Room On Fire
by The Strokes
  • Record Label: RCA
  • Release Date: Oct 28, 2003
User Score
8.7

Universal acclaim- based on 330 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 305 out of 330
  2. Mixed: 14 out of 330
  3. Negative: 11 out of 330

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  1. frightopia
    Mar 10, 2023
    7
    Didn't have any major standouts, but it was still an enjoyable listen! Really no skips
  2. xqcTF
    Aug 12, 2022
    8
    After releasing "Is This It" two years prior, The Strokes had a lot to live up to. "Room On Fire", I believe, expands on the ideas shown in their debut, but with much better production. "12:51" offers a really soothing guitar harmonisation under the vocals that gives a really good vibe and is super catchy. "Under Control" has a very important drum fill that kicks off each chorus, creatingAfter releasing "Is This It" two years prior, The Strokes had a lot to live up to. "Room On Fire", I believe, expands on the ideas shown in their debut, but with much better production. "12:51" offers a really soothing guitar harmonisation under the vocals that gives a really good vibe and is super catchy. "Under Control" has a very important drum fill that kicks off each chorus, creating an amazing energy and bravado. The only negative thing I feel is that there are some tracks that aren't as good as the rest, but I still find myself enjoying.… Expand
  3. Franco853
    Aug 11, 2022
    9
    Excelente album el tercer mejor album de los strokes simplemente god
    Xdxdxd
  4. FlorisDelRey
    Jan 9, 2022
    9
    very good album, very cohesive but still a big difference between songs. overall a very good album!
  5. Mellowry
    Aug 12, 2021
    10
    Definitely one of my alltime favorite albums. It sounds much cleaner than the "garagy" Debut. Both are great albums, but I think that this is just slightly better.
  6. cheesybootyunhh
    May 30, 2021
    10
    its just as good as is this it **** you if you think im wrong its fantastic from meet me in the bathroom to there magnum opus reptillia and killer tunes like 12 51 and the end has no end arguebly there best song yes it does borrow from is this it but is just as good amazing hell yeah
  7. Chris182
    Apr 26, 2021
    5
    Room on Fire is one of the most overrated albums of the 2000s. There is not much here to come back to (besides a few good songs). The production is unbearably gritty and Julian's vocals are extremely bland and boring to listen to. Thank god the Regina Spektor song is only a bonus track because that is easily one of the worst songs for the 2000s.
    Best Songs: Reptilia, The End Has No End,    Room on Fire is one of the most overrated albums of the 2000s. There is not much here to come back to (besides a few good songs). The production is unbearably gritty and Julian's vocals are extremely bland and boring to listen to. Thank god the Regina Spektor song is only a bonus track because that is easily one of the worst songs for the 2000s.
    Best Songs: Reptilia, The End Has No End, Under Control, 12:51
    Worst Songs: I Can't Win, Automatic Stop, The Way it Is, Between Love & Hate    … Expand
  8. imthenoob
    Apr 15, 2020
    10
    I don't understand the hate for this album at all. My guess is that people expected another rehash of their first album but got disappointed that the band actually evolved since then. Which is kind of ironic because the lyrics mostly deal with these unrealistic expectations thrown upon the band after just a single album.
  9. davidpaulmesa
    Apr 6, 2020
    10
    The Strokes are a band that I didn't get into until 2010. Room on Fire was the first album I listened to, and though I see it as my least favorite of their albums, I still can't find it in me to skip it whenever I listen to it.
  10. drongodan
    Apr 1, 2020
    9
    Very good, followed a similar formula to their debut. Favourite tracks Between Love & Hate, I Cant Win
  11. mellonhead
    Oct 2, 2019
    8
    Overall a very good album, with some of The Strokes' best work [See: Reptilia, The End Had No End]. It's one of the most consistent in quality in their discography, second only to Is This It. Room on Fire doesn't really have any bad songs, but a handful stand out as being just decent or pretty good - there aren't nearly as many great songs as their debut. The songs are a littleOverall a very good album, with some of The Strokes' best work [See: Reptilia, The End Had No End]. It's one of the most consistent in quality in their discography, second only to Is This It. Room on Fire doesn't really have any bad songs, but a handful stand out as being just decent or pretty good - there aren't nearly as many great songs as their debut. The songs are a little overproduced at times and sometimes they try too hard to be catchy, but this is one that grew on me and isn't an Is This It rehash. It's even preferable to Is This It on some days, but less down-to-earth and somehow less accessible than Is This It, even though it tries much harder to be commercially accessible. Perhaps that's the biggest complaint I can make about this album - it tries too hard, but not so hard that they completely lose sight of who they are. They try to be mature, but it doesn't always make sense. This album went through one cycle with Radiohead's Neil Godrich, before the band though it was too emo and dumped those sessions. Apparently they rushed to finish the album a few weeks faster than they wanted and in the end, they felt there was some missed potential. Both prospects - a Neil Godrich produced album and a few more weeks - are intriguing and will always be question marks, but as it stands, this album is very solid and the last of the laid back teenager Strokes. It's the bridge between Is This It and First Impressions of Earth where they transition into adults, but they're not depressed yet.

