User Score
Universal acclaim- based on 732 Ratings
User score distribution:
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Positive: 668 out of 732
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Mixed: 22 out of 732
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Negative: 42 out of 732
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Sep 26, 2017
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Feb 23, 2013The Strokes first album Is This It is like something out of the rock heavens. Just clocking in at a little over half an hour, the songs are catchy and show us what a great and talented band this is. Julian Casablanca is such a hip, cool guy. And his voice is simply amazing. All In All, Is This It is a wonderful album that needs to be heard several times. A-
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Feb 19, 2021
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Oct 30, 2018With their charming awkwardness and direct-and-straight sound, it's understandable why Strokes were called "saviors of rock". Not for technical in their instruments, but for their Rock n' roll spirit putting a smile in our faces with a simple but cool music, as a few bands in its time (we're talking about 2001) and nowadays does it.
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Nov 15, 2011The beggining of this century brought this pearl that revived indie-rock again. We see the genious Julian Casablancas working with power songs, lyrics, and even better stylish for the rock of this time. The indie bands should get more along with this kind of rock, one of the bests. Marvelous.
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Apr 15, 2020This album played a large part in the revival of indie rock and there is no way someone can understate its importance. Is This It? has withstood the test of time and remains one of the best albums the genre has to offer.
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Aug 5, 2014
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Sep 7, 2010The Strokes may not have been able to really follow up this wonderful debut, but thats not a terrible thing. Ensuing efforts have been nice but inferior; Is This It is where the boys could do no wrong.
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Aug 9, 2011Forgetting all the hype, Jules, Nikolai, Fab, Albert and Nick did start a new age in rock. Every Indy band of the past decade can owe their success to this album. 11 simple short songs. All pure garage rock. This album is incredible
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Apr 1, 2020Every song is great. New York City Cops and Last Nite are my personal favourites
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Feb 25, 2023A very solid album, it will definitely grow on me as I keep listening to the tracks!
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May 5, 2011One of my all time favorite albums and one of the reasons for my giant appreciation and fascination for music. Its sheer simplicity and charismatic take on rock just astonishes me. Compelling and fun lyrics, fantastic composition, great production and it truly feels like it's an album that time traveled from the 1970's.
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Feb 7, 2012Love this album, so catchy, one of the best rock albums ever but that's what it is, a rock album, an album about youth and they have captured that essence incredibly.
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May 15, 2015Simply the greatest album of all time. Not one song is a mere filler, not one song is forgettable. Every little tune in this thing is a jem, even the lesser known ones like Soma or When it Started.
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May 22, 2014
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Jul 22, 2014This album it's maybe the most influential album of the 2000's. It's unforgettable, great and classic. Every song it's a classic on it's own. The best debut album since Oasis' "Definitely Maybe".
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Jan 3, 2018
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Jul 13, 2011Yes, The Strokes are impressive and superb. Great quality rock is here, the voice is outstanding . Marked the history and changed and improved the classic genre .
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Jun 12, 2011Without a doubt, probably the best album of the decade. In one word : flawless. Simple and complex at the same time, only the Strokes can do this. Unforgettable lyrics and melodies.
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Mar 26, 2011The only bad thing that could possibly be said about this album is that it's fairly formulaic, with the same verse-bridge-chorus-verse-bridge-chorus-bridge-chorus etc for most of the songs.
But that doesn't stop them being great songs on a great album. There's no filler here.
The definitive indie rock album -
Jan 28, 2018The best album of the 2000's no questions asked. The simplistic rock and roll vibe of the whole album really brings nostalgia onto all who listen, even those who weren't old enough to remember when the album was released. Is This It is the best rock album released in the 21st century, and I doubt any band will ever top this phenomenal album.
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Jun 14, 2022Great debut. This is an album that has a lot of repeat value. One of the best of the decade. Highlights: "Hard to Explain", "Last Nite", "Soma". Couldn't have asked for a better debut.
