So, you’ve got a soft spot for the Arctic Monkeys, huh? Who could blame you?
With Turner’s voice and those snappy guitar licks, these guys have been running the indie rock game for years. But let’s face it: not all tracks are made equal, and some deserve more glory than others.
Here are the 25 best Arctic Monkeys songs ranked, IMO. Feel free to argue with me, but just know, Crying Lightning deserves that number one spot, and that’s non-negotiable. 😉
25. Don’t Sit Down ‘Cause I’ve Moved Your Chair
Yeah, we’re kicking things off with this 2011 rock nugget from Suck It and See. It’s got that real heavy riff and slightly goofy lyrics—I mean, „do the Macarena in the devil’s lair”? Okay, Alex, whatever you say.
But seriously, this song’s got the swagger of a big bar brawl, and it sets the tone for what the Arctic Monkeys were going for at the time: a mix of tongue-in-cheek rock and just enough menace to make you scared of them (in a good way).
24. Secret Door
Look, I get it—you might be sleeping on Secret Door. I don’t blame you, but I’m here to change that. Coming off Humbug, this tune is like a daydream: it’s all nostalgia and romantic melancholy with those lilting guitars.
Sure, it’s a bit more mellow compared to some of the band’s other stuff, but that’s the beauty. You get to take a little break and pretend like you’re floating somewhere in Alex Turner’s poetic subconscious.
23. Snap Out of It
From AM, this one’s pure, fun, pop-rock goodness. The track has got that bouncy beat that makes you want to roll the windows down and yell at your ex to stop being sad over you—just like Alex does.
It’s light, it’s catchy, and it doesn’t take itself too seriously. Plus, Turner’s crooning, „I wanna grab both your shoulders and shake, baby,” is just the right amount of romantic desperation.
22. The View From the Afternoon
The opening track from Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not really slaps you awake. It’s all about the chaos of a night out, the kind that starts innocently but somehow ends at 3 a.m. with someone’s kebab all over your shoes.
And you know what? It’s great. If you’re feeling nostalgic for those wild nights, this is the song that’ll take you back there. (Hopefully without the kebab.)
21. Black Treacle
There’s just something about Black Treacle that hits different. Maybe it’s the echoey vocals or those almost dreamy guitars, but it’s the kind of tune that sounds like it belongs to the soundtrack of a coming-of-age movie.
With lyrics about escaping and longing, it’s got all the makings of a Turner classic—brooding, poetic, and a touch mysterious.
20. Do I Wanna Know?
Alright, so here’s the one that even your non-Arctic Monkeys-loving friends know. You can’t deny that iconic riff. It’s moody, bluesy, and just dirty enough to make it the perfect AM track.
This one isn’t higher on the list simply because, honestly, we’ve all heard it a billion times. Still, that doesn’t mean it’s any less of a banger. Turner’s falsettos? Chef’s kiss.
19. Suck It and See
The title track off Suck It and See is like that soft, charming love letter you always wanted. It’s tender but still rock 'n’ roll, with lyrics that manage to be both abstract and sincere.
And let’s face it, we all want someone to tell us, „you’re rarer than a can of dandelion and burdock.” Even if we have no idea what that actually means.
18. Brick by Brick
Brick by Brick is simple, straightforward, and exactly what it says on the tin. It’s got those strong, dirty rock vibes, and it’s Alex just saying he wants to rock—nothing more, nothing less.
Sometimes, that’s all we need. There’s nothing poetic or deep about it, but that doesn’t make it any less of a headbanger.
17. Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High?
Ah, drunk texts. We’ve all been there, and Alex Turner decided to turn that collective mess into a sultry little tune. The pulsating beat and straightforward lyrics make this one a standout from AM.
If you need a song to yell about questionable life choices, this is it. Plus, let’s be real, the song makes bad decisions sound a little too appealing.
16. R U Mine?
Do you know what’s cooler than playing the guitar? Asking if someone is „mine” like you’re living in the middle of an indie flick. That’s R U Mine? for you.
It’s fast-paced, it’s loud, and it’s dripping with that confident swagger that Arctic Monkeys pretty much invented. IMO, it’s one of their best modern rockers—like a sonic shot of espresso.
15. I Wanna Be Yours
How do you take a poem from a book and make it into a dreamy, slightly obsessive love song? I Wanna Be Yours does just that. Originally written by John Cooper Clarke, Turner transforms it into a swoon-worthy track that ends AM on a high note.
„I wanna be your vacuum cleaner / breathing in your dust.” Romantic or creepy? You decide. Either way, I’m into it.
14. One for the Road
Here’s a track that blends slick guitar riffs with Turner’s laid-back croon. One for the Road is about that sweet spot between confidence and trouble, and honestly, it’s pure rock. And let’s not forget the music video—Alex Turner dressed like he’s ready to tend to a farm is just peak Arctic Monkeys.
13. Cornerstone
Sigh. Now we’re getting into heartbreaker territory. Cornerstone is one of those songs where Turner lets his softer side shine, singing about looking for lost love in all the wrong places. It’s beautiful, it’s wistful, and if you’ve ever found yourself reminiscing about someone at 2 a.m., you’ll feel this one in your soul.
12. She’s Thunderstorms
From Suck It and See, this one’s like a summer afternoon turned into a song. The lyrics are romantic in that very specific, Turner way—something about thunder and romance just hits right.