    GRADE: B+/A-
    FAVORITE TRACKS: What Ever Happened?, Reptilia, 12:51, Meet Me In the Bathroom, Under Control, The End Has No End, I Can't Win
    LEAST FAVORITE TRACKS: The Way It Is    … Expand
  12. darklatinbruh
    Jun 9, 2019
    8
    Sophomore record by the NY rock band The Strokes. Its 11 songs are mostly perfect, but it was met with mixed reviews because of it was way too similar with is this it, but, honestly, who gives an actual ****

    85/100
  13. zgodula
    Mar 7, 2019
    10
    whatever happened 100
    under control 100
    meet me in the bathroom 98
    reptilia 96
    you talk way too much 95
    the end has no end 95
    automatic stop 95
    12:51 94
    i can't win 88
    the way it is 83
    between love & hate 80
  14. BiscuitBuff
    Sep 13, 2017
    9
    "Room on Fire" continues with the same sound as last album, and it does it well. Room on Fire may be called a "Is This It" twin but Julian doesn't make it boring. There are some very special moments on this album, The Strokes were on fire, Julian was on fire. The Nostalgia continues with Room On Fire, and the special strokes feeling doesn't leave. No one else but the strokes can make a"Room on Fire" continues with the same sound as last album, and it does it well. Room on Fire may be called a "Is This It" twin but Julian doesn't make it boring. There are some very special moments on this album, The Strokes were on fire, Julian was on fire. The Nostalgia continues with Room On Fire, and the special strokes feeling doesn't leave. No one else but the strokes can make a record special in this certain way.

    P.S Under Control is one the best songs of The Strokes career, and 2003.    … Expand
  15. antonijames
    Apr 14, 2017
    9
    Room on Fire is an amazing sequel album. It continues with the raw energy and beautiful melodies and lyrics that Is This It had, but expands them with a bigger kick. It's a great sounding album with tons of powerful tunes.
  16. EmmeKira
    May 15, 2015
    8
    An amazing second album for an amazing band of the 2000s. The only problem it really has is that it really suffers for being the "second LP". It's way too similar to Is This It, even though it has some slight differences: it's more moody, more tragic and at times heavier than Is This It. Probably the best way too describe it is to simply say that it perfectly reflects its title.. It's likeAn amazing second album for an amazing band of the 2000s. The only problem it really has is that it really suffers for being the "second LP". It's way too similar to Is This It, even though it has some slight differences: it's more moody, more tragic and at times heavier than Is This It. Probably the best way too describe it is to simply say that it perfectly reflects its title.. It's like The Strokes are singing Is This It, but in a Room on Fire, where everything is in pure chaos.… Expand
  17. ToffeeBoy
    Mar 25, 2015
    9
    Great album, in my opinion this is as good as 'Is this it', has some of the most memorable strokes songs to date "What Ever Happened?" "12:15" & "The End Has No End" are all great songs! the killer hit "Reptilia" has the sort of rift that only can be admired, one of my favorite albums
  18. colin8166
    Aug 13, 2013
    10
    I have never liked a album this much. Every album they make is great, but with this one they completely blew it out of the water. I'ts definitely my favorite album.
  19. Pablojr921
    Feb 28, 2013
    8
    Pretty much the same of 'Is This It' with more things to say, good but no so original.
    Some might say that is a copy of the first record, in matters of style, maybe, but its good as the first one.
  20. darkfishreviews
    Jan 20, 2013
    10
    9.5/10, but I'm being generous considering this just might be the best band of the past 20 years. It's been described as being an "identical twin" to Is This It, but come on - that's bull. Where would "Reptilia", or "12:51", or "Under Control" fit in with their debut? Most of the songs bear a resemblance, of course; after all, this is a rock band writing rock songs, not some experimental9.5/10, but I'm being generous considering this just might be the best band of the past 20 years. It's been described as being an "identical twin" to Is This It, but come on - that's bull. Where would "Reptilia", or "12:51", or "Under Control" fit in with their debut? Most of the songs bear a resemblance, of course; after all, this is a rock band writing rock songs, not some experimental outfit at liberty to implement Siberian moaning and have critics go ga-ga over it. But really, the Strokes have matured as songwriters, and it shows. Both in musicianship and production, the band has really taken a leap forward. While the rawness and straight-up-rock aspect of Is This It was its polarizing force and claim to fame, Room on Fire refines that signature Strokes sound and also dips its feet in - could it be? - SOUL (yes, you read that correctly. Listen to "Between Love and Hate" and "Under Control" to see for yourself), as well as a more sad but equally melodic sound ("Automatic Stop", "The End Has No End"). Lead guitarist Nick Valensi pumps out some insane solos and lead parts ("Reptilia", etc.) that adds a whole new dynamic to the album, and Casablancas' vocals accompany this intensity but still retain their detachment. "Meet Me in the Bathroom" and "I Can't Win" are really the only songs that feel like they could truly belong to Is This It, but 2/11 ain't bad - especially when that album was one of the best debuts of the past 10 years. The only blunder on Room on Fire is "The Way It Is", in which mediocre songwriting is trying to be counteracted with pure volume. But one song doesn't really take much away from this experience; Room on Fire is an incredible follow-up to arguably the best debut of the 2000s, and is overlooked relative to its greatness more than any other album I've heard. Come on, the NYC "Saviors of Rock" deserve more than that.… Expand
  21. Ricko
    May 25, 2012
    8
    The pressure was always going to be on with the follow up to their brilliant debut Is This It. Room on Fire isn't a complete triumph but it wasn't a bad effort either. It very much contiues where Is This It left off, similar songs, similar themes just not quite as brilliant. By far and away their 2nd best album. They seemed to run out of steam a bit after this one.
