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

Review this album

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. 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.
  2. 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
  3. 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.
  4. 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
  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. 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
  7. drongodan
    Apr 1, 2020
    9
    Very good, followed a similar formula to their debut. Favourite tracks Between Love & Hate, I Cant Win
  8. frightopia
    Mar 10, 2023
    7
    Didn't have any major standouts, but it was still an enjoyable listen! Really no skips
  9. 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
  10. 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
  11. 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.
  12. 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.
  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. 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
  15. 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
  16. 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
  17. 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".
  18. 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.
  19. 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
  20. 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.
  21. Franco853
    Aug 11, 2022
    9
    Excelente album el tercer mejor album de los strokes simplemente god
    Xdxdxd
  22. 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.
  23. 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.
  24. 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
  25. JuandeR
    Dec 10, 2003
    9
    Maybe it's the album of the year.
  26. 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.
  27. AdamX
    Oct 20, 2003
    1
    awful, really... they simply haven't gone anywhere with their sound! the songs sound like poor rehashes, and theres very little in the way of actual tunes (barring the quite good "Whatever Happened?"). Overall i'm sorely disappointed, but not overly surprised...
  28. 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.
  29. katyw
    Oct 28, 2003
    10
    THE STROKES IS ROCK !!
  30. 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!!
  31. ScottH
    Apr 7, 2005
    0
    The lead singer can't sing and the band plays the same song over and over again.
  32. 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.
  33. Dr.Gonzo
    Oct 14, 2003
    10
    It's not as good as Is This It, but it's still the one of the best albums released so far this year.
  34. ConorC
    Oct 15, 2003
    9
    Excellent! I would have give it a 10 but i wouldn't even give anything 10 so 9 will have to do. anyway its an excellent album. it grew on me dead quick and i can't stop listen to "whatever happened". i don't think its as good as 1st album but its still great. best album out at the moment by far!!
  35. BrendenR
    Dec 16, 2003
    10
    This album kicks it man. better than the first. all the way.
  36. PAMAN
    Oct 24, 2003
    10
    If perfect really exisited in music form , this would be it! It's funny to read some of the reviews which have crucified the album-they loved "Is This It?", but hate "Room On Fire". I think that's a serious case of backlashing for the sake of it. The new album has all the energy, melody, lazy vocals, and sinicism of the first with upgrades, and yet they knock it. Alright, you If perfect really exisited in music form , this would be it! It's funny to read some of the reviews which have crucified the album-they loved "Is This It?", but hate "Room On Fire". I think that's a serious case of backlashing for the sake of it. The new album has all the energy, melody, lazy vocals, and sinicism of the first with upgrades, and yet they knock it. Alright, you listen with your critic's mind and the rest of us will listen with our souls. I think it's a work of effortless genius.… Expand
  37. stk
    Oct 25, 2003
    10
    even if it ends like an "oasis thing...!",we can proudly say that finally the 00s have their own beatles...hard times 4 music with all these chart-s***s, but that makes it more precious...the room is on fire n i m hapilly burning...
  38. 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!
  39. Elliott
    Oct 28, 2003
    10
    Completely brilliant in the simplest, most unpretentious of ways. Like its predecessor.
  40. PanchoV
    Oct 2, 2003
    9
    Another quality release, go download it, then buy it
  41. RyanG
    Oct 3, 2003
    10
    They weren't supposed to make an album better than "Is This It." Just listen though, it floored me, they did! Sure, it sounds like the Strokes still...with skittering drums, jangly guitars, quick riffs, ace three note solos, and melodies upon melodies. The sound is much more full somehow and it's the first thing you'll notice. Song writing has improved, so has Julian's They weren't supposed to make an album better than "Is This It." Just listen though, it floored me, they did! Sure, it sounds like the Strokes still...with skittering drums, jangly guitars, quick riffs, ace three note solos, and melodies upon melodies. The sound is much more full somehow and it's the first thing you'll notice. Song writing has improved, so has Julian's vocals. There is more guitar interplay from Nick and Albert, and Fab is a human drum machine. They decided to open up a few doors for this one, allowing elbow room to sketch plans for their future. This is another classic, and it's scary! They WERE NOT supposed to make another album this good. Yet, they did. … Expand
  42. 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..
