dulled the band's sense of musicianship, and the production values have never been better. Its meandering piano and baselines solidify a space age feel throughout the entirety of the album, looking back to the science fiction classics of the 1960's and 1970's. Guitar is used sparsely, but to good effect throughout, much like the slower songs contained in AM. However, the complexity and layering of the sound is what really shines, and the album lends itself to multiple listens.

    That being said, the album suffers lyrically. The band's albums have never really tried to say much, and that common sensibility ensured a grounded, timeless rock feel. This album tries too hard to make a point, but the lyrics are so muddled and occasionally nonsensical that it is hard to parse what that may be. While this isn't true of every track, it is a running theme throughout the album, and one that distracts from the music itself.

    Overall, this album is one that is certainly deserving of a listen, but will not be for every fan of the Arctic Monkeys. If you cared for AM, then it is at least worth a shot, but even fans of that album will find that five years can do a lot to change the style of a band, and that not all of the changes were for the better.    … Expand
  27. jarjarbinkz
    May 11, 2018
    10
    What a change from the previous albums, but a very good change in my opinion. There are some very good tracks on here, with Four out of five as my personal favourite.

    Give this album a fair chance and you'll love it.
  28. GhigiRomero
    May 11, 2018
    6
    No es un mal álbum pero le faltó mayor variedad porque cae muy fácilmente en la monotonía.
    Por consiguiente da la impresión de ser muy largo y muy pesado, Se vale intentó de experimentar pero eso no significa que saliera bien.
  29. RMAIA505
    May 11, 2018
    0
    Should have been released as Alex Turner solo record. There are no drums and 0 guitars in this, that becomes a snooze fest after the third track
  30. MarioIrmaos
    May 11, 2018
    0
    This is not bad. A bad album has at least one or two decent tracks, this has NONE.
  31. Tiduraes
    May 11, 2018
    4
    The new Arctic Monkeys album is better than their last effort, but it's still a snoozefest. If AM was a watered down Queens of the Stone Age, this one sounds like Nick Cave high on dramamine.
  32. Danielalves
    May 11, 2018
    4
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Foi oque eu esperava, com toda certeza nao e um album do arctic monkeys, e um album que eu julgo ser quase um solo do Turner, e um album razoável, temos que aceitar que para uma espera de 5 anos nao saiu tudo que esperavamos, espero que esse album seja mais uma experiencia e nao se torno o concreto rumo que o AM siga daqui para frente, ainda espero que retornem para o antigo estilo de musicas marcantes de batidas envolventes que nao saem da cabeça, ate la escutamos TBH+c...… Expand
  33. Przemke
    May 11, 2018
    3
    After the disapointing "suck it and see" you gave us hope with "AM" the real Arctic Monkeys could come back. And now this. Already knew it would sound like this after I've seen the new look of you, but it's sad anyway. Hell, give Matt the drumssticks right back!
  34. afar1
    May 11, 2018
    3
    So, it's a me, myself Alex Turner album....want to be Bowie..with bad knock off songs...lazy listening ....poor Bowie...leave him alone....the ending of every song is usually good ...no joke!....
    the writing is good and an occasional hint of possible hope some parts of the songs ....ohhhhh Boy...
    disappointing ...
  35. ABond1991
    May 11, 2018
    10
    In a time when most mainstream rock bands tend to stay popular with their fan-bases by sitting safely in the comfort zone of self-parody and redundancy, the Arctic Monkeys could have easily made a “triumphant return” after a long hiatus by bringing out Any Of Our Other Albums, Version 2.0, but they instead release a record that almost makes most of their prior discography seem like aIn a time when most mainstream rock bands tend to stay popular with their fan-bases by sitting safely in the comfort zone of self-parody and redundancy, the Arctic Monkeys could have easily made a “triumphant return” after a long hiatus by bringing out Any Of Our Other Albums, Version 2.0, but they instead release a record that almost makes most of their prior discography seem like a run-up before the jump. Taking sounds previously only briefly explored on songs like Love Is A Laserquest and The Jeweller’s Hands, the band draws further inspiration from the likes of David Bowie, Nick Cave, The Beach Boys, Leonard Cohen, and Marvin Gaye, to craft their most layered album to date, Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino - an outing that’s equal parts fun and grating. This is not an immediate experience by any means, the definition of a true grower.


