Stroke pulling
The Strokes: This Is It (Rough Trade)

The Strokes have got an almost impossible legacy to live up to. Like meeting Jesus, the first encounter is almost guaranteed to be an anti-climax.

That said, the album is far from shoddy. Certainly not earth shattering, but at least mood altering enough to turn the volume up a couple of notches. In the current climate, where covering Phil Collins has become acceptable, The Strokes brand of modern punk, laced with traces of the Beatles and radio friendly hooks is to be welcomed with open ears and moshing heads.

The genius comes not so much from the music itself, but from the perfect timing of its release. It's the look, it's the references and it's the packaging of the whole outfit that's re-awakened music lovers from their slumber. It's been too long since a new band became a buzz-word for cool.

Indie has been resurrected. Long live The Strokes.