  22. colin_jack
    Dec 17, 2011
    9
    Full of great tracks this is a really excellent album that hasn't really received the credit it deserves. If you haven't listened to it for a while give it another shot as there as some great tracks on it and very little filler.
  23. RenegadeNorman
    Nov 17, 2011
    9
    A great follow up to Is This It. In my humble opinion, Is This It is better than Room on Fire. Highlights of the album include "Reptilia", "Automatic Stop", "12:51", "Between Love & Hate", "Under Control", "The End Has No End", and "I Can't Win".
  24. JawsPapi87
    Aug 31, 2011
    9
    This album carried right on with the genius of Is This It with a few welcome changes. Every track is at least solid with one huge stand-out being What Ever Happened
  25. SoupRocker
    Jun 29, 2011
    10
    The album is an amazing follow-up to their groundbreaking album Is This It, and fully lives up to the standard set up by their first album. Julian Casablancas' voice comes out in songs like "Automatic Stop" and blows other singers out of the water.
  26. Watermelon789
    Jun 1, 2011
    9
    Room on Fire is great , i liked the musics from the band. One of my favorite on it is Reptillia, it has a great rhythm. Otherwise is cool and appealing.
  27. highwiredays
    Mar 30, 2011
    10
    This was my first Strokes Album, I got it after hearing 1251; this album is just badass and you feel like a badass pumping it. I know it is NYC but it is too good not to like.
  28. Vampire25
    Feb 11, 2011
    7
    The Strokes debut album Is This It redefined garage punk rock. But there second album Room On Fire was a slight disappointment. The songs aren't as catchy and they're not as vibrant as the tracks on their first album. But still nevertheless a good album. It had some really strong tracks and some really not so strong tracks. All In All, A little bit of a disappointment but still a good album. B
  29. MusicIsMyFriend
    Nov 5, 2010
    10
    7 years out and I'm going to write a review, just to bump this albums rating up. It's solid all the way through, Meet Me In The Bathroom is the only weak song, but the other 10 are all perfect in my mind. Just let some of them grow on you and you'll have this album as one of your new favourites.
  30. BenF.
    Feb 14, 2009
    10
    A splendid album. Like Is This It?, it shows what good rock should be like.
  31. thirdman
    Jan 3, 2009
    6
    For the band whose appeal almost entirely depended upon its catchy song-writing skills, it was nigh impossible to repeat its intensity of the 1st album, especially because all the songs were coming out of one guy's brain. Some song-writers are smarter about it, and don't show all their tricks in one album and depend more on the variety of their musical craftsmanship (like Dylan, For the band whose appeal almost entirely depended upon its catchy song-writing skills, it was nigh impossible to repeat its intensity of the 1st album, especially because all the songs were coming out of one guy's brain. Some song-writers are smarter about it, and don't show all their tricks in one album and depend more on the variety of their musical craftsmanship (like Dylan, Bowie, etc) and become known for their musical longevity, but clearly Casablancas wasn't going about his creative process that way, and it shows in this 2nd album. Namely, he seems to have run out of his melodic ideas, and the majority of the songs in this album sound like the songs in the 1st album (or weaker variations of them). That is not just due to the fact that everybody in the band plays exactly the same way as in the 1st album (as many pointed out), or that it was produced in the identical manner as in the 1st, but it certainly doesn't help in terms of painfully highlighting the obvious lack of variety in its song-writings. That said, it's a decent album, and it would've been rated higher if everybody on this planet hasn't already listened to their 1st album millions of times.… Expand
  32. Jaimy
    Jan 22, 2008
    10
    JUST GREAT!!!! I listened this album in side out!
  33. JeremiahT.
    Jan 17, 2008
    9
    The Strokes are back! This time with a good record, not a great one. It's still really good; believe me I love The Strokes. But, it falls, compared to "Is This It".
  34. EddieEinarM.
    Dec 9, 2007
    10
    A great second outing from the Strokes. Opening up with "What Ever Happened?" in which Jules sings "I Wanna be forgotten/And I Don't wanna reminded" is not the likeliest way of starting of your second album. The band has developed since their stunning debut, and although some of the songs feels like Is This It-songs, there are some stunning achievements that proves that the Strokes A great second outing from the Strokes. Opening up with "What Ever Happened?" in which Jules sings "I Wanna be forgotten/And I Don't wanna reminded" is not the likeliest way of starting of your second album. The band has developed since their stunning debut, and although some of the songs feels like Is This It-songs, there are some stunning achievements that proves that the Strokes is a band on the move; swiftly developing. I even secretly maybe prefer this before Is This It - hey, what can I poor boy do? He can lose great songs as 12:51, You Talk Way Too Much and Under Control, tjhat's what he can do.… Expand
  35. Oligami
    May 20, 2007
    9
    This is pop. And pop doesn't get much better than this without being totally embarrassing. It's less potent than the debut, and in order to compensate that it dips slightly into reggae and soul (which turns out to be great!).
