As previously mentioned, my capacity for local local local local independent music is little to none, namely because I’m involved in the local music scene and most of it is terrible. That leaves Tom to sort out that mess. That’s the nature of most music, though, so don’t get down. 99% of the garbage you hear is…well, garbage. It’s searching for that 1% that defines your mornings, your walks to class, your first sexy time episode; those bands and songs stick with you for the rest of your life.

The UK’s Arctic Monkeys are my antidote for modern living. If you haven’t heard, their first release, Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not, became the fastest selling debut album in the history of British music. They’re keen on releasing music (releasing a 5-song EP only months after their blockbuster album) and take themselves as seriously as someone who doesn’t take themselves seriously at all. When introduced on British television, frontman Alex turner introduced the band as “We’re the Arctic Monkeys. Don’t believe the hype.”

They’re latest effort, Favourite Worst Nightmare, features the Monkeys taking a few new sounds without digressing heavily from what made them famous. However, the softer side of Turner  is heard on such beautifully crafted songs as “Only One Who Knows .”

 For you die hard fans, I suggest jumping on your favorite file sharing program and searching for the hard-to-find demos that made the Arctic Monkeys a huge Internet sensation. The band made money (lord knows gigs are paying less and less these days) by cutting demos and selling limited (due to monetary constraints, not a crappy Pearl Jam move) copies at shows.

While you’re at it, check out Youtube for their great covers of The Strokes “Take it or Leave It”, Amy Winehouse’s “You know I’m no Good”, and whoever’s “Diamonds are Forever.” Check it.

–Billy Yost

Editorial Note: Billy boy was called out for sure on the AM not actually charging money for their demos. They gave them out, which makes them even cooler. A quick Wikipedia check would have sorted this out. My b-b-bad.