The Strokes
Angles

Neither fish nor fowl my angst does not decrease! Indeed, because with this fourth album, the Strokes have given premature conclusions about their creativity, in fact, they could easily stop, disband, and start solo careers, even though "Angles" is a work just barely sufficient and nothing more. Perhaps a bit superior to the previous "First Impressions Of Earth," which turned out too shiny and ultimately boring, but even this without infamy and without praise, perhaps only for a clear stylistic turn towards the '80s. Anyway, it seems a bit too little after five years with the birth of this product, Casablancas and company could have expressed their capabilities in another direction even with the fear of getting lost and taking some risks. But they didn't! "Angles" adds a little something to their production but "Is This It" always remains the reference point; just one CD is enough to fully understand the world of The Strokes.

This fourth album still features their usual biting riffs, the lyrics of the songs are always good, and the melodies always beautiful. The novelty is the presence of synthesizers but the pop sound is very much present. The most significant tracks are the funky "Machu Picchu," the engaging "Under Cover Of Darkness," and the compelling "Two Kinds Of Happiness." The rest falls into the false line of the second half of "First Impressions Of Earth."

Giving a failing grade to this record seemed a bit too much, however, it's pointless for this band to continue making albums at this level. It's clear they need a radical change or perhaps a complete disbandment. These four albums can be deemed acceptable overall, maybe they can release a live album since they're good at it, but then that's it.