    The all-analog production of the record fits it like a glove and helps elevate the band’s performances. Matt Helders’s drumming is so carefully crafted and precise, that you can’t help but wonder if he had been practicing playing jazz in his spare time. Some of the fills he came up with are played in such a way, that they almost sound chopped, a kind of a strange reversal of hip-hop sampling. Nick O’Malley’s bass is so thick and sweet throughout that you can practically taste it, as no Monkey’s record before this one has sounded as rich in groove. Guitars are not as omnipresent on Tranquility Base as they were on their previous albums, yet when Jamie Cook inevitably makes his sometimes brief appearances (as a guitarist that is, as he also plays lap-steel and Organ on some songs), he always makes them count, as they never fail to elevate the songs. The piano and synths, as played by Alex Turner, are integrated so uniquely and with such novelty, that only a guitarist who suddenly decided to write an album on piano could have come up with it. Perhaps the best decision still was made by the band’s long-time collaborator, producer James Ford, who opted to use Alex Turner’s original home demos of lead vocals, instead of re-recording them in a professional studio setting. As a result Turner has never sounded as diverse, captivating, and emotionally resonant: from the suffocated falsetto on the title track and melodic declamation on Star Treatment, to the more immediately powerful open singing on the album’s closing track and Batphone.


    What the songs on the album may be lacking in radio-friendly catchy choruses (albeit there are plenty of immediately memorable hooks of other nature), they more than make up for in instantly quotable lyrics. Alex Turner rather cleverly avoids making any grand political statements or pseudo-intellectual commentary, spearing the listener of the idiocy that so many other songwriters who attempt to tackle such subject matter don’t seem to have the common decency to do. “Trust the politics to come along/When you were just trying to orbit the sun/When you were just about to be kind to someone because you had the chance”, the audibly disheartened Turner sings on The Ultracheese. Filled to the brim with lyrics ranging from mission statements (“I want to make a simple point about peace and love/But in a sexy way where it’s not obvious/Highlight dangers and send out hidden messages/The way some science fiction does” from Science Fiction) and autobiographical confessions (“I just wanted to be one of The Strokes/Now look at the mess you made me make/Hitchhiking with a monogrammed suitcase/Miles away from any half-useful imaginary highway” from Star Treatment), to clever one-liners (“So when you gaze at planet earth from outer space, does it wipe that stupid look off of your face"” from American Sports) and charmingly goofy pleas (“Pull me in close on a crisp eve baby/Kiss me underneath the moon's side boob” from the title track). If it seems like Turner comes off more like a sixty-year-old with some of the stream of consciousness ramblings about modern technology, social media, gentrification and “imaginative advertisement” than a thirty-year-old that he is, that’s because that absolutely is the case, and the lyrics and their delivery are all the better and more fun for it.

