Arctic Monkeys have unveiled their latest single, “Opening Night,” marking their first new release in four years. This track will feature on the charity album “Help(2)” by War Child, aimed at supporting children impacted by conflict.
Background of “Help(2)” Album
Rumors of this album circulated at the beginning of the month with teasers from War Child Records. They hinted at a collaborative effort involving prominent artists including Arctic Monkeys, Damon Albarn, and others. The album, produced by James Ford, was recorded at Abbey Road Studios in November 2025.
Album Details
- Title: Help(2)
- Release Date: March 6, 2026
- Funding Goal: Supports mental health initiatives for children affected by war.
This record draws inspiration from the 1995 “HELP” album, which featured artists like Oasis and Blur, raising over £1.25 million and selling more than 700,000 copies.
Contributing Artists
- Anna Calvi
- Arlo Parks
- Arooj Aftab
- Beck
- Depeche Mode
- Olivia Rodrigo
- The Smiths’ Johnny Marr
- Fontaines D.C.
- And many more
Collaborative Efforts
Many tracks will showcase unique collaborations among artists. For instance, Damon Albarn teamed up with Johnny Marr and Kae Tempest. Similarly, Olivia Rodrigo collaborated with Graham Coxon on a cover of “The Book of Love.”
The Urgency of War Child’s Mission
The original “HELP” album’s impact resonated deeply, and today, nearly one in five children globally are affected by war. War Child emphasized their mission is more critical than ever, with escalating conflicts in regions like Palestine and Ukraine.
Rich Clarke, Head of Music at War Child UK, expressed gratitude for the diverse group of artists rallying for this cause. He highlighted “Help(2)” as a powerful illustration of collective action within the music community.
Creative Direction
Academy Award-winning filmmaker Jonathan Glazer served as the creative director for “Help(2).” The concept, “By Children, For Children,” involved children filming the recording process, providing a unique lens into the artists’ work.
Tracklist Highlights
| Artist | Track |
|---|---|
| Arctic Monkeys | Opening Night |
| Damon Albarn, Grian Chatten, Johnny Marr & Kae Tempest | Flags |
| Depeche Mode | Universal Soldier |
| Fontaines D.C. | Black Boys On Mopeds |
| Wet Leg | Obvious |
This isn’t the first time Arctic Monkeys have supported War Child. Their charity performance at the Royal Albert Hall in 2018 contributed significantly to the cause. With the upcoming release of “Help(2),” they continue to advocate for vulnerable children facing adversity due to armed conflict.
