The Arctic Monkeys' first record could become the fastest-selling debut rock album since records began, according to experts.
The band release 'Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not' on Monday (January 23). Retailer HMV claim that their pre-oders suggest demand is the highest for any debut rock act since the release of Oasis' 'Definitely Maybe' in August 1994.
The album could sell up to 200,000 in its first week. Chart expert Gennaro Castaldo said: "We might be entering the Chinese Year of the dog, but as far as the Music Industry is concerned 2006 is very much the 'year of the monkey'. We haven't seen this level of excitement for a new artist since the Britpop-heralding arrival of Oasis more than 10 years ago.
"There has been a great vibe around the Arctic Monkeys for quite a few months now, but it usually takes much longer for a band to develop mainstream appeal and the commercial success that comes with it. The Arctic Monkeys seem to have managed this in just one leap - it's amazing how much impact they have had in such a short time."
The band's second single, 'When the Sun Goes Down', looks set to go to Number One this Sunday (January 22).