    The point of no return, Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino is bound to become at the very least a career-changing album, perhaps even their magnum opus. Following the release of Humbug nearly nine years ago (“doesn’t time fly"”) Nick O’Malley said: “Now we can do anything we want!”. Perhaps that wasn’t the case just yet back then, it certainly is now.    … Expand
  36. NicoPerciani
    May 11, 2018
    3
    Arctic Monkeys is a personal favorite of mine, but this album was actually quite disappointing . The whole thing is quite sluggish and analogous, and I honestly felt like there wasn't a single rush of excitement through the entirety of it. At the end, this album translates to a monotonous rainy day.
  37. ScorpionKing
    May 11, 2018
    10
    I liked TOO much of the footprint of TLSP and Pink Floyd, a keyboard too good to hear, very calm and progressive! the best in my opinion are: Four Out of Five, One Point Persepective, She Looks Like Fun, Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino, The Ultrachesse and Star Treatment, but I found it all good, a very well crafted album.
  38. critical_
    May 11, 2018
    8
    The more you listen to it, the better it gets. This Arctic Monkeys album shows how their music has evolved and matured. Lyrically, Tranquility Base Hotel + Casino is their best one yet, though some songs can feel a bit dull and empty without the typical AM guitars and drums. Still, the new album proves that the Arctic Monkeys are back and are ready to be more adventurous.
  39. mikaelalmeida
    May 11, 2018
    1
    O que aconteceu com a banda que eu me apaixonei em 2006? Ela morreu de um acidente gravíssimo chamado "TRANQUILITY BASE HOTEL + CASINO", fico feliz por pelo menos terem tido uma vida mais longa que a da Lady Gaga, falecida em 2011. R.I.P.
  40. Masquic
    May 11, 2018
    3
    A lot of same sounds and poor lyrics. I didn't expect something like their previous album, but I was expecting something that wouldn't bored me to death
  41. thejosefo
    May 11, 2018
    1
    Nice try Alex, but no, the album is boring and flat, Where are the guitars? Being innovative doesn't mean that you are a visionary.
  42. R55Clubman
    May 11, 2018
    2
    I have genuinely never been so disappointed when listening to a bands album. Some people will love this, but I have gotten through one play through and not a single song resonates with me. I cant even pin point a genre for it, its that obscure.
  43. Luiz42
    May 11, 2018
    8
    I prefer the arctic monkeys with more frenetic and rockier songs. But they changed completely, and for me it was not so bad. I had never listened to an album like that, sort of slow space rock with jazz, and I kinda liked it.

    The individual songs are a bit mediocre, but the album as a whole is nice, relaxing, and it takes you to another planet. The big problem is the lack of    I prefer the arctic monkeys with more frenetic and rockier songs. But they changed completely, and for me it was not so bad. I had never listened to an album like that, sort of slow space rock with jazz, and I kinda liked it.

    The individual songs are a bit mediocre, but the album as a whole is nice, relaxing, and it takes you to another planet.

    The big problem is the lack of inspiration , they made songs that sound exactly the same, like "One Point Perspective" and "American Sports". I was already expecting a slower piano album, but one or two heavier guitar songs would be good
    The high point of the album is definitely "Four Out of Five"

    (Sorry for the english, it's not my main language)    … Expand
  44. Wael
    May 11, 2018
    6
    From the second this record kicks off, it is pretty obvious that it is unlike anything the Monkeys have done before.
    That is in the sense that this new album has a futuristic feel to it lyrically (songs like "American Sports" and the title track somehow explore the theme of life on the moon) while sonically, it sounds like a record that could've been very easily released in the 70's (give    From the second this record kicks off, it is pretty obvious that it is unlike anything the Monkeys have done before.
    That is in the sense that this new album has a futuristic feel to it lyrically (songs like "American Sports" and the title track somehow explore the theme of life on the moon) while sonically, it sounds like a record that could've been very easily released in the 70's (give the opener, "Star Treatment" a listen, it is an absolute highlight). It is a very weird approach to take: it takes a lot of listens to really dive in and actually start to like this collection of very-well produced songs (I'm on my third listen, and I'm very much intrigued). The lyricism is very sharp, and the vocal production is layered, making Turner sound like he's singing from outer space. However, towards the middle of the tracklist, the songs start to feel a bit.. noisy; there's no denying that the album could have used a change of pace a bit here and there. "Batphone" arguably has the weirdest chorus on here (in a good way) and another highlight is "The Ultracheese", which sounds like it could've fit well on the band's previous effort, "AM", ending the record on a very likable dreamy note.

    Obviously, "Tranquility Base Hotel + Casino" is a new turn for the Monkeys (it actually sounds more like a solo Alex Turner project), and while it may be way less accessible than its predecessor, it is undeniably and ultimately a resonant body of work.    … Expand
  45. adiosjunebruja
    May 11, 2018
    9
    Stop pinning yourself to the past of the band. They grew up. It's a great album, yes.
  46. wazula5
    May 11, 2018
    0
    This is my favorite band. This is their worst album, by a lot.
    I preordered on iTunes, now i'll be learning how to deorder.
  47. hjmobbs
    May 11, 2018
    4
    First half is dull, no other way of putting. Second half warmed on me a bit. ngl it's kinda what I expected. A mediocre album with a couple of decent tunes thrown in here and there.
  48. augustobt
    May 11, 2018
    0
    Listen to this record was one fo the worse decisions I’ve ever voluntarily took in my entire life.

