2008 Woodie Awards
Play it by Ear; The Strokes
First Impressions of Earth
Jordan Kerfeld
Issue date: 1/9/06 Section: Culture
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The Strokes
'First Impressions
of Earth'
In the recording industry, bark does not always equal bite. Such was the case for The Strokes' 2001 debut "Is This It?"
The album was lauded heavily but didn't establish The Strokes as an act one might incessantly talk about over one's morning danish. The British press praised the hooky, upbeat effort as a masterwork from the band they considered to be the saviors of rock 'n' roll.
"Room on Fire," like many other sophomore efforts, fell under the weight of overwhelming acclaim surrounding their first piece. Many found it to be like running in place.
Julian Casablancas' monotone vocals over clever melodies started to annoy more than interest.
People started to question the British press' adoration as well (after all, these gentlemen were convinced that placing Oasis and The Beatles in the same breath was a good idea in the nineties). However, the quintet survived the initial critical hailstorm and found sunshine with favorable reviews afterwards.
The Strokes' latest effort, "First Impressions of Earth," is a ginger step forward to satisfy fans and likely attract new listeners. The Strokes' sound doesn't particularly change from past albums, so the anticipated creative leap forward proves nothing more than a baby step.
However, in their new album the group touches on aspects of their first two outings while making them seem fresh.
The album is a mixed bag, as the rest of their discography up until now has been. Some songs should, and probably deserve, to be skipped. But that is not to say this album isn't worth its $9.99 price tag at Best Buy. It most definitely is.
"Juicebox," The Strokes' current radio single likely to be played far beyond its welcome, is a hard rocker anthem that is simplistic but satisfying.
"Vision of Division" is a wonderful track with a "Room on Fire"-like funkiness and interesting melody changes.
"Razorblade" is another memorable track, with a Barry Manilow chorus melody (seriously) and lovely early-Strokes exuberance.
Overall, there are far more positives than negatives about this CD. Julian Casablancas thankfully sings (or at least tries to) on many of the tracks, as opposed to the brooding, monotone register that plagued "Room on Fire."
