Arctic Monkeys love MC Hammer?

04/19/2007 3:00 PM, Yahoo! Music
Dotmusic

Arctic Monkeys have cited Ricky Martin, Charlie & The Chocolate Factory, and MC Hammer as key influences on their new album.

The Sheffield sensations revealed the bizarre roll-call of inspirations in a new interview, as they prepare to release Favourite Worst Nightmare.

Singer Alex Turner says the group listened to "all sorts," while producer James Ford (from Simian Mobile Disco) apparently helped shape the record with bands like New York new wave legends E.S.G.

Meanwhile, bass player Nick O'Malley said wearing a pair of trousers in the style of MC Hammer also helped get the record moving.

He explained: "If you're gonna try and create a good atmosphere, why not wear some MC Hammer parachute trousers? Comfort first, of course, with a bonus aesthetic...it's a guilty pleasure of ours."

Favourite Worst Nightmare, the follow-up to Arctic Monkeys' debut Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not, is released next Tuesday.