    It’s prey much my definition of “everything that can be bad”: Overhyped, pretentious and unbelievable weak. Two or maybe three songs are ‘okay’ (that’s being gentile), the rest is REALLY bad. This is, by far, the most ‘different’ AM record of them all, but that’s not exactly a good    Listen to this record was one fo the worse decisions I’ve ever voluntarily took in my entire life.

    It’s prey much my definition of “everything that can be bad”: Overhyped, pretentious and unbelievable weak.

    Two or maybe three songs are ‘okay’ (that’s being gentile), the rest is REALLY bad. This is, by far, the most ‘different’ AM record of them all, but that’s not exactly a good thing. If genius have trouble reinventing themselves and aren’t always successful in doing that, just wonder a band extremely overrated guided by a frontman that isn’t exactly a great singer…

    The album goes past half-way without a single slightest high point, if you let the disc looping you won’t even notice when it starts or when and where it ends. Oh, and the piano-driven melodies are astoundingly poor.

    I’m sure the usual suspects like NME will come and praise this, as well as I’m sure to see some excerpts of the lyrics polluting instagram subtitles, tinder bios and 13yo tumblrs. But don’t be fooled: This is Arctic Monkey’s St. Anger - actually, Mojo gave the same score to both records, hahahaha

    If I had put my weener inside a lawn moaner it would’ve had been a better idea than listen to this whole thing expecting anything to be remotelly good.    … Expand
  49. FelixGr
    May 11, 2018
    10
    This album is a bold decision from the artic. There is not much drive in this album, for which many loved them. But, it does not make the album worse than others, does give a special feature. The album itself represents an interrelated and integral picture. It's a relaxing album, which, with every audition, delivers more and more pleasure and begins to like more. Definitely a good album
  50. BlazerDave_
    May 11, 2018
    9
    This band is always evolving and trying something different. For fans of AM this may not be an album you will enjoy on first or second listen, however Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino does reward with repeated listens. A bold and brave new step for the Arctic Monkeys.
  51. destinyfans
    May 11, 2018
    10
    The Arctic Monkeys having been on hiatus for 5 years, have evolved. Alex Turner has matured and fine-tuned his craft of songwriting, and the rest of the band has matured in their instruments, and it shows on their new album. For the band to take such a bold risk and change music style, it worked out perfectly and created a masterpiece. Reminiscent of Bowie, Floyd, and even The Doors,The Arctic Monkeys having been on hiatus for 5 years, have evolved. Alex Turner has matured and fine-tuned his craft of songwriting, and the rest of the band has matured in their instruments, and it shows on their new album. For the band to take such a bold risk and change music style, it worked out perfectly and created a masterpiece. Reminiscent of Bowie, Floyd, and even The Doors, Arctic Monkeys "Tranquility Base Hotel and Casino" shines as a testament and twist to the music of the late 20th century.… Expand
  52. rafaelmsolid
    May 11, 2018
    7
    Enough for elevator music. But the execution is okay, awesome bass lines, Alex voice and piano. It's a good album, but sounds better if released with a Alex Turner solo record.
  53. Faryal
    May 11, 2018
    10
    Yes, this is a departure from the bands old stuff - but it's still recognizably Arctic Monkeys. And it's good. The lyricism is taken up a notch even from Turner's usual clever construction, and the musical arrangements are layered and lay well together, yielding some combination of a lounge-y, groovy, spacey vibe. This is a great album to dedicate time to listen to, or to have playing atYes, this is a departure from the bands old stuff - but it's still recognizably Arctic Monkeys. And it's good. The lyricism is taken up a notch even from Turner's usual clever construction, and the musical arrangements are layered and lay well together, yielding some combination of a lounge-y, groovy, spacey vibe. This is a great album to dedicate time to listen to, or to have playing at low volume across the room. Arctic Monkeys go their own way as usual, and this time their way seems to be a random tangent that somehow really works.… Expand
  54. cherrymiddle
    May 11, 2018
    0
    So this is what the sound of one man´s large ego sounds like? First of all, I like to say that I enjoyed Arctic Monkeys quite alot once. But, something has happened seen those "early days" of "Whatever People Say I Am im Not". In my book, the last really solid record was "Humbug" might even say that "Suck It And See" was decent enough. I HATED AM. Unpopular opinion. But this is reallySo this is what the sound of one man´s large ego sounds like? First of all, I like to say that I enjoyed Arctic Monkeys quite alot once. But, something has happened seen those "early days" of "Whatever People Say I Am im Not". In my book, the last really solid record was "Humbug" might even say that "Suck It And See" was decent enough. I HATED AM. Unpopular opinion. But this is really boring, and perhaps bit too slow at times.

