Indie rock band Arctic Monkeys did not disappoint last Friday, Sept. 27, during their second sold-out show at the Fox Theater in Oakland, Calif. Amid a crowd of nearly 3,000 fans, the Sheffield four piece owned the stage and left guests in awe.
The group began an international tour on May 22 to debut their new album, ‘AM.’ Hit tracks including “Do I Wanna Know,” “Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High,” and “R U Mine” were performed along with classics “Fluorescent Adolescent,” “When the Sun Goes Down,” and “I Bet You Look Good on the Dance Floor.”
Lead singer and guitarist Alex Turner stole some hearts with his racy croon and captivating slur while drummer Matt Helders provided a sensuous beat that reverberated through the floorboards and up into the balcony for the duration of the performance.
While the Monkeys were remarkable, a mutual feeling of disappointment was directed towards the opening band Mini Mansions. George Washington High School sophomore Maya Anderson said, “The opening band was not good. . .they were boring and too mellow.” Perhaps the LA-based amateurs were intimidated by the expectant crowd. The majority of people appeared bored and unsatisfied.
Audience members were also concerned about the cramped space. General admission guarantees close contact for upwards of three hours and body heat spreads quickly: “I was pushing and being pushed. . .it was very sweaty,” said local teen Roen Adams.
This concert was worth every penny. The claustrophobic vibe fit the scene perfectly and contributed an element of madness to the overall commotion. Mini Mansions may have proved for a slow start, but their questionable performance contrasted wonderfully with the passion set forth by the headlining artist. You are always welcome, Arctic Monkeys.