It was Arctic Monkeys' first concert in Singapore, but fans of the band certainly made it feel like they were returning to The Little Red Dot after a long time.

Presented by Lushington Entertainments, fans were treated to a rock extravaganza on the last day of February from the acclaimed British rock band as they performed a spectacular sold-out show at the Singapore Indoor Stadium — the first stop that kicks off the rest of their 2023 Asia Tour. For all the anticipation that fans had, waiting to finally welcome Alex Turner (vocals), Jamie Cook (guitar), Nick O'Malley (bass), and Matt Helders (drums) to Singapore, the long wait certainly paid off by how the concert turned out that night.

A first glance at the stage’s setup instantly exuded unmistakable vibes foretelling that it was going to be a nostalgic soundtrip. As fans were to witness later on, the band members’ immaculate styling and concert fits, as well as the videos appearing on the big screens, had a rather vintage-looking feel to them as well. It was a setup that also reminded one of a music festival setting (but indoors) with its bright, scintillating lights and no extended stages so that fans could get up close with the artists as they played their lively rock music sets.

As with any concert, an integral part of the overall experience comes from the fans. We find ourselves in a sea of monochrome with fans dressed mostly in a chic, dark colour palette with visible pops of colour in various places — a likely reflection of the band’s sleek and versatile image. The palpable excitement and love that fans had for the band were also exceptionally evident. 

Though the concert was slightly delayed, it gave fans just the extra time needed for them to fully get their excitement up and running. When we finally set eyes on the band members’ recognisable silhouettes as they took to the stage to commence the show with ‘Sculptures Of Anything Goes’, it was enough to garner explosive cheers and attention. 

Right from the second song ‘Brianstorm’, a wild, adrenaline-pumping track, fans in the designated seating zones were already standing up and passionately singing along (and screaming) to the songs, showcasing astounding energy and loyalty to the band that didn’t once halt throughout the entire concert.

This was the kind of energy that always carried over to the performing artists. As audiences, we can attest to the enjoyment that the band members have while performing from their various interactions with each other — the type of camaraderie and rapport that is only possible after over two decades of making music and performing together. There were no fancy theatrics but the seasoned musicians didn’t need them to prove their calibre as artists, not once during the entire show that lasted almost two hours. As a result, fans could immerse themselves in the band’s performances and enjoy their music purely for what it is. 

The sultry, and unmistakable electric guitar strums which signaled the beginning of one of the band’s most popular singles, ‘Do I Wanna Know,’ were met with equally fervent responses from the fans as they knew the lyrics (and even the backing instrumental) inside out. Audiences were, to put it simply, loud and fittingly so as the band performed arguably one of the most beloved and well-known tracks off their 2013 AM album.

Throughout the entire show, the lighting in the stadium was dim, save for the bright lights that focused solely on the band. However, audiences were visibly awestruck when their surroundings were illuminated with a spinning disco ball installation after the band’s performance of ‘There’d Better Be A Mirrorball’ — a poetic touch that ties back to the concert’s vintage theme as it resembled one you’d find in the middle of the dance floor at old-school dances. 

Along with immersive performances from the band, we cannot talk about Arctic Monkeys without mentioning the distinct voice of the band’s frontman, Alex Turner. Known for his controlled, orotund vocals that set him apart from other rock vocalists, the singer showcased his own unique singing flair during the concert on top of expertly playing the guitar.

For fans of the band who’ve been around for a while, classic favourites like ‘I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor’, ‘Teddy Picker’, 'Cornerstone,' and ‘Crying Lightning’ were welcome throwbacks. It is safe to say that their setlist for the night, comprising songs from chart-topping albums, made for a surreal fan experience as it brought once distant memories back to life and waves of nostalgia with every song. 

At the same time, despite growth and evolution in their sound over the years, it was apparent that Arctic Monkeys constantly remain true to their rock band roots. 

If there ever was an all-encompassing way to describe their brand of music, personally it would have to be that it is an experience you need to be a part of firsthand. If the concert was any indicator, fans of rock music should witness the band live at least once in their lives no matter if you are a long-time fan or a newcomer who’s just beginning to discover the works of the talented rock band. 

Arctic Monkeys’ inaugural concert in Singapore seemed almost like a fever dream. That night, fans went on a journey through thought-provoking lyrics and also bore witness to how the band seamlessly pulled out all the stops to deliver performances that were unlikely to be forgotten in a long time. 

Arctic Monkeys Asia Tour 2023 in Singapore setlist:

1. Sculptures Of Anything Goes
2. Brianstorm
3. Snap Out Of It
4. Crying Lightning
5. Don’t Sit Down ‘Cause I’ve Moved Your Chair
6. Potion Approaching
7. Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High?
8. Four Out of Five (new arrangement)
9. Arabella
10. Pretty Visitors
11. Cornerstone
12. Do I Wanna Know?
13. Do Me a Favour 
14. One Point Perspective
15. Teddy Picker
16. From The Ritz To The Rubble
17. I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor
18. Body Paint
19. There’d Better Be A Mirrorball 
20. 505 (new arrangement)
21. R U Mine?