    In an interview Alex Turner revealed his bandmates told him that this could be better used as a "solo record" if im not mistaken. You should listen to your pals, Alex. I feel the other members basically had to throw themselves into something that Alex saw, HIS vision. Not a bands vision. Where every member is part of the making. This problem also accured largly, on the side project of Alex Turners "Last Shadow Puppets" among with Miles Kane. Where the later, only have ONE song with his own lead vocals on the entire record. My question, and I think alot of others is really : "What´s Up Alex?" Last: This record really took 5 years in the making? Giving the time amount, you can´t really say it was worth the wait.    … Expand
  55. Tiago_Nevez
    May 11, 2018
    7
    An expected album sincerely. AM was a transition album, IMO. This one is just the confirmation of the new Arctic Monkeys. With a stronger influence by Alex Turner, no doubt about that.
  56. BillyB95
    May 11, 2018
    7
    TBH&C sounds as its main title says: it makes you feel like you're in a big lounge from a private club, with Turner on the piano and (in this case) his supporting band playing in the background. Its sound has a beautiful treatment, but the lack of chorus and its repetitive tempo makes of TBH&C an album difficult to digest, and it will need more than one hearing for being able to appreciateTBH&C sounds as its main title says: it makes you feel like you're in a big lounge from a private club, with Turner on the piano and (in this case) his supporting band playing in the background. Its sound has a beautiful treatment, but the lack of chorus and its repetitive tempo makes of TBH&C an album difficult to digest, and it will need more than one hearing for being able to appreciate its delicate sound, although on the first hearing, this album doesn't give you enough cheers for giving it a second chance. Despite this, it's undeniable the genius of this British band who makes us know that they still have a lot to tell.… Expand
  57. Jaqwaan
    May 11, 2018
    4
    Tranquility Base Hotel + Casino is a highly creative and experimental album that doesn't know which audience it is catered too.