It’s a solid mix of rock and dreaminess, and perfect for those times when you want to fall in love with someone who might just ruin your life (in the best way).
11. Pretty Visitors
Turner’s lyrical genius really shines here—it’s chaotic, fast-paced, and feels almost like a fever dream. The organ riff makes it sound like some kind of creepy carnival, and I’m all about it. It’s got that energy that you need when you’re just not ready to let the night end.
Plus, the line „what came first, the chicken or the dickhead?” is a classic.
10. I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor
Oh boy, here we go. The track that put them on the map—it’s raw, it’s fast, and it doesn’t care what you think. You can’t make an Arctic Monkeys list without this absolute banger. It’s the soundtrack to sweaty nightclubs and regretful texts the next day. It’s still an indie classic, and for good reason.
9. Fireside
You might not think of Fireside first, but give it another listen. It’s got an eerie, almost hypnotic quality that sets it apart. The lyrics are drenched in longing, and the vibe is so bittersweet that it hurts just the right amount.
Turner really nails that „what if” feeling in this track—you know, that moment when you’re staring into the fire and wondering about what could have been.
8. Arabella
Here we go—Arabella. This track is all about that effortless cool. It’s a perfect mix of heavy guitars and smooth, sultry lyrics. The riff alone is enough to get you hooked, but the chorus? Oh, it hits like a shot of pure confidence.
It feels like the kind of song you’d listen to while putting on your leather jacket before heading out for the night, thinking you own the world. And who doesn’t love a good space-themed metaphor thrown into a love song?
7. 505
Ah, 505. If you’re not belting this one out by the time that huge guitar kicks in, then what are you even doing? This song is pure yearning—Turner’s vocals start soft and vulnerable, only to explode into a powerful crescendo.
It’s the ultimate Arctic Monkeys closer, and the kind of track that makes you think about the one that got away, even if you’ve never had one. The build-up is chef’s kiss and always gives you chills.
6. The Hellcat Spangled Shalalala
Coming off Suck It and See, this one’s got that perfect blend of upbeat rock and Alex Turner’s cryptic, charming lyrics. It’s catchy, it’s quirky, and that chorus will definitely get stuck in your head. Plus, it’s just fun to say „shalalala”—don’t deny it.
5. Fluorescent Adolescent
A certified classic, Fluorescent Adolescent is a nostalgic trip back to the reckless, carefree days of youth. It’s catchy, it’s clever, and it’s relatable. Turner’s lyrics capture that feeling of growing older and realizing that things just aren’t as exciting as they used to be.
The riff is infectious, and let’s be honest, we all know someone who’s “flicking through a little book of sex tips.” It’s cheeky, it’s fun, and it’ll always have a special place in any Arctic Monkeys fan’s heart.
4. No. 1 Party Anthem
Don’t let the title fool you—No. 1 Party Anthem isn’t some high-energy banger. It’s actually a slow, almost melancholic track about the kind of parties where you’re more likely to brood in the corner than dance.
Turner’s vocals are smooth and sincere, and the lyrics are pure storytelling magic. It’s the soundtrack to that moment when you catch someone’s eye across the room, and you’re wondering if they’re thinking the same thing as you.
It’s romantic, it’s introspective, and it’s got just the right touch of bittersweet longing.
3. Dance Little Liar
From Humbug, Dance Little Liar is dark, hypnotic, and absolutely mesmerizing. The buildup in this track is unreal—slowly simmering until it finally explodes into that incredible climax.
Turner’s lyrics are mysterious and poetic, and the drumming by Matt Helders is a standout here, adding layers of intensity. It’s one of those songs that feels like a journey, pulling you deeper into its web with every note.
2. Brianstorm
If you want energy, Brianstorm is where it’s at. The opening drums are like a punch to the face (in the best way possible), and the whole song is just relentless. It’s fast, it’s aggressive, and it’s full of swagger.
The lyrics paint a picture of a charismatic, almost chaotic character—someone who breezes in and leaves everyone stunned in his wake. It’s a pure adrenaline rush, and easily one of the Monkeys’ best rockers.
1. Crying Lightning – One Of The BEST Arctic Monkeys Songs Ever
Yeah, I said it—Crying Lightning deserves the top spot, and I’m not backing down. It’s got everything: the eerie atmosphere, the killer bassline, Turner’s cryptic storytelling, and a chorus that just doesn’t quit.
This song captures everything that makes Arctic Monkeys great—their ability to blend darkness with catchy hooks, to tell a story that’s both intriguing and a little unsettling.
And honestly, nothing beats the way this song makes you feel like you’re the coolest person in the room when it comes on. Absolute perfection.
Final Thoughts
Alright, there it is—my very own ranking of Arctic Monkeys bangers. Not saying it’s flawless, but hey, it’s pretty dang close. I know everyone’s got opinions (Arctic Monkeys fans are nothing if not opinionated), but that’s the beauty of it, right?
Love how they can go from chaos to chill in a blink. I mean, these guys have everything: weird lyrics, swagger, heartbreak, and a touch of insanity. Each tune hits differently, whether you’re on a night out or having a deep 3 a.m. existential crisis.
Crank up that volume, get lost in those riffs, and just, y’know, vibe.
But pro tip: try not to make any questionable phone calls after blasting Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High?—I’ve been there, and, well, let’s just say… lesson learned.
