The Arctic Monkeys released “Opening Night,” their first new track since 2022, as the lead single for the upcoming charity compilation HELP(2). The album serves as a spiritual successor to the landmark 1995 Help record, which raised £1.25 million for children in Bosnia. Produced by James Ford and recorded at Abbey Road Studios, the new project aims to support the 520 million children currently living in conflict zones, a figure that has doubled since the original release.
‘Opening Night’. Out now.
Taken from the upcoming collaborative album ‘HELP(2)’ out 6th March 2026. Arctic Monkeys are proud to support the invaluable work War Child do. All proceeds support @WarChildUK.https://t.co/DOgKzH26Qp pic.twitter.com/L7TtRtCKX4
— Arctic Monkeys (@ArcticMonkeys) January 22, 2026
The 23-track compilation, set for release on March 6, 2026, features an extraordinary lineup of global stars and unique collaborations. Highlights include Olivia Rodrigo covering The Magnetic Fields’ “The Book of Love,” Depeche Mode performing “Universal Soldier,” and a “supergroup” featuring Damon Albarn, Grian Chatten, and Kae Tempest. Filmmaker Jonathan Glazer oversaw the project’s creative direction, giving cameras to children in conflict zones like Ukraine, Gaza, and Sudan to document their own stories alongside the recording sessions.
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Arctic Monkeys, whose debut album celebrates its 20th anniversary this week, stated they are “proud to support the invaluable work” of War Child. Producer James Ford described the recording process as “life-affirming” against a backdrop of global instability. All proceeds from the record will fund War Child UK’s emergency aid, education, and mental health programs. Pre-orders are currently available across digital platforms and limited edition vinyl.
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