Monkeys go ape for Oxfam

Arctic Monkeys will release the physical version of their new single Crying Lightningexclusively through Oxfam charity shops in the UK and Ireland next week. The song is the first to be taken from the Sheffield band's forthcoming third album Humbug, and limited-edition 7" copies will go on sale at €3.99 from next Friday. It will also feature a cover of Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds' Red Right Hand.

Last year, Oxfam Ireland raised €300,000 through sales of music alone, generating funds to provide aid to disadvantaged African nations. Arctic Monkeys fans are also being encouraged to donate any unwanted albums or singles to the shop when they pick up their copy of the single.

Laurence Bell, founder of the band’s London-based label Domino Records, said: “It’s a delight to be working together on this project . . . As well as raising some money for a great cause, we are able to get vinyl back on to the nation’s high streets, which feels good.”