"Arena" is a live album by the English pop rock band Duran Duran, released on November 12, 1984, by Parlophone. In 2004, the album was reissued on CD in a remastered form with two bonus tracks. Arena was Duran Duran's first live album, released at the height of their commercial success in late 1984, showcasing their energy and popularity during that peak period.
The album features live performances from the band's 1984 world tour, capturing the excitement of their concerts, and includes one new studio-recorded song, "The Wild Boys." The track became a massive hit, reaching number 2 in both the UK and the US, and was widely regarded as one of their signature songs. "The Wild Boys" was also released as a single and became part of the band's enduring legacy.
Alongside the album, Arena was accompanied by several related releases, including the conceptual concert film Arena (An Absurd Notion), which featured behind-the-scenes footage and live performances. There was also a documentary tour book and even a board game created to further immerse fans in the Duran Duran experience. Additionally, an edited version of the film, focusing only on the live performances, was released under the title As the Lights Go Down.
Arena marked the final album to feature the complete original five-piece line-up of the band, which included Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes, John Taylor, Roger Taylor, and Andy Taylor. Following the release of Arena, there would be changes in the band's lineup and musical direction, making this live album an important milestone in Duran Duran's history.
