Quick Read
- Arctic Monkeys released ‘Opening Night,’ their first new song since 2022.
- The track is part of the ‘HELP(2)’ charity compilation benefiting War Child.
- Proceeds will support children affected by conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, Yemen, and Sudan.
- The album features artists like Pulp, Beck, Depeche Mode, Olivia Rodrigo, and Fontaines D.C.
- ‘HELP(2)’ was recorded at Abbey Road Studios and is due for release on March 6.
Sheffield’s acclaimed rock band Arctic Monkeys have released ‘Opening Night,’ their first new track since their 2022 album ‘The Car,’ as part of the star-studded HELP(2) compilation benefiting War Child. This crucial initiative aims to address the escalating crisis of children impacted by global conflicts, marking a significant return for the band to new material while supporting an urgent humanitarian cause. The compilation, set for release on March 6, unites a diverse array of artists from across generations, echoing the spirit of the original 1995 Help album that raised substantial funds for children affected by the Bosnian War.
A Timely Return to the Studio for a Global Cause
The release of ‘Opening Night’ marks a notable moment for Arctic Monkeys, a band celebrated for its consistent evolution and lyrical prowess over two decades. Their involvement in HELP(2) underscores a commitment to social responsibility, aligning their creative output with a pressing global need. The track was recorded at the iconic Abbey Road Studios in November, under the experienced eye of James Ford, a long-time producer for the band who has overseen nearly all of their albums. Ford expressed the profound impact of working on the project, stating, “The original Help meant a lot to me and to have the opportunity, given the current news cycle, to help galvanise our music community into doing something as unarguably positive as helping children in war zones seemed like a no-brainer.” This sentiment highlights the immediate relevance and necessity of such an endeavor in today’s turbulent world.
War Child, the beneficiary charity, estimates a stark increase in the number of children affected by war globally. When the original Help compilation was released in 1995, approximately one in ten children worldwide were impacted by conflict. Today, that devastating figure has surged to one in five, affecting around 520 million children. These numbers paint a grim picture, emphasizing the critical need for continued support and intervention from organizations like War Child, which provide essential aid, protection, and education to children in war-torn regions. Arctic Monkeys articulated their pride in supporting this vital work, hoping the record will “make a positive difference to the lives of children affected by war.”
HELP(2): A Legacy of Compassion and Collaboration
The HELP(2) compilation is conceived as a spiritual successor to War Child’s seminal 1995 album, Help. That original project famously brought together an unprecedented collection of A-list talent, including Radiohead, Blur, Sinéad O’Connor, and the supergroup Smokin’ Mojo Filters (featuring Paul McCartney, Noel Gallagher, and Paul Weller), raising £1.2 million for children caught in the Bosnian conflict. The new iteration mirrors this ambitious approach, assembling a similarly star-studded lineup that bridges generational divides in music.
Alongside Arctic Monkeys, the HELP(2) roster features alumni from the 1995 album, such as Portishead’s Beth Gibbons and Blur’s Damon Albarn and Graham Coxon. They are joined by other music legends like Pulp, Beck, and Depeche Mode, signaling a continued commitment from established artists to humanitarian causes. The compilation also embraces a host of successful younger musicians, ensuring its appeal and reach extend to contemporary audiences. Noteworthy names include Olivia Rodrigo, Fontaines D.C., Cameron Winter, Wet Leg, and Sampha, reflecting a vibrant cross-section of today’s music landscape. The collective power of these artists provides a formidable platform for War Child to amplify its message and generate significant financial support.
Beyond musical contributions, the project boasts the creative direction of Oscar-nominated filmmaker Jonathan Glazer, known for his work on The Zone of Interest. Glazer’s involvement extends to a deeply personal level, as he worked with children in war zones across Ukraine, Gaza, Yemen, and Sudan to help them create their own films. He also recruited children in the UK to document the making of the project, fostering a direct connection between those affected by conflict and the broader global community. This multi-faceted approach ensures that the compilation is not merely a collection of songs but a comprehensive artistic statement on the human cost of war.
The Enduring Power of Music for Change
The release of HELP(2) comes at a poignant time for Arctic Monkeys, whose groundbreaking debut album, Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not, celebrates its 20th anniversary this week. This milestone serves as a powerful reminder of the band’s enduring influence and their journey from indie darlings to global rock icons. Their decision to mark this period with a charity release underscores a maturity and awareness that resonates deeply with their fan base and the wider music community.
The compilation’s tracklist itself is a testament to the breadth of talent involved, offering a rich tapestry of sounds and styles. From the Arctic Monkeys’ opening track to contributions like Damon Albarn, Grian Chatten & Kae Tempest’s “Flags,” Pulp’s “Begging for Change,” and Olivia Rodrigo’s “The Book of Love,” the album promises a diverse listening experience. Other notable contributions include Black Country, New Road, The Last Dinner Party, King Krule, Depeche Mode, Ezra Collective & Greentea Peng, Arlo Parks, English Teacher & Graham Coxon, Beabadoobee, Big Thief, Foals, Bat For Lashes, and Anna Calvi among others. This extensive lineup not only guarantees a compelling musical journey but also maximizes the potential for fundraising, drawing in listeners from various fan bases.
HELP(2) is more than just an album; it is a collective act of empathy and solidarity. It leverages the universal language of music to draw attention to the plight of children in conflict zones and to generate tangible support for War Child’s life-saving programs. The project serves as a powerful reminder that even amidst global turmoil, the artistic community continues to find ways to unite and advocate for those most vulnerable.
The sustained commitment of prominent artists and producers, from the 1995 original to the current HELP(2) compilation, demonstrates the enduring belief in music’s capacity to galvanize public attention and resources for humanitarian causes, highlighting a consistent thread of social consciousness within the global music industry despite evolving geopolitical landscapes.