  36. GiacomoP
    Feb 15, 2007
    10
    another great album.Amazing!
  37. ElliotM
    Jun 1, 2006
    9
    The nigh on perfect indie-rock sound of Is This It returns, only now with a little more feeling. Tracks such as 12:51 and Under Control touch nerves that their debut, for all its brilliance, never could have. Lyrically it's still not as good as it could be, but musically it remains as tight and tuneful as ever. Quite brilliant stuff.
  38. samF
    May 4, 2006
    9
    I don't understand people that say that this album is the same as Is This It? Songs like 12:51, Under Control, and The end has no end (all of which are possibly my favorite strokes songs) would have sounded terribly out of place on Is This It? But although this cd has most of my favorite strokes songs, it is not as solid throughout as Is This It? was...But falling a little short of I don't understand people that say that this album is the same as Is This It? Songs like 12:51, Under Control, and The end has no end (all of which are possibly my favorite strokes songs) would have sounded terribly out of place on Is This It? But although this cd has most of my favorite strokes songs, it is not as solid throughout as Is This It? was...But falling a little short of Is This It? is by no means a failure.… Expand
  39. bryanl
    Apr 6, 2006
    9
    this is definitely my favourite album.. my absolute favourite band
  40. MusicFan
    Mar 21, 2006
    10
    one of my favorite albums flawless and and a joy to listen to I love it
  41. AnnaW
    Mar 13, 2006
    10
    The Strokes are immensely enjoyable. And I am sick of hearing people complain about their parents having money. Would they be listened to more if their parents were poor? This Album was amazing. I loved Reptilia. Listen to the entire album before saying it is a copy of the first. ugh.
  42. MackB
    Dec 27, 2005
    2
    Say it ain't so. I really loved 'Is This It?' - but I certainly didn't consider them the saviors of rock 'n roll. Anyone with an ounce of music knowledge knows that their sound is decidedly NOT unique. But that was okay for their debut - it was 1 track on repeat 11 times, but that one track was extremely catchy and easy to enjoy. It wasn't challenging or Say it ain't so. I really loved 'Is This It?' - but I certainly didn't consider them the saviors of rock 'n roll. Anyone with an ounce of music knowledge knows that their sound is decidedly NOT unique. But that was okay for their debut - it was 1 track on repeat 11 times, but that one track was extremely catchy and easy to enjoy. It wasn't challenging or original, but it didn't need to be, it was just insanely enjoyable. After the initial thrill of the song(s) wore off, however, I was left with the terrible feeling that this band shouldn't record another record - because it was obvious that they were a one-trick pony. Or is it Phony? I must say, I listened to 'Is This It?' before I read about the hype, or the faux lifestyle represented by the members...and those two elements certainly helped ruin the fun for me. It might as well be me "singing" (Julian isn't really singing) these ditties about seedy, trashy NY life. That would be just as genuine. So what's wrong with 'Room on Fire'? Well, it took these faux musicians 2 years to release the SAME ALBUM. Had this been a debut, 2 years ago, then it would make a fine replacement for 'Is This It?'. As a second album, it fails to achieve even sophomore slump status. This is worse - it's a note for note, verbatim copy. And all this took 2 years plus a scrapped session with Nigel Godrich? I could have made 'Room On Fire' the day after I heard their debut. They could have made a lasting impression on pop-rock had they just stopped with one album. Just how long can they keep up the facade that they're actually musicians anyway? What's worse is that there are legions of mindless souls out there willing to gobble up this unimaginative rehash - and then say that it is the "best thing ever". The Strokes should have just toured for life from their first album - at least then the facade would still be intact.… Expand
  43. JayB
    Nov 8, 2005
    10
    damn good.
  44. ignaciog
    Oct 26, 2005
    10
    amazing!
  45. JerichoC
    Sep 30, 2005
    10
    honestly, you guys seem to think too hard. The strokes' kind of music isn't the arpeggiated sort that unearth, childrne of bodom and celtic frost have. they're a different sort of music so open your friggin' eyes to that! furthermore, their songs may become trite but to some people, it hasn't happened yet. Their albums are as much works of art as the cover of Room honestly, you guys seem to think too hard. The strokes' kind of music isn't the arpeggiated sort that unearth, childrne of bodom and celtic frost have. they're a different sort of music so open your friggin' eyes to that! furthermore, their songs may become trite but to some people, it hasn't happened yet. Their albums are as much works of art as the cover of Room on Fire. Julian Casablancas' singing is what truly separates them amongst the current post-punk crowd...have you heard U2 or Bloc Party sing through a megaphone? no that's because they have something [The Strokes] call "originality."… Expand
  46. RichardC
    Jun 26, 2005
    8
    So what if it's not as good as their first album, I still jam to it.
