Song Stories: Arctic Monkeys: Body Paint

Arctic Monkeys are a band known for constantly evolving their sound, never afraid to stand still. Not wanting to trend on old ground. This is what makes them one of the most iconic bands of the 21st Century. 'Body Paint' is one of the bands standout tracks. Especially from recent records.

A standout track from their 2022 album 'The Car', it embodies this evolution in a lush and cinematic style that intertwines sultry narratives with delicate instrumentation. At its core, “Body Paint” paints a picture of emotional manipulation and self-deception. Lyrically, the song reads like a confession wrapped in ambiguity. The “body paint” itself acts as a metaphor for concealing one’s true self, a layer that covers the raw, vulnerable emotions beneath. Alex Turner

It is also in a way autobiographical, with Turner talking about himself. He has changed a lot since the bands debut in 2006. He and the band have changed, a lot, but in many ways they have also remained the same. 

There’s a sense of theatricality in "Body Paint", a quality that Arctic Monkeys have always embraced, even in their more grounded early work. Songs like "Do Me a Favour" and "505" from Favourite Worst Nightmare showcased a similar flair for dramatic storytelling and emotional catharsis, albeit in a much rawer form.
"Body Paint" serves as both a continuation of this narrative complexity and a departure into more cinematic and expansive territory. Where their early albums told stories grounded in gritty realism, "Body Paint" is more abstract, more surreal, and more in line with the band’s current fascination with constructing worlds rather than simply observing them.

“Body Paint” stands as a testament to Arctic Monkeys' constant reinvention while still rooting itself in the sharp, evocative storytelling that has defined their career. It's a full band affair with each member having their moment in the sun. With a sound that draws on classic rock, orchestral pop, and even film scores, it serves as a centerpiece for The Car, a record that showcases the band’s musical maturity.

Arctic Monkeys may have shifted their sound in recent years, but they remain masters of crafting stories that resonate with our deepest emotions. The bands musicianship and unbreakable team spirit has made them the band of their generation.

The NME said it best in the review for 'The Car' " For now, though, Arctic Monkeys stand alone like the abandoned saloon on the rooftop: the last – and greatest – band of their generation still operating at their highest level."

After an album that divided the fan base, many saw 'Body Paint' as a return to form, I'd be inclined to agree.

Thank you for reading x