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Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not

by Arctic Monkeys

Released: January 23, 2006

Indie rock, garage rock revival, post-punk revival, punk rock, alternative rock, post-Britpop

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Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Breakthrough.

The Album

"Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not" is the debut studio album by English rock band Arctic Monkeys. Released on 23rd January 2006 by Domino Recording Company, the album was a groundbreaking record of its time and remains one of the seminal records of the 2000s. The album features the band's early trademark rapid-fire lyrics, intricate guitar work, and dry wit.

Stories and details

Interesting Facts

This post-punk revival record was majorly influenced by…

This post-punk revival record was majorly influenced by numerous musical styles like indie rock, garage rock, and punk revival.

The album has a running theme of observational…

The album has a running theme of observational, tongue-in-cheek commentary on modern nightlife and the culture surrounding it.

It has frequently been recognized as one of…

It has frequently been recognized as one of the best albums of its decade in various polls and lists, drawing acclaim for its innovation and influence in multiple genres.

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Essential Tracks

I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor

Tracks like "I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor" and "When The Sun Goes Down" were huge crowd favorites and critical successes.

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Explore the Album

Arctic Monkeys - Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not

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Reception

Peaking at the number one spot on the UK Albums Chart, it became the fastest-selling debut album in UK chart history at the time. This album catapulted the Sheffield-based group into the global spotlight and earned them critical acclaim. The album won the 2006 Mercury Prize and was also nominated for the Best Alternative Music Album at the 49th Annual Grammy Awards.

Full background

The Complete Album Story

Peaking at the number one spot on the UK Albums Chart, it became the fastest-selling debut album in UK chart history at the time. This album catapulted the Sheffield-based group into the global spotlight and earned them critical acclaim. This post-punk revival record was majorly influenced by numerous musical styles like indie rock, garage rock, and punk revival.

The album has a running theme of observational, tongue-in-cheek commentary on modern nightlife and the culture surrounding it. Tracks like "I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor" and "When The Sun Goes Down" were huge crowd favorites and critical successes.

The album won the 2006 Mercury Prize and was also nominated for the Best Alternative Music Album at the 49th Annual Grammy Awards. It has frequently been recognized as one of the best albums of its decade in various polls and lists, drawing acclaim for its innovation and influence in multiple genres.