  47. OliverP
    Jun 3, 2005
    3
    The idea is not a bad one, but the same idea is repeated over and over. On 12:51, Julian Casablancas must be the only singer I have ever heard who sounds just like another guitar. One of the most over-rated bands around.
  48. TawneeW
    May 10, 2005
    10
    I love the strokes and I really love both their Albums and I cant wait til the next one!!!!!
  49. ScottH
    Apr 7, 2005
    0
    The lead singer can't sing and the band plays the same song over and over again.
  50. JonH
    Apr 7, 2005
    6
    It's a okay listen, not nearly as good as their first album, like all the bad reviews say, it's just a repeat, and not nearly as memorable
  51. RobbieD.
    Mar 24, 2005
    10
    This album is amazing. if you like the strokes than you will love this album. something you can roll to all day and have a blast getting messed up and listing to it. a little better then is this it?
  52. KstarQ
    Feb 24, 2005
    10
    It is so amusing for me to see how people who claim to hate The Strokes get so passionate in sharing their thoughts about them. Here's my thought: No one cares, so save it! I mean really, does it matter if you think they'r repetitive? if your sick of them using a "megaphone" to sing? Let me remind you that each band has their own style, and this is what they chose, a pretty damn It is so amusing for me to see how people who claim to hate The Strokes get so passionate in sharing their thoughts about them. Here's my thought: No one cares, so save it! I mean really, does it matter if you think they'r repetitive? if your sick of them using a "megaphone" to sing? Let me remind you that each band has their own style, and this is what they chose, a pretty damn good one, since it is working for them, right? if they were to change that "annoying effect" as somone said, they would no longer be The Strokes. And for those who like to give tips or comments on what would make the band better, SAVE IT! They are the strokes for a reason. Get over it and go make your own damn band if you cant find "good music" I mean what is good music? its different for everybody, its just too bad you cant appreciate these guys (the stroeks) I cant believe anyone would ask the members of a band to go take lessons!!! LOL!!! that was hilarious! Another thing.. who the hell buys a CD based on Q's review without having heard it first. You gotta know your music before you buy it; so I'm guessing for those who bought the cd before knowing what it was all about dont know what the heck they are talking about either. O yeah and about the singer, aka: Julian Casablancas, its the damn "megaphone" he uses that makes them original. I read something about someone going to see the band live and thinking it sucked bad. Question: why the hell go to their concert in the first place? cuz I'm sure this person was aware that bands sound way different when they are live (yes... there are really good live musicians out there) but not everyone is perfect and half the rock stars in the world dont have the best voices. No one has ever claimed The Strokes are the best band in the world, so why worry about little things like that? As long as I can pop their CD in my stereo/car/ computer, whatever, and still get a kick out of them I'm cool! And what is all this nonsense about "I used to love The Strokes but I came to a realization???" People complain about both albums sounding exactly the same, so what the hell makes a person change their mind about bad ass music like The Stroke's??? Now THAT I dont understand!! "They are knobs making music for knobs" I can only laugh at that comment and say "HEY... THAT WOULD MAKE ME A KNOB THEN, RIGHT?" Well the truth is that when it comes to rock bands they are either loved or hated. But please keep you lame hater comments short, rating music a good thing but come on! your comments arent gonna change a band's style, if thats what some hoped for. Just as The Stroke's music is "repetitive", as many say and I strongly disagree with, so are you negative comments. I cant wait to hear a good reason why someone hates the stroeks and also, one that is original. Stop getting you idea about music based on everyone else's comments. To the Strokes: ROCK ON!!!! your awesome And for the haters: I wanna see you make music sound as kick ass as The Stroke's with the only "C5, D5, and F5 chords they play" as you say. And sorry but Fabrizio Moretti is the only good looking one in the band. So NO, it doesnt only take good looks to be a good band. O yeah and... I cant believe somone said they wasted "BLING BLING" on a cd they obviously didnt know too much about. Whats worse is I cant believe anyone uses the word "bling bling and listens to, or atleast tried to listen to THE FABULOUS STROKES! at the same time. Well thats all for now! Sorry about the freakn' essay I wrote but hey, you werent forced to read it.… Expand
  53. KetitaQ
    Feb 24, 2005
    10
    This is an amazing album! The sound of The Strokes is so unique and its like you play the cd and you cant stop listening to it, at least for me. Its addicting... cant get enough of it!
  54. ChrisD
    Feb 24, 2005
    4
    I don't really like the Strokes, but I still feel they'd have some good potential if they made the songs sound more energetic, rather than flattening the drums until they sound like a machine, and always ALWAYS running the vocals through a meagre light distortion. Once everything stops sounding so muffled maybe some better songs will protrude.
  55. ZEROMEgster
    Feb 8, 2005
    10
    amazing album
  56. andreav
    Jan 26, 2005
    10
    i just love it!
  57. ignaciog
    Jan 13, 2005
    10
    amazing!
