The Strokes have emerged this past year as one of my favorite bands. Just the other day, after picking up their third album, Impressions Of Earth, I came to the conclusion that these guys are battery acid bad. Half the time I dont know what their singer is saying--either that or its too poetic to register in my simple brain; but what I do know is this, the music is stunning.

Their musical ideas remind me much of the late 80s underground scene, bands such as the Pixies and Pavement. On another positive note, the band is one of the tightest around today, up there with System Of A Down. They are an exceptionally creative and innovative band, yet simple.

The Strokes first album, Is This It?, hit the charts a few years ago, and since then, they have pumped out two clever and rockin albums, Room On Fire and recently--this month--Impressions Of Earth.

The new album has been deemed by many as the most rockin yet. Id have to agree, although I think its their most creative one. Its not often you find an album that is both artistic and wailing.

Compared to the other two albums, Impressions Of Earth strays away from the constant two-chord progressions (you fans know what Im talking about). Each song has rip-ass guitar parts, and the drums are more experimental. The singer lets it all hang out in this album.

I dont know how Id compare the overall sound of the new album. If youve heard the first albums, think those two mixed with some really raw but innovative sounds. Ive been listening to the new album constantly, digging every minute, but I still have to say Room On Fire is my fave.

You know, though, that one grew on me, and so--who knows--Impressions Of Earth could outgrow it in time.