The Arctic Monkeys Play for a Stoked Crowd
The Arctic Monkeys took the stage at five o'clock during a beautiful Saturday afternoon. The Manhattan skyline occupied the background as ferries, yachts and sailboats floated along the harbor directly next to the stage. Although the festival grounds were still muddy, the Tri-State crowd didn't mind as the 4-piece U.K. band entertained with their unique indie sound.
The Arctic Monkeys, formed in 2006, are one of the biggest bands to come out of England this decade. Their guitar driven jams electrified the APW crowd more than any other band all day. Their music sounds good when you hear it in dance clubs, and it sounded crisp and clear live.
Smoke machines clouded The Arctic Monkeys during their 55-minute set, while fans close to the stage held cameras and iPhones in the air. One of the many highlights of the show included "Florescent Adolescence," a foot stomping, hand-clapping, feel-good song, while dozens of beach balls bounced in the summer air. The Arctic Monkeys continued with their popular fast paced anthem "Brainstorm."
To the side of the stage, where there was dry room, festival goers reclined on blankets, resting their feet and sunbathing. Young lovers played with each other's hair, as a gentle breeze contributed to the mood. Beer drinkers, caged like animals, were limited to an area even further back in the beer garden, which was filled to capacity. The Arctic Monkeys competently played "I Bet You Look Good on the Dance Floor" and many in the Beer Garden must have been thinking the same thing, as they watched those in front of the stage dance.
Day Two of All Points West was an absolute dream festival, especially when sandwiched between two rainy, muddy days. The weather proved to be magnificent; a summer day where dreams are born and wishes granted. The Arctic Monkeys couldn't have asked for a more beautiful day, and the crowd in attendance of this act couldn't have asked for a better band.
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