  58. PaulF
    Dec 21, 2004
    2
    I can't believe how so many reviewers and people like the strokes. What is it about them? It's like no one has ever heard a decent rock band before! After reading Q's review i went and bought it. What a mistake thet was. Every damn song sounds the same & the lead singers voice never changes tone throughout and sounds completely dull making the album an absolute chore to I can't believe how so many reviewers and people like the strokes. What is it about them? It's like no one has ever heard a decent rock band before! After reading Q's review i went and bought it. What a mistake thet was. Every damn song sounds the same & the lead singers voice never changes tone throughout and sounds completely dull making the album an absolute chore to listen to. It's only 30mins long & i still can't bring myself to listen to it all. Absolute awful - avoid.… Expand
  59. Matt
    Sep 27, 2004
    3
    The vastly over-rated "Is This It" is followed by by this vastly over-rated effort. Yet again, background music, nothing grabbing, expect to hear the likes of 12:51 or Reptilia in lifts and fast food restaurants for the next couple of years - it really is perfect for this, but not much else.
  60. VladIV
    Aug 22, 2004
    9
    Oh please, most of you are way overthinking whats going on in the album. Who cares what the fuck you think about the band. Does the album sound good or not. The music fits perfectly with the lyrics and it sounds right. I personally was not dissapointed with one song on the album and am anticpating their next.
  61. rachelz
    Aug 17, 2004
    5
    yea, i know they're filthy rich kids who got their career moving through daddy's wallet, and, to make matters more annoying, flaunt their hypocritical bohemia more than their musical chops, this album is decent...but by no means great. if they just played the damn songs instead of trying ultra hard to make themselves sound low-fi and "cool", as if there really is some yea, i know they're filthy rich kids who got their career moving through daddy's wallet, and, to make matters more annoying, flaunt their hypocritical bohemia more than their musical chops, this album is decent...but by no means great. if they just played the damn songs instead of trying ultra hard to make themselves sound low-fi and "cool", as if there really is some desperation on the line (like these guys couldn't hang back out in their daddies' penthouses on the upper east side if their music didn't work out). the velvets did the low-budget, feedback thang almost 40 years ago--and did it much better and more provocatively. not to mention "psychocadndy" 20 years ago by the jamc. it's time to move on. basically, less thrift store "really, i'm not loaded" juvenile schtick and more production would probably equal more sincerity and honesty, which would help the songs out immensely. and i would probably listen to it again.… Expand
  62. dave
    Jul 22, 2004
    8
    These guys are doing a great job. Another hit with Room on Fire is making sure they aren't a one hit wonder. Ofcourse there is always more to come with a cd coming out this spring. I see it as an improvement (musically, style and all) however I still prefer "Is this it" in my CD player on a road trip. Meet me in the Bathroom and The End has No End are definately the highlights of These guys are doing a great job. Another hit with Room on Fire is making sure they aren't a one hit wonder. Ofcourse there is always more to come with a cd coming out this spring. I see it as an improvement (musically, style and all) however I still prefer "Is this it" in my CD player on a road trip. Meet me in the Bathroom and The End has No End are definately the highlights of this solid rock album. Hey, there are plenty of detractors out there, all I can say is that come the third album..if it stands up the way the first two did, these guys officially join the White Stripes as the best rock bands in the world. They might not be the saviors of rock n' roll like some claim...but they are keeping it alive and well.… Expand
  63. SaraA.
    Jul 9, 2004
    10
    This is my best Cd I can Hear it all day
  64. SuseB
    Jul 6, 2004
    10
    where have the strokes been all these years!!??? thats what i want to know! I dont know how i have been able to live without their music. The have the best sound- not to mention looks ( girls have gotta love Fab) the music is quick and catchy! i love them lovers of the strokes- tell your friends stop them from listening to bloody britney spears and put a good tune in their head! thats all where have the strokes been all these years!!??? thats what i want to know! I dont know how i have been able to live without their music. The have the best sound- not to mention looks ( girls have gotta love Fab) the music is quick and catchy! i love them lovers of the strokes- tell your friends stop them from listening to bloody britney spears and put a good tune in their head! thats all i ask of you!… Expand
  65. staceyt
    Jul 5, 2004
    10
    I like this cd alot i got it 3 days ago and im already hooked, maybe it is slightly inferior to the first but its still worth a listen definately. The stand out songs for me are 'What ever happened', 'Under Control', 'The end has no end' and ofcourse 'Reptilia'. You should buy this cd!!
