'Is This It': The Album & 3 Songs That Redefined Indie Rock for a New Generation
In July 2001, The Strokes burst onto the scene with their debut album Is This It. Raw, unapologetic, and remarkably fresh, the album quickly became a cornerstone of modern indie rock. With its lo-fi aesthetics and vintage New York cool, Is This It helped reignite guitar-driven rock at a time when polished pop and nu-metal dominated the charts. The album is this it became more than just a debut — it was a cultural reset.
What Made 'Is This It' So Revolutionary?
The album is this it wasn't crafted to impress with complexity or grandiosity. Quite the opposite. It was stripped down, minimal, and often felt like it was recorded in a garage (which, to some extent, it was). Produced by Gordon Raphael, the album embraced imperfections, unfiltered vocals, and jangly guitar riffs that became signature elements of the indie rock revival. It channeled the rawness of the Velvet Underground and the pop appeal of 70s garage bands, wrapped in a rebellious early-2000s attitude.
Clocking in at just over 35 minutes, the album offers 11 tightly written songs that waste no time. Each track delivers a slice of youthful energy and urban ennui, performed with a self-aware swagger that made it instantly relatable to a new generation.
Track-by-Track Highlights
"Last Nite"
Arguably the most iconic song from the album is this it, "Last Nite" combines a catchy guitar riff with a rhythm that grooves without trying too hard. Julian Casablancas’ vocals are gritty and honest, delivering lyrics about rejection and self-reflection. It’s a perfect mix of cool detachment and emotional vulnerability.
"Someday"
With a bouncy rhythm and a nostalgic tone, “Someday” captures the bittersweet reality of growing up. It’s an anthem for quarter-life crises, laced with longing and hope. Its retro-style video only adds to the charm, showing the band’s flair for visual storytelling as much as musical delivery.
"Hard to Explain"
This track signals a departure from standard rock structures. With electronic drum sounds layered under jagged guitar riffs, it’s one of the most sonically interesting songs on the record. “Hard to Explain” helped position The Strokes as more than just garage rockers — they were artists willing to explore new sounds.
Want more indie classics? Check out our list of Best Indie Bands of the 2000s.
The Cultural Impact of 'Is This It'
When the album is this it hit the airwaves, it wasn’t just music critics who took notice. The album reshaped what a rock band could look and sound like in the new millennium. Its success encouraged labels to seek out similar acts, leading to a boom in indie bands globally. Arctic Monkeys, The Killers, and Franz Ferdinand all owe a part of their trajectories to the groundwork laid by The Strokes.
And it wasn't just the music — the fashion, the attitude, the visual aesthetic — all became part of a package that inspired countless other acts and fans.
Explore more about the roots of indie in our article How Indie Music Was Born.
Would 'Is This It' Still Matter Today?
Absolutely. If the album is this it were released in 2025, it would likely be hailed as a breath of fresh air. In an era saturated with overproduced and algorithm-friendly pop, its simplicity and directness would offer something genuinely different. Its DIY ethos, raw instrumentation, and emotional depth remain timeless.
The album reminds us that sometimes less is more — that genuine connection beats sonic perfection. It’s a philosophy that continues to inspire artists and listeners alike.
FAQs About 'Is This It'
Who produced the album 'Is This It'?
Gordon Raphael, known for his lo-fi production techniques, was the driving force behind the album's distinctive sound.
When was the album released?
Is This It was released on July 30, 2001, in the UK and in October 2001 in the US.
Why is this album considered so influential?
It helped revive indie and garage rock, influenced fashion and culture, and launched The Strokes into worldwide recognition.
Which track is the most popular?
“Last Nite” is often cited as the standout hit, but tracks like “Someday” and “Hard to Explain” are equally iconic.
Where can I listen to the album?
It’s available on Spotify, Apple Music, and other major streaming platforms.
Conclusion
More than 20 years later, the album is this it continues to captivate audiences and influence artists. Whether you’re revisiting it for nostalgia or discovering it for the first time, it’s an essential listen for anyone who loves indie music. The Strokes didn’t just release a debut — they defined a decade and helped shape a genre.
Want to explore more visuals from this era? Don’t miss our article on Best Indie Music Videos.