The Strokes - Top 10

Journal Entry - 4.13.2025

Trying my best to rank my favorite Strokes songs (as of today). Pretty tough, but I'll do my best.

My first taste of The Strokes was playing Reptilia on Guitar Hero. Picked them back up when The New Abnormal dropped, and it became one of my favorite albums of all time.

10. What Ever Happened?

Album: Room On Fire

Release Date: October 28, 2003

Beat the sophomore album curse with this off the rip.

"I wanna be forgotten | And I don't wanna be reminded"

9. Chances

Album: Comedown Machine

Release Date: March 26, 2013

Thumbs up for Comedown Machine dreamy stuff. Love listening to this one at night.

"I take my chances alone"

8. Hard to Explain

Album: Is This It

Release Date: July 30, 2001

Such a heavy and loud song from start to finish with no room to breathe.

"Was an honest man"

7. 12:51

Album: Room On Fire

Release Date: October 28, 2003

I've read this song represents the time leading up to coitus. It feels like going out on the town.

"We could go and get forties"

6. Selfless

Album: The New Abnormal

Release Date: April 10, 2020

Some of Julian's best vocals here.

"Life is too short, but I will live for you"

5. Why Are Sundays So Depressing

Album: The New Abnormal

Release Date: April 10, 2020

Play this song while walking around town, the bpm will time up perfectly with your steps.

"Take it easy, babe"

4. Is This It

Album: Is This It

Release Date: July 30, 2001

First song of their first album. A bass line that just won't quit.

"I just lied to get to your apartment"

3. I'll Try Anything Once / You Only Live Once

Album: The Singles - Volume 1

Release Date: March 20th, 2006

Bit of a cheat putting this song since it has like three different versions, but I make the rules.

"Ten decisions shape your life."

2. 80's Comedown Machine

Album: Comedown Machine

Release Date: March 26, 2013

A really close second. This song can take me wherever I want to go.

"So please, run away."

1. Ode To The Mets

Album: The New Abnormal

Release Date: April 10, 2020

My favorite Strokes song, but also I believe it is their best. What a way to close such a great album.

"Drums please, Fab"

Extra

Honorable Mentions:

Under Cover of Darkness, Call Me Back, Razorblade, Modern Girls & Old Fashion Men, Call It Fate Call It Karma, Ask Me Anything, You Talk Way Too Much

Really sorry to these songs.

Julian singing My Way in Japanese: