'Crying Lightning' is a standout track from the Arctic Monkeys' third studio album, 'Humbug', which was released on August 24, 2009. The song was produced by Josh Homme, the frontman of Queens of the Stone Age, which marked a noticeable shift in the band's sound toward a darker and more complex aesthetic. The single was released on August 17, 2009, serving as the lead single for the album. Musically, the track features a blend of heavy guitar riffs, intricate bass lines, and Alex Turner's distinctive vocals, showcasing the band's evolution from their earlier indie rock roots to a more nuanced and layered sound that incorporates elements of psychedelia and desert rock.
The lyrics of 'Crying Lightning' delve into themes of unrequited love, emotional turmoil, and the complexities of relationships. Turner crafts vivid imagery with lines like "I’ve been wondering whether you’d come back, and if you would, would you think of me?" The song's narrative captures the feeling of longing and uncertainty, as the protagonist grapples with his feelings for someone who seems elusive and capricious. The metaphor of "crying lightning" suggests a mix of intense emotion and unpredictability, reflecting the tumultuous nature of the relationship. The balance of confidence and vulnerability in the lyrics allows listeners to relate to the experience of navigating love's uncertainties.