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Nov 6, 2011A fantastic album. This is a good enjoyable rock album, the best of The Strokes. It's not completely groundbreaking, but listening to this album is well worth it, from the opening track "Is This It", to the ending track "Take It Or Leave It", you will not be disappointed, unless you think The Strokes are some sort of legends.
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Jan 30, 2012Awesome album and a must any for any music fan.
Favorite tracks: Hard to Explain, someday, trying your luck, the modern age, last nite.
Also, its a shame new york city cops had to be removed from the US release, although WHEN IT STARTED is a decent track, NYC is much more entertaining. -
Nov 17, 2014
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Sep 11, 2015
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Sep 12, 2017
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Mar 6, 2018
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Mar 28, 2022Classic album, great sound. One of my favorite rock albums. There are a few misses, but it's still great.
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Sep 23, 2021Is this it is a masterpiece, simply put this album is great. Every song on this album is perfect. My favorite has to be the song "is this it". This is a must-listen.
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Aug 12, 2022The carelessness and full-sounding production had lead to "Is This It" being a joy to listen to. There is a stretch of three songs, "The Modern Age", "Soma", and "Barely Legal", which sound like pretty much one song, yet offer their own great ideas. This album embodies the organised messiness of The Strokes.
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Nov 15, 2011AMAZING! That's really all I can call this album. Every song is worth multiple listens. The highlights of this album are definitely the title song, "The Modern Age", "Barely Legal", "Alone, Together", "Last Nite" "New York City Cops", "When It Started", and "Take it or Leave it." Dedicate an hour or two to this album, and it will be pure bliss.
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Apr 6, 2020The Strokes are a band that I didn't get into until 2010, going back to Is This It was like finding out I've been missing something great my whole life.
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Jul 21, 2012The Strokes' debut album is amazing! Jules Casablanca (lead vocals) provides a natural Lo-Fi sound, which is addictive to listen to. I can't think of a single track from the album I don't thoroughly enjoy. Recommend! Favorite tracks: Hard to Explain, Take It or Leave It, Barely Legal (yet every song has its singularity and fantastic element about it)
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Oct 7, 2013"Is This It?" is any bands dream debut album. This album is flawless, bringing in a new style of indie/alt rock that's still easily recognizable. This album truly reestablished the rock genre, and every song is as catchy and tasty as the next. The Strokes debut album is a landmark.
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Jun 9, 2019Fantastic debut record by the new york band The strokes. Truly fantastic.
Minor Flawed.
Final Rating: 8.8 -
Mar 3, 2011"is this it?" is fantastic. truly a landmark album of our generation. its so nonchalant but somehow through the apathy true brilliance is found. yes each song has a similar sound, but they are not the same. additionally, why would you change up the sound when it is good to begin with
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Mar 30, 2011This is one of the MUST HAVE albums of the 00s. Too bad their latest albums isn't kicking like this. I hate the fact I have to type 150 characters right now.
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Sep 23, 2018Although the early noughties were dominated by nu-metal and post-grunge, this garage rock LP ironically (okay, maybe not so) ended up being the most storied music of that era. From the rather sunnier feeling of Someday to the somewhat brash stylings of New York City Cops, this classic LP is a must in your collection!
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Sep 4, 2021What can I say about this masterpiece? One of the best albums of the 21st century, a CLASSIC !
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Aug 11, 2022Obra maestra del rock indie el mejor album de los strokes Someday mejor cancion
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Feb 13, 2012
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Dec 23, 2012
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Feb 3, 2020“Is this it?” Brings unique rifs with light hearted tones contrasted by dark lyrics about love and heartbreak.
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Feb 23, 2011
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Jun 19, 2012
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Oct 30, 2012The album is indeed a great raw alternative rock experience. There are no weak tracks well, maybe, Trying Your Luck, for it is my least favorite but it is still a solid good album. I really like the rhythm of the guitar and the charisma the band gives. The lyrics are simply about observations in their lives but still are great because it is written well into the songs.