  43. 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
  44. 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.
  45. SaraA.
    Jul 9, 2004
    10
    This is my best Cd I can Hear it all day
  46. 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
  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. bryanl
    Apr 6, 2006
    9
    this is definitely my favourite album.. my absolute favourite band
  49. 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.
  50. [Anonymous]
    Oct 11, 2003
    5
    The sounds hasn't changed....only flaw is that mostly every song on the album is similar..they could have changed it up a bit
  51. 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.
  52. alw
    Oct 12, 2003
    8
    Best song are : What Ever Happened?, Automatic Stop, 12:51, Under Control, The End Has No End. The other songs are alright but now as good the first 5 mentioned
  53. RaoulD
    Oct 1, 2003
    10
    This is an excellent album. Their sound is fully realized. Is This It? only hinted at their potential. I wish that people would stop slamming them and saying that they are rip-offs when clearly, they are probably the best band in the world right now.
  54. nickW
    Nov 3, 2003
    8
    Its a grower-first few listens, hated it-then like all 'good' albums just clicked.
  55. ShawnH
    Oct 13, 2003
    10
    can't... stop... listening... I don't think I've heard a song better than Reptilia in a while - that guitar break - it gives me goose bumps and makes me want to become an air-guitar meathead at the same time...
  56. joshg
    Oct 15, 2003
    9
    Word up clih
  57. AndrewS
    Oct 21, 2003
    9
    I think this album is awsome, but i hate how the critics are saying that is sounds the same as the first. Well for their information THATS WHAT WE WANT more of the i dont care music. Good work Strokes and fuck you critics
  58. alexs
    Oct 20, 2003
    10
    you'd have to be knob not the appreciate crafty and instantly gratifying songwriting
  59. 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
  60. JanisG
    Oct 22, 2003
    10
    Love it! The strokes kick ass!
  61. StevieW
    Oct 24, 2003
    10
    I have to echo most of the other opinions on this album. I couldn't see how they could possibly usurp 'Is this it', but somehow they have, this record has even more energy, sonic power and pure joy emanating from it than their debut! Some of the negative reviews i've read about this astound me, attention-seeking backlash that's all. The strokes make joyous music I have to echo most of the other opinions on this album. I couldn't see how they could possibly usurp 'Is this it', but somehow they have, this record has even more energy, sonic power and pure joy emanating from it than their debut! Some of the negative reviews i've read about this astound me, attention-seeking backlash that's all. The strokes make joyous music for our generation, and that includes just about anyone reading this, and they manage to remain cool as... in the process. Absolute sonic nectar.… Expand
  62. 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.
  63. 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
  64. Elliott
    Oct 28, 2003
    10
    Completely brilliant in the simplest, most unpretentious of ways. Like its predecessor.
  65. KiranH
    Oct 3, 2003
    10
    I don't give 10s lightly, but Is This It remains one of my favourite CDs of all time, and, believe it or not, this one is better. Spectacular. I can't stop listening to "Automatic Stop", "What Ever Happened?" and "Under Control" specifically, but the whole thing is a masterpiece. If only it were longer...
  66. WillieS
    Oct 5, 2003
    10
    They made a great second album. If they keep this up, who knows how great they will become, or how they will affect the music world. A stone cold classic, through and through.
  67. 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.
  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. 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
  70. 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
  71. 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
  72. 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
  73. 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
  74. 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.
  75. JayB
    Nov 8, 2005
    10
    damn good.
  76. ignaciog
    Oct 26, 2005
    10
    amazing!
  77. 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.
  78. 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!
  79. ZEROMEgster
    Feb 8, 2005
    10
    amazing album
  80. TawneeW
    May 10, 2005
    10
    I love the strokes and I really love both their Albums and I cant wait til the next one!!!!!
  81. RichardC
    Jun 26, 2005
    8
    So what if it's not as good as their first album, I still jam to it.
  82. 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
  83. 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
  84. FedericoA
    Oct 11, 2003
    10
    it just makes me feel like...dancing???...i can't stop my feet but still feel all of the sadness. This album is like the pathetic wasted up guy dancin' in the disco floor when everybody has already left but he still looks charmy and irresistible.
  85. f
    Oct 11, 2003
    10
    Hard as it is to believe, there is not a bad track at all on the record. Somehow, this album is better than the first. This is (deep breath) the best album of the year.
