Is Is This It a good place to start with The Strokes?

Yes, Is This It is recommended as a starting point for new The Strokes listeners. Raw, melodic garage rock meets sharp lyrical wit, crafting a sound that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. Released on July 29, 2001, 'Is This It' marked The Strokes' debut album. At this point, they were emerging from the New York City music scene, quickly gaining attention for their fresh take on rock after years of post-grunge dominance. This album established them as front-runners of the early 2000s garage rock revival.

Who is Is This It for?

Is This It works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, short, immersive listening sessions and catchy hooks and melodies.

How many songs are on Is This It?

Is This It has 11 tracks, running approximately 35 minutes.

Is This It

The Strokes · 2001

35 min · 11 tracks · indie rock

Raw, melodic garage rock meets sharp lyrical wit, crafting a sound that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Is This It Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Last Nite — This track encapsulates the band's signature sound with its infectious guitar riff and relatable lyrics about disillusionment, serving as an anthem for a generation.
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Hard to Explain — With its driving rhythm and clever lyricism, this song showcases the band's ability to blend urgency with introspection, highlighting their unique approach to songwriting.
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Someday — 'Someday' stands out for its nostalgic feel and hopeful lyrics, reflecting a longing for clarity amidst confusion, which resonates deeply with listeners.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

72 /100

Alpine

Higher than 95% of albums we've rated

The album combines catchy riffs with clever lyrics, establishing a distinct sound that resonates well over time.

What we noticed

The first track sets a mid-tempo groove that carries through the first half of the album, while the second half introduces more varied tempos and dynamics.
Many tracks feature a prominent guitar riff that serves as the backbone for both melody and rhythm, creating a consistent sound throughout.
Lyrically, the album employs sharp, witty lines that often reflect on youth and urban life, enhancing its thematic cohesion.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 8/10

Defined its genre or moment. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady, consistent energy levels
short, immersive listening sessions
catchy hooks and melodies
easy background enjoyment

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Debut album that established The Strokes' reputation and gained significant attention.
Career context: Released on July 29, 2001, 'Is This It' marked The Strokes' debut album. At this point, they were emerging from the New York City music scene, quickly gaining attention for their fresh take on rock after years of post-grunge dominance. This album established them as front-runners of the early 2000s garage rock revival.
Stylistic neighbors: Arctic Monkeys· The Libertines· Franz Ferdinand