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Jul 10, 2013
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Mar 16, 2014
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Aug 7, 2015Kind of defines Garage rock. So catchy and such a great look at life in the city. The lyrics are clever and ring true on all subjects. Julian Casablancas may not have the best voice, but it was made for this album.
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Jul 22, 2023Is this it made a generation, every song understands how a teenage can feel, with solid rock and a great sound, influence a lot of artists in this new era, one, of the best alternative albums of all time, simply music.
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bobbybNov 3, 2001absolutely incredible
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JeremyGJan 4, 2004A band confident enough to bask in the hype lavished upon them, and ballsy enough to actually live up to ridiculous expectations. Taut, fast, catchy rock songs fill this album. Easily enjoyable, even after multiple listens.
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JeffDFeb 4, 2005Please, Julian, stop it. Do you use the vocal processor when ordering Starbucks or dismissing groupies? Monotonous, repetitive, derivative...there's just no real emotion on this disc. Sure, they can play...but there's nothing on here that I really want to hear over and over, nothing that sticks in my head. Completely overhyped.
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SAVAGETOASTAug 4, 2006In my opinion the best albums since 2000 are 1. Is This It? by The Strokes 2. Kid A by Radiohead 3. The Moon & Antarctica by Modest Mouse 4. Franz Ferdinand by Franz Ferdinand 5. Turn On The Bright Lights by Interpol
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NancyM.Nov 14, 2001best album of 2001 hot rocker boys
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SalC.Oct 15, 2001The simple fact is that the best songs on the record are the (5) that had already been released on their (2) Rough Trade singles. As I had both them both months ago, the rest was dissapointing. If you have neither single, but my rating to an (8).
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JerryA.Oct 2, 2001One of the best albums of all time. I wouldn't be surprised if this kicks off the next wave of good music in the mainstream. It has that landmark feel..like Nevermind 10 years ago.
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AaronL.Oct 7, 2002I can't figure it out. I've read the glowing reviews and listened to the disc many times, and I just can't understand the fuss. Although they have their good moments, I'm supposed to believe that these guys are the new gods of rock 'n roll? I don't think so. In either case, there is a lot riding on their next release - glad it's not me that has to do it!
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EdithF.Feb 19, 2002I'm not not saying this as an obsessive idiot, I'm saying it as an opinionated music-lover. This is an excellent album which deserves all of the good reviews it gets. Not because it's bringing back old trends or whatever critics are labeling them as, just because it's damn good music and these guys have a load of talent.
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AlD.Aug 27, 2002A+++
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TrixieJan 10, 2003loved it, totally different and different from what's out there right now
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ElliottJan 14, 2006Enough time has passed to solidify this as one of the greatest rock albums ever made.
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FletcherbJan 5, 2006this is one of the most deeply rewarding discs ever made. 10 just isn't enough.
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HendraSJun 4, 2006salute for the strokes!!!! I gave you 10 pts for all your songs.
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mistereelsOct 14, 2001Rock music like old people said it used to be, a classic debut album with more hooks than an amputee convention.
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AlexF.Oct 14, 2001Most hyped band this year. Their music is ok but quite insubstantial. VU did this much better more than 30 years ago.
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AlexF.Oct 14, 2001Most hyped band this year. Their music is ok but quite insubstantial. VU did this much better more than 30 years ago.
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NickK.Oct 17, 2001This album kicks like the Stones during the Exile on Mainstreet era. It leaves every other rock album of the year seem tame.
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SuzanneDec 3, 2001If I could give this album an even higher rating I would. It's totally got me obsessed. It made me go see them play just a week after i bought the thing, and they were even more amazing live. This is now my favorite band. Trust me this is good music.
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JayR.Oct 23, 2001Julian Casablancas does such a phenomenal job of channeling the spirit of Lou Reed circa 1967. I don't think album would have been all that great if the The Strokes were from Duluth, MN. But by being New Yorkers they revive that old New York garage band sound earnestly. These song have a definite charisma that pop music has been lacking in a long time. Good things will come from this album.
