The edgy vocals and catchy guitar riffs are back, but changed for the better. The Strokes, renowned for their singles “Last Night,” “Reptilia” and “12:51,” recently released their new album First Impressions of Earth.
The Strokes first entered the music scene with the hit “Last Night” from the album Is This It? The Strokes continued to produce hits with the smash album Room on Fire.
Diversity has always been a characteristic of the band’s albums and the new set is no exception. Each song has its own individual tone and lyrical genius. First Impressions of Earth also makes a new breakthrough in modern rock.
The band begins to change from the emo-based rock that became extremely popular in the late 90s. Each song on the new album has a maturity that proves the band’s move beyond merely one-hit-wonders.
“You Only Live Once” positively opens the set of tracks with a simple beat that sounds similar to songs by The Cars.
The album’s single “Juicebox” is a quickly-paced song with the almost melodic screaming that is a popular characteristic of the band.
Although one may find the screaming a bit extreme at times, the guitars and upbeat drumming help transform the song into an outstanding single.
After progressing through the first two tracks, previous Strokes fans may realize that the band’s music has changed for the better.
The guitar riffs are more complex than those of previous albums, but still give the listener great ear candy time and time again. The band no longer relies on the simplistic picking and “power chord” nature of punk rock in the late nineties.
“Razorblade” is a cheerful track featuring a clean guitar rhythm and great use of tambourine.
“Heart in a Cage” is a perfect show of diversity with its unique sound and trance-like vocals.
The song’s guitar is also a nice example of the Strokes’ maturation. “15 Minutes” changes the beat with a calm, but melodic tone.
Previous Strokes albums tended to follow a single tone and general song speed. Because of the change, the new album may appeal to fans who want a CD that can be listened to in any mood.
In addition, many new fans may be pleased to know that the album’s song diversity spans more range than merely being a compilation of the album’s singles played different ways.
Songs such as “Electricityscape” and “Ize of The World” buffer the heavier songs throughout the entire album. “On the Other Side” will please any bass guitar fans and features a beat that sounds similar to those by the Killers.
“Red Light” is an uplifting tune that ends the album on a positive note. Although the song continues to prove the album’s diversity, it also continues the short and sweet endings of Strokes songs.
Overall, First Impressions of Earth changes direction from previous Strokes albums, but does not fail by any standard.
New listeners may find that the entire album contains enough variety to please the listener beyond the popular single. The album is highly recommended as a refreshing new taste in music.