  66. Tyler
    Jul 4, 2004
    7
    People expect so much from each new album of an artist/group. I guess that is granted given modern economics. However, even though costs and spending may have changed I don't think the creative process has changed much. I don't often like to mention the Beatles much in reviews, as they are on a different plain - but their body of work will best illustrate my point. The first People expect so much from each new album of an artist/group. I guess that is granted given modern economics. However, even though costs and spending may have changed I don't think the creative process has changed much. I don't often like to mention the Beatles much in reviews, as they are on a different plain - but their body of work will best illustrate my point. The first four Beatles records were seemingly carbon-copies of each other (and much of the songs were covers). Give the Strokes some time to evolve and incorporate other influences into sound and perhaps we will be blessed with a modern day "Rubber Soul", "Sgt. Pepper", or "Abbey Road" (whatever your preference). Although that seems unlikey, I'm not sure what other paths the VU/Television sound has left to take: punk, noise pop, shoegaze - hopefully there's something left.… Expand
  67. iNTRAbUDDY
    Jun 27, 2004
    10
    This is an incredible album! I mean yeah, People have their own decisions about the album but I personally think that it's one of the best albums out this year! They did a good job with the lyrics because it's not taking you through all the crap people don't want to hear about, instead it gets right to the point and has a lot of effect and meaning on people. Hey they got This is an incredible album! I mean yeah, People have their own decisions about the album but I personally think that it's one of the best albums out this year! They did a good job with the lyrics because it's not taking you through all the crap people don't want to hear about, instead it gets right to the point and has a lot of effect and meaning on people. Hey they got you to listen to the album or at least some of the songs and thats basically all they want. Is for you guys to hear the music.… Expand
  68. JonathanH
    Apr 13, 2004
    7
    It's not the great album some people say it is, it's not as good as their first, but it's still a solid rock album that knows when to quit before it gets tedious
  69. JasonD
    Mar 30, 2004
    6
    One half of a good album. If only the album was more consistant but there are definitely songs which become a chore to listen to. It's also frustrating that this is all the material the band can come up with since Is This It. Not to mention that the recorded versions of the songs played during the Is This It tour are very disappointing.
  70. Rick
    Jan 29, 2004
    1
    So this is what it takes bands nowadays to become legends, pretty faces, stealing almost everything(musically), and a bunch of screaming 12 year olds..These guys formed a band in Prep school, learned and played C5, D5, and F5 chords, got a drummer that sucks so much, meg white could kick his as# any day, and boom there bigger than anything...Wow , and oh yea, every thing about them is So this is what it takes bands nowadays to become legends, pretty faces, stealing almost everything(musically), and a bunch of screaming 12 year olds..These guys formed a band in Prep school, learned and played C5, D5, and F5 chords, got a drummer that sucks so much, meg white could kick his as# any day, and boom there bigger than anything...Wow , and oh yea, every thing about them is original right, lets see the guy uses enhancements on his voice, the guitars are so slow,boring and so f***ing repetitive,and the drums- i already mentioned the drum... I heard them live once and it was a joke the singer was going out of tune every 30 secounds, the drummer kept a steady boring beat, but the crowd(full of horny girls) was going crazy. The album is almost exactly the same as Is This It, its like the reanimation cd from linkin park..Rehashed s**t, songs like 12:51, under control , and between love and hate sound the same from the previous cd(but with crappier lyrics) the only song i did like was The way it is.. Maybe the guitarist and drummer and ah hell the whole band should take lessons, just to forward there playing ability, because this sounds like s**t...How many times can i listen to power chords played over enhancements voice that to be truthful sounds awful..What I?m i listening to techno… Expand
  71. XFrOmChaosX
    Jan 13, 2004
    10
    This Album is amazing........i got it two weeks ago and i still havent taken it out of my cd player..
  72. JeremyG
    Jan 4, 2004
    8
    Several songs on this album are flat out strong all around. The others seem to rely too heavily on short melodic segments to buoy otherwise weak songs. They got a bit complacent here, and this album at times lacks the fire and cockiness of their debut. But on talent alone, they get away with it more often than not.
  73. J.Dockx
    Dec 21, 2003
    10
    Brilliant, one of the best CD's in my collection
  74. ShintoI
    Dec 19, 2003
    10
    This record is incredibly valuable. Its a cd containing a party. I listen to it incredibly loud in my car alone and driving and have a party in my car. I believe thats why the band made this record, and I can't think of ANY rock record in history that can do it better. "Is This It" was a great rock record, but this is an incredible party record and shows me that the band is becoming This record is incredibly valuable. Its a cd containing a party. I listen to it incredibly loud in my car alone and driving and have a party in my car. I believe thats why the band made this record, and I can't think of ANY rock record in history that can do it better. "Is This It" was a great rock record, but this is an incredible party record and shows me that the band is becoming more innovative and exciting as artists. "Reptilia" gets Television on the guitar sequences and "12:51", "Automatic Stop", and "The End Has No End" sound futuristic with the keyboard spaceship sounds. And, of course, "Meet Me in the Bathroom" and "B/Love/Hate" is pure rock shimmy that is undeniable. A must have rock record and party pill for those static times.… Expand
  75. BrendenR
    Dec 16, 2003
    10
    This album kicks it man. better than the first. all the way.
  76. JuandeR
    Dec 10, 2003
    9
    Maybe it's the album of the year.
  77. JonathanW
    Dec 5, 2003
    10
    The first time I listened to the CD, I thought the same thing~ where is the originality? Unfortunately, people who give things only one chance in this society will miss out on the wonders of this album. The Strokes have definitely expanded on their natural talent, making this Room On Fire a new hit CD and winning the hearts of the next generation of youth. Well done Strokes, well done.
  78. BryanB
    Dec 5, 2003
    7
    Overall, a good album....typical Strokes. Nothing new, but consistent with the quality of their last album. Why change a winning formula??
  79. aaronm
    Dec 1, 2003
    10
    great album
  80. Greg
    Nov 28, 2003
    9
    All in all a great album. The first half is nearly flawless, and, sadly, the album loses some steam after those tracks. On a whole, I'd say the album is great, and we'll probably all be enjoying it for a long time.
