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Concert reviews Music

Arctic Monkeys at Kool Haus

ARCTIC MONKEYS at the Kool Haus, Sunday, September 15. Rating: NNNN


For the Arctic Monkeys, the Kool Haus is familiar territory, having played there almost every time they’ve visited Toronto. But something about Sunday night’s sold-out show was different, invigorating. From the moment Alex Turner and company hit the stage with their bass-thumping Do I Wanna Know, it was clear the band was feeling confident and ready to perform.

Turner channelled Elvis Presley’s iconic stage presence, from his slicked-back 50s hair to his not-so-subtle hip shakes. While playing Arabella from their new album, AM, he ditched his guitar completely and moved seductively about the stage, showcasing the showman inside the musician.

The eclectic crowd was pumped for fan favourites like Old Yellow Bricks, Pretty Visitors and Dancing Shoes, while I Bet You Look Good On The Dance Floor caused an all-out sing- and dance-along.

At set’s end, Turner addressed the crowd saying, “Toronto, whenever you need me, I’m yours, but the question is…” before launching into R U Mine? Cute-clever interactions like that delighted the audience past performances, however solid musically, always lacked a crowd connection. This live dynamic is what Arctic Monkeys fans have been waiting for.

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