The atmosphere of a live gig is never as fresh as when you sweat in the pit. But in these times of lockdown, it is through live albums that we have to let off steam, and relive the vibrant ambiance of gigs past. And so it is good news that Alex Turner's gang have chosen this moment to release one. In 2018, the Arctic Monkeys begin a long tour to promote the spring release of Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino, a fabulous swerve towards French kinetic sensuality, and away from rock anthems hammered by Matt Helders' drums. This live performance was filmed at the Royal Albert Hall in London, and the profits were donated to War Child UK, as are the proceeds from the release of the album. The concert looks back over the band's entire discography: the classics from their period of greatest success – the first three albums – but also darker sounds with Humbug, pop with Suck It and See and their return to grace, with AM. But Alex Turner is never as good a crooner as he is when it comes to new material. If RU Mine?, which closes these twenty tracks, is worth its weight in gold, Star Treatment and One Point Perspective remain Arctic diamonds in the rough, and have yet to lose their sheen. Salutary. © Charlotte Saintoin/Qobuz