Arctic Monkeys have returned with 'Opening Night', a subtle and cinematic track for the charity album 'Help(2)' by War Child. The release coincides with the 20th anniversary of their debut album. Drummer Matt Helders discussed the band's reunion for the cause in an interview.
Arctic Monkeys surprised fans on January 22, 2026, with 'Opening Night', their first new material since the 2022 album 'The Car'. The song leads the tracklist for 'Help(2)', a charity compilation executive produced by longtime collaborator James Ford and set for release on March 6, 2026, via War Child Records. The album features artists including Damon Albarn, English Teacher, Young Fathers, Fontaines D.C., Depeche Mode, Foals, Olivia Rodrigo, Pulp, The Last Dinner Party, and Wet Leg.
In an interview with Zane Lowe on Apple Music, drummer Matt Helders explained the band's motivation: "We had the itch to do something together again." He emphasized focusing on the charity rather than speculation about the band's future. "There’s always going to be talk about it like, ‘What does it mean for the band?’ We want it to just be for these people and for this," Helders said. The group reconvened effortlessly, with Helders noting, "Sometimes we might not see each other for six months, but when we do it’s like we were never apart."
The track draws from unused ideas developed over the years, combined with new elements and produced with Loren Humphrey. Helders highlighted the band's growth: "There’s some of this stuff that we couldn’t have done like 10 or 15 years ago. We’re still getting better at doing stuff."
This release marks the 20th anniversary of Arctic Monkeys' debut 'Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not', issued on January 23, 2006. The album sold 360,000 copies in its first week, becoming the fastest-selling debut in British history, and earned multiple awards including the Mercury Prize and a BRIT for Best British Album.
War Child supports children affected by conflicts in areas like Palestine, Ukraine, Sudan, and Syria. The original 'Help' album from 1995 raised over £1.25 million. NME gave 'Opening Night' four stars, praising it as a strong contribution regardless of the band's future.
