Given the relatively short turnaround since the Strokes released the disappointing "Angles", the band's new album was approached with skepticism. But "Comedown Machine" proved the band has regained their unity and developed in their composition. The album alternates between the familiar garage–y, new wave style and a mellower, more complex one. The first track evokes the latter, introducing a fresh element that reappear throughout the album. On the other hand, songs like “One Way Trigger” reflect the recognizable Strokes sound spiced with a more pronounced tribute to '80s rock. Though still not as ground–breaking as their debut, "Comedown Machine" shows the Strokes are at once returning to their roots while very much still maturing.
GRADE: A–
Sounds best when: Pondering life as David Bowie while high
99-Cent Download: “One Way Trigger”