  81. BigJohnny
    Nov 22, 2003
    10
    Yes.
  82. nical
    Nov 18, 2003
    10
    amazing cd. Such a HOT band. Julian is sexy
  83. ZeeshaanB
    Nov 17, 2003
    9
    This album is excellent. The Strokes really know how to create good indie rock. It is catchy and fun.
  84. AndrewE
    Nov 16, 2003
    10
    I'm a huge fan of the original, and at first found myself disappointed. I went back to it, and found 11 tracks of pure, fantastic strokes music, with more originality than i noticed at first listen. Highly recommended.
  85. JohnA
    Nov 15, 2003
    4
    Very dissapointing. Too me, it sounds like a bunch of songs that weren't good enough for the first record. This is definitely not it.
  86. It'sme.
    Nov 13, 2003
    7
    Pretty good album that takes at least 5 good listens before you "get" it. Don't hate them because critics praise them. If you're gonna hate them, hate them because you don't like their music. Not many bands make a sophomore album as good as this.
  87. ThomasB.
    Nov 11, 2003
    6
    This is a great album, and worthy of its high praise. Every good album ever made has one commonality: great songs. This one is no exception. They're just quality songs by a band with a lead singer who's got a great voice. Better than the first album, I think.
  88. WillO
    Nov 7, 2003
    8
    Catchy, but Casablancas' voice sounds a little dull sometimes. Also, the guitar can get repetitive sometimes. I think the highlights of the album are "Reptilia" and "Meet Me in the Bathroom," but i think they need to have better solos and varying guitar rhythms. (Michael K, Interpol rocks. Probably in my top five favorite bands.)
  89. BunifaJ
    Nov 3, 2003
    0
    What is dis crap? I can't baleve I wasted ma bling bling on dis shite right herre. Damn grrl, this CD sucks like ma mamma on a first date! snap snap. Oh yes I did!
  90. Sid
    Nov 3, 2003
    9
    Bought album, listened to it... dissappointed (except for 3 tracks)... listened 3/4 times more loved it... Is quite different from first on closer inspection.
  91. nickW
    Nov 3, 2003
    8
    Its a grower-first few listens, hated it-then like all 'good' albums just clicked.
  92. RabA
    Oct 29, 2003
    10
    Oh yeah this is it!
  93. mikem
    Oct 29, 2003
    10
    Since I rated Is This It a 10 I wish I could make this one a 11 but 10 will have to do. Unlike 99% of CD's I can actually listen to this one w/out skipping a track. FLAWLESS. The only question now is how do they follow this one up.
  94. Elliott
    Oct 28, 2003
    10
    Completely brilliant in the simplest, most unpretentious of ways. Like its predecessor.
  95. Elliott
    Oct 28, 2003
    10
    Completely brilliant in the simplest, most unpretentious of ways. Like its predecessor.
  96. MichaelK
    Oct 28, 2003
    2
    Pathetic rehash, much prefer White Stripes and (especially) Interpol to this torrid garbage. When will the singer learn singing through a megaphone IS A GODDAMN ANNOYING EFFECT???!!! If you're considering getting this garbage and you haven't heard Interpol yet, by all means buy theirs instead, Turn On the Bright Lights. Imaginative and vastly superior, and it actually mines a Pathetic rehash, much prefer White Stripes and (especially) Interpol to this torrid garbage. When will the singer learn singing through a megaphone IS A GODDAMN ANNOYING EFFECT???!!! If you're considering getting this garbage and you haven't heard Interpol yet, by all means buy theirs instead, Turn On the Bright Lights. Imaginative and vastly superior, and it actually mines a retro vein no one's touched yet.… Expand
  97. katyw
    Oct 28, 2003
    10
    THE STROKES IS ROCK !!
  98. JamesM
    Oct 27, 2003
    8
    Solid album. They've proved they can do it twice, albeit at the expense of progression/diversity as an outfit. Side Note: Reptilia is insane.
  99. BenJ
    Oct 27, 2003
    8
    I was actually pretty unimpressed on the first few spins - the vocals were too low and the mix muddy, but eventually those melodies and hooks poked through! It's a great album - not immediate, but time pays off!
  100. JosephS
    Oct 26, 2003
    9
    it's terrific, as good as is this it? these pro reviewers can't make up their mind but the one dude rating it a 20 is on crack. no doubt it's one of the best rock cds of the year.
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Awards & Rankings

9
#9 Most Discussed Album of 2003
20
#20 Most Shared Album of 2003

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
77

Generally favorable reviews - based on 31 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 24 out of 31
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 31
  3. Negative: 1 out of 31
  1. Prefix Magazine
    Jun 6, 2013
    80
    [Casablancas] builds atmosphere out of evocative lyrics and emotional scenery, and he does it without leaning on linear narrative or songs with singular interpretations.
    Read full review
  2. Rolling Stone
    80
    In the face of hysterical expectation, the Strokes have resisted the temptation to hit the brakes, grow up and screw around with a sound that doesn't need fixing -- yet.
    Read full review
  3. Nude As The News
    90
    The album is arguably better than the group's much-heralded debut, if by "better" we just mean more sonically impressive overall.
    Read full review
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