  86. 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.
  87. ZeeshaanB
    Nov 17, 2003
    9
    This album is excellent. The Strokes really know how to create good indie rock. It is catchy and fun.
  88. BigJohnny
    Nov 22, 2003
    10
    Yes.
  89. 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.
  90. 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!
  91. HockeyT
    Oct 13, 2003
    8
    An outstanding listen throughout. You gotta love the meshed guitars and Hammond's mean yet beautiful solos. My only beef is the amount of time it took to get this new material produced considering that lyrically, conceptually, and sound wise there really isn't anything different between this and the first album. If they are going to be a single faceted band fine, but at least An outstanding listen throughout. You gotta love the meshed guitars and Hammond's mean yet beautiful solos. My only beef is the amount of time it took to get this new material produced considering that lyrically, conceptually, and sound wise there really isn't anything different between this and the first album. If they are going to be a single faceted band fine, but at least come out with more than 11 songs every three years. Im not sure if they lack the creativity of many great bands of the past, or just dont feel the need to come up with new stuff. Regardless, the music kicks more ass than anything getting publicity this side of MTV.… Collapse
  92. RobbyD
    Oct 14, 2003
    8
    First of all, let me just say that I have Room On Fire in my stereo right now. The real deal. I don't write reviews of downloads and, I certainly never rate an album until its in my hands. The point is that this is not hype. If you enjoyed the first Strokes record, you will most certainly like Room On Fire. "What Ever Happend" and "Reptilia" are my personal favorites this time First of all, let me just say that I have Room On Fire in my stereo right now. The real deal. I don't write reviews of downloads and, I certainly never rate an album until its in my hands. The point is that this is not hype. If you enjoyed the first Strokes record, you will most certainly like Room On Fire. "What Ever Happend" and "Reptilia" are my personal favorites this time around. Once again, every song is fantastic. I've never had to press the skip button with The Strokes playing. There is one problem though. Probably the best criticism a band can get... Room On Fire is too short! Put their two LPs together and you've got a 10. But it's hard for me to say that Room On Fire is worth it's full price tag because it's over before you know it and leaves you wanting so much more...… Expand
  93. 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.)
  94. aaronm
    Dec 1, 2003
    10
    great album
  95. J.Dockx
    Dec 21, 2003
    10
    Brilliant, one of the best CD's in my collection
  96. Adam
    Oct 22, 2003
    4
    If i ever meet Julian again, i'll let him know how he helped both create and destroy musical revolutio the period of three years.
  97. anthonyg
    Oct 24, 2003
    10
    I actually went to school (phoenix NYC ) with julian and never knew he was so talented. like the last album this album is amazingly chill. the most down to earth music i have heard in a long time. you can hang out or dance to this music ... reptilia is by far the best song on this c.d....very catchy tune. not saying that its the only one, just my personal favorite... this c.d. deserves a I actually went to school (phoenix NYC ) with julian and never knew he was so talented. like the last album this album is amazingly chill. the most down to earth music i have heard in a long time. you can hang out or dance to this music ... reptilia is by far the best song on this c.d....very catchy tune. not saying that its the only one, just my personal favorite... this c.d. deserves a 10 compared to all these new artists out there who suck... like a disease of bad pop and even hip-hop is going around. get your strokes "room on fire" vaccination on the 28th. if i would have talked to him in school, i wouldn't have to wait till then :)… Expand
  98. JeffreyL
    Oct 24, 2003
    9
    This sophmore effort can be the same and different at the same time from the first release. It has the same ingredients, but it is flanked by different, denser combinations of these ingredients. Only 3 songs are retreads, the rest are a significant progression in their sound. I listen to it over and over and over.....
  99. jd
    Oct 25, 2003
    0
    Any hyped-up flash in the pan.
  100. J.Day
    Oct 25, 2003
    10
    DO NOT JUDGE THIS DISC AFTER ONE LISTEN! Since your probably already a fan alot will sound familiar. But the by the third time you clearly see the differences between the Is This It and Room on Fire. This is every bit as good as Is This It. They bring more musical ideas to the table without messing with their style. This disc is amazing. Dont fool yourselves! Just buy it!
prev
Page:

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
See all critic reviews »