July 29, 2009 8:52

Josh Homme reveals why he worked with Arctic Monkeys

Plus 'Humbug' producer reveals album's 'weird' new direction

Photo Gallery: Arctic Monkeys

Josh Homme has revealed that he wanted to work with Arctic Monkeys after falling in love with their lyrics.

The Queens Of The Stone Age frontman co-produced the Sheffield band's third album 'Humbug', even recording some parts with the band out in the Mojave Desert in California.

Speaking about why he opted to produce a band Homme told the US edition of GQ that it was frontman Alex Turner's words that first got his attention.

"I was sucked in at first by the lyrics. Alex sounded like a rare poet playing music – he has a special gift for the gab," explained Homme, who then singled out Arctic Monkeys' Matt Helders as "one of the best drummers in rock 'n' roll".

Speaking about the record the producer explained that 'Humbug' – released on August 24 – sees the Sheffield band experimenting.

"This is the record where they get weird, grow up and trip out," he declared.

Meanhwile Homme's co-producer, Simian Mobile Disco, suggested the album would split fans.

"It'll definitely surprise people, especially people who are familiar with things like ['I Bet That You Would Look Good On The] 'Dancefloor' and stuff like that, [they] might be quite taken aback," he told Radio 1's Newsbeat.

"They’re progressing and moving forward trying to change, push themselves and push their audience which I think is rare in a lot of bands today. They’ve just got more relaxed with themselves - they’re comfortable doing what they’re doing. "