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SiA.Sep 27, 2001This has to be the best album of the year, by lightyears
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BrettB.Jan 13, 2002Finally Rock and Roll gets a much needed kick in the ass.
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RobertS.Jan 8, 2002great music. some of the best stuff i have heard in a while. just keep it comming
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MikeC.Mar 11, 2002Finally a real rock group. with all the crap that is out ,this is cool.
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[Anonymous]Jun 30, 2002worst retro shit ever. perfect for nme readers
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AndrewISep 16, 2002Very good album for those too young to know how recycled it is.
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RyanT.Sep 28, 2002When I first heard the album I was not very impressed. But once you listen for a while you'll realize this is a great simple rock record and one of the best albums of the year.
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BethOct 6, 2003
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ReneTApr 30, 2003you know what? if you don't like THE STROKES then, FUCK YOU!!! These guys will rock forever!!!
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davemJun 6, 2003This album gets better with each listening, unlike the ridiculously overhyped White Stripes album. The first few times you hear it may not be overly impressive but it will grow on you.
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JackWAug 28, 2003
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TomHAug 6, 2003Mediocre at best. So simple it's sickening, but no horrible in it's own right
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andiehJan 22, 2004I Love This CD... J...ust, Just Great!
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JoannelAug 7, 2004this is brilliant it makes you laugh and dance and fell like a total fukcing idiot... if ANYONE would give it less than a 9 u are fucking crazy..( and they are the ebst lookign band by FAR
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TonyGDec 3, 2005Everybody's been talking in extremes about this album, but to me, it simply did the job. It stuck to the bare-knuckled essentials of rock, created raw emotion and energy from simplistic music, and provided an enjoyable thirty minutes. Definately nothing incredible, but definately nothing terrible.
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BooneJul 23, 2005
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cwkAug 11, 2005pretty much garbage. People who think this is "rock" have never heard rock, apparently. the guy who said "almost emotionless" is right. These guys are total frauds and a glut of similar bands are the reason I can hardly listen to rock today. Thankfully there are still a handful of creative, original artists out there.
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FredthefriendAug 13, 2005absolutely genius music. my god- how can you NOT see this as rock? more importantly so, how can you not at least give it credit for not being a band that sounds as homogenized as just about every other rock album out there?
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macmnJan 15, 2006this album is simply amazing. the fast pace style keeps you wanting more
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S.GoldJan 3, 2006Boring, same song and style over and over. How can people call this interesting?
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joshJan 5, 2006The strokes are the greatest band to come out of any musice scene/genre in the past 15 years. Seminal.
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LeahKFeb 12, 2006Many people said this was a bad second album, but the songs were catchy and full of the rock n roll sound i was looking for. kickass album.
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NiallCApr 8, 2006Amazing debut. One of the greatest albums ever.
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samfMay 4, 2006I've had this album for almost a year, and I'm still waiting for the time that I go more than a couple days without a listen.
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sandiehMay 8, 2006Perfect.
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DavidJun 11, 2006Thank Bob this terrible trend is over. Rock revival? Whatever.
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MarshManJul 17, 2006amazing..... it's almost perfect pop-rock.
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AnnaH.Nov 11, 2001Very original I love this band.
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RogerE.Nov 2, 2001I don't mind if VU, Television, The Cars or Stooges did this more than 25 years ago. We're in 2001 and a few bands right now sound as fresh, arrogant, mellodicaly stunning and vital like Casablancas and pals. ¿Hey! check out The Soudtrack of Our Lives and tell me Pink Floyd did this 30 years ago. ¿So what?
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Awards & Rankings
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Apr 24, 2013Simply put, Strokes have every quality rock'n'roll requires from its finest exponents and Is This It is where they come together.
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Able to make the timeworn themes of sex, drugs, and rock & roll and the basic guitars-drum-bass lineup seem new and vital again, the Strokes may or may not be completely arty and calculated, but that doesn't prevent Is This It? from being an exciting, compulsively listenable debut...
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Their album is little more than thirty minutes and eleven versions of the same song. But damn if that one song isn't a good one.