    As someone who is new to the Arctic Monkeys experience, I was expecting a similar sound to their highly reputable "AM" album, but I didn't get that, all I got were out of place sci-fi sounds and a heavy voice that wasn't appealing at all.
  58. Breakthewall
    May 11, 2018
    9
    The Arctic Monkeys' equivalent of Kid A. Weird, surprising, off putting at first but amazing on the second listen. Granted, it's not much of an AM album but it's bloody brilliant in it's own right. It's been a long five years.
  59. Maj0rTom
    May 11, 2018
    9
    This album is very different to what AM have done in the past, in fact it almost feels like a solo record for Alex Turner (This isn't a bad thing). You really have to go into the album with an open mind, as unlike their previous albums (especially 2013's AM), there isn't very many tracks that could be seen as "Radio Hits" other than maybe "Four out of Five" or the title track, it feelsThis album is very different to what AM have done in the past, in fact it almost feels like a solo record for Alex Turner (This isn't a bad thing). You really have to go into the album with an open mind, as unlike their previous albums (especially 2013's AM), there isn't very many tracks that could be seen as "Radio Hits" other than maybe "Four out of Five" or the title track, it feels like a very chilled out album with some pretty obscure lyrics (some of my favourites are "What do you mean you've never seen Blade Runner?" from "Star Treatment" and "Kiss me underneath the moon's side boob" from the title track. The album reminds me David Bowie and The Eagles in some tracks (especially "Four out of Five" and the title track).
    The album is a definite grower. My favourite tracks are: TBH+C, Four Out Of Five, Science Fiction and The Ultracheese.
    9/10    … Expand
  60. hiyamich
    May 11, 2018
    10
    An album like no other. Designated in deep space, this thrilling new album provides the band with a diverse catalogue of music and its dramatic switch shows that the boys have moved on from tracky suits and grey adidas socks to something more.. mature.
  61. tomiowa
    May 11, 2018
    0
    Terrible album. The songs all sound the same, bland, uninteresting. The vocals are irritating and too pretentious. This album shows no creativity or talent. 11 boring songs with Alex Turner constantly rambling on, like he's drunk, and reading random words from the dictionary, it tries too hard to be unique, or indie. I don't care for the thin production on the guitar and drums. Most of theTerrible album. The songs all sound the same, bland, uninteresting. The vocals are irritating and too pretentious. This album shows no creativity or talent. 11 boring songs with Alex Turner constantly rambling on, like he's drunk, and reading random words from the dictionary, it tries too hard to be unique, or indie. I don't care for the thin production on the guitar and drums. Most of the songs are ballads and the 'rocking' songs are just boring, nothing memorable about them what so ever. The song titles are bizarre. I understand it's a concept record, but I don't care for it, the lyrics don't paint the picture that Alex Turner intended. He's seems to be blinded by fame and success and each album gets worse and worse, no passion, no energy, no excitement and no emotion. And the fact that there was a 4 and a half year gap between this album and AM just disappoints me even further. All I can say is that it's a huge letdown, it's pretty much bland music that would be suited for background listening, it wants my attention but I don't like it enough. It requires such little skill to craft an album of this caliber. This is pretty much an Alex Turner solo album, left to be forgotten.… Expand
  62. MisterLim
    May 11, 2018
    2
    Awful album. I'm a huge fan of almost every type of music, and I'm a long way from being an Artic Monkeys hater; but the album made me feel like I was listening to Harry Styles debut: Bad and inharmonious vocals, weak lyrics and a concept that looks like a very poorly executed mix of Space Oddity and OK Computer. Anyway, disappointing for fans who waited 5 years for something good. AlsoAwful album. I'm a huge fan of almost every type of music, and I'm a long way from being an Artic Monkeys hater; but the album made me feel like I was listening to Harry Styles debut: Bad and inharmonious vocals, weak lyrics and a concept that looks like a very poorly executed mix of Space Oddity and OK Computer. Anyway, disappointing for fans who waited 5 years for something good. Also unbelievable how the music critics are deceiving everyone.… Expand
  63. Giergiel
    May 11, 2018
    3
    This album is what happens when you give one band member a free pass to do anything they want on an album. It is more of a self-indulgent Alex Turner solo project than an AM release. The lack of their characteristic sounds, no choruses (seriously) and the droning, dragging songs become really tiring really quick. Not all bad, but definitely not good.
  64. Mikedavis06
    May 11, 2018
    0
    What a boring mess. Listened to the first two songs, skimmed through the rest of them and put it down. I hate to sound like a purist but they need to go back to their roots: catchy guitar riffs, hard hitting drums, faster tempos. They can do so much better than this.
  65. BoswellandPercy
    May 11, 2018
    0
    An helpless album which sees Alex experimenting with sounds and a theme that ends up sounding like a catastrophe.
next
Page:

Awards & Rankings

14
#14 Most Discussed Album of 2018
5
#5 Most Shared Album of 2018

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 32 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 23 out of 32
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 32
  3. Negative: 0 out of 32
  1. Austin Chronicle
    Oct 5, 2018
    100
    The Monkeys' most anti-rock album, Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino proves their most adventurous, pop accessibility be damned.
    Read full review
  2. PopMatters
    May 24, 2018
    80
    The first listen may be surprising, but repeated listens illuminate that Arctic Monkeys remain progressive and energetic even when style and mood shift dramatically.
    Read full review
  3. Pretty Much Amazing
    May 23, 2018
    58
    Tranquility Base Hotel and Casino is the best possible kind of average record, one that goes out swinging. One that goes for it on every level. A record that, although it isn’t great by any typical metric, is extremely curious and entertaining.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »