Interpol, the New York City post-punk band, has carved a distinct path in the music world with their brooding, atmospheric soundscapes and hauntingly beautiful lyrics. From their early days in the early 2000s, they have captivated audiences with their intense, introspective music, often exploring themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. Their sound, heavily influenced by bands like Joy Division and The Cure, combines a sharp, angular guitar style with a deep, driving bassline and Paul Banks' distinctive, melancholic vocals. This combination has resulted in an incredibly compelling sound, one that has earned Interpol a devoted following and a place in the annals of contemporary rock music. Their music continues to resonate with listeners, offering a unique and introspective experience that transcends the boundaries of genre.
In this list, we aim to showcase some of Interpol's most outstanding work, those songs that encapsulate their diverse sonic palette and emotional depth. From the anthemic energy of their early hits to the more introspective and experimental tracks that showcase their evolution, these songs represent the band's commitment to sonic experimentation and emotional honesty. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to their world, this list offers a compelling entry point into the captivating universe of Interpol.
| Song | Album | Release | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Evil | Antics | 2004 | 33M+ |
| 2. Obstacle 1 | Turn On The Bright Lights | 2002 | 23M+ |
| 3. Slow Hands | Antics | 2004 | 13M+ |
| 4. All the Rage Back Home | El Pintor | 2014 | 29M+ |
| 5. PDA | Turn On The Bright Lights | 2002 | 3M+ |
| 6. Narc | Antics | 2004 | 4M+ |
| 7. The Rover | Marauder | 2018 | 6M+ |
1. Evil (Interpol - 1970)
The long way back ”
Song information
| ArtistInterpol | Release2004 |
| Time03:38 | View33M+ |
| Likes 340K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumAnticsListen on Spotify | |
Dive into the haunting world of Interpol with "Evil" a track that embodies the band's signature sound and remains a fan favorite. While the band has denied any relation to the infamous West murders, "Evil" undeniably evokes a chilling atmosphere, perhaps stemming from the music video's unsettling imagery featuring a life-sized animatronic puppet named "Norman" in a hospital emergency room. The song's haunting melody, driven by a powerful bassline and atmospheric guitar work, is a testament to Interpol's ability to craft dark and evocative soundscapes, leaving a lasting impression on listeners.
"Evil" became a chart-topping hit, reaching the top 20 in the UK and earning recognition on Billboard's Modern Rock Tracks chart. It's a testament to Interpol's ability to balance raw emotion with a chillingly captivating sound, creating a track that has resonated with audiences for over a decade. If you're a fan of Interpol, or are simply looking for a song that blends an atmospheric soundscape with a driving beat, "Evil" is an absolute must-listen.
2. Obstacle 1 (Turn On The Bright Lights)
We can cap the old times, make playing only logical harm ”
Song information
| ArtistInterpol | Release2002 |
| Time03:39 | View23M+ |
| Likes 150K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumTurn On The Bright LightsListen on Spotify | |
'Obstacle 1' by Interpol has a haunting quality that lingers long after the last note fades. It's a song that captures the raw, introspective energy of a band at the peak of their powers. Paul Banks' distinctive baritone voice delivers lyrics that are both personal and universal, exploring themes of self-destruction, longing, and the passage of time. The driving bassline, atmospheric guitars, and driving rhythm create a sonic landscape that is both mesmerizing and unsettling, a hallmark of the band's signature sound.
'Obstacle 1' is often cited as one of Interpol's most impactful songs, a testament to its enduring appeal. It's a perfect blend of their signature sound and lyrical depth, showcasing their ability to craft music that is both intensely personal and relatable. The song's raw emotion and haunting melody make it an instant favorite among fans, solidifying its place as one of Interpol's most enduring classics, and a must-listen for anyone exploring their rich catalog.
3. Rest My Chemistry (Interpol - 1970)
I've bathed in nothing but sweat ”
Song information
| ArtistInterpol | Release2007 |
| Time05:02 | View13M+ |
| Likes 78K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumOur Love To AdmireListen on Spotify | |
"Rest My Chemistry" from Interpol's 2007 album "Our Love to Admire," is a song that embodies the band's signature sound. Paul Banks' distinctive baritone vocals, laden with emotion, paint a vivid picture of addiction and its toll. The driving bassline, atmospheric guitars, and steady rhythm create a sense of urgency and tension, mirroring the narrator's struggle. This song is not simply about addiction; it's a meditation on the desire for escape and the longing for something beyond the chaos of life.
"Rest My Chemistry" stands out as a highlight of Interpol's discography due to its raw emotional honesty and the way it weaves together the band's trademark sonic textures. The song's ability to evoke a range of emotions, from despair to hope, has resonated with listeners for over a decade, making it a quintessential Interpol track. It is a testament to the band's talent for crafting music that is both deeply personal and universally relatable, solidifying its place on any list of the best Interpol songs.
4. C'mere (Interpol - 1970)
To be this locked inside ourselves ”
Song information
| ArtistInterpol | Release2004 |
| Time03:16 | View14M+ |
| Likes 89K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumAnticsListen on Spotify | |
"C'mere" by Interpol isn't just a song; it's an emotional punch to the gut, a testament to the raw power of longing and the bittersweet ache of unrequited love. Paul Banks' distinctive, almost-whispered vocals, laden with a melancholic urgency, draw the listener into the song's heart, capturing the feeling of being trapped in a cycle of desire and frustration. Interpol's signature sound – the driving basslines, the atmospheric guitars, the driving rhythm – provides a potent backdrop, creating a sonic landscape that's both claustrophobic and intensely intimate.
"C'mere" stands out on the "Antics" album for its emotional intensity and vulnerability. It captures a universal experience – that feeling of being deeply connected to someone, yet unable to bridge the gap between desire and reality. It became a fan favorite, partly due to its raw honesty and relatable themes, and solidified Interpol's place in the post-punk revival movement. Whether you're experiencing a heartbreak or simply seeking a song that understands the complexities of human connection, "C'mere" offers a powerful and timeless reflection on the bittersweet nature of love and longing.
5. Slow Hands (Interpol)
Nobody cares somehow ”
Song information
| ArtistInterpol | Release2004 |
| Time03:02 | View13M+ |
| Likes 93K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumAnticsListen on Spotify | |
"Slow Hands" is a quintessential Interpol track, showcasing the band's signature sound with Paul Banks' distinctive baritone vocals weaving through driving basslines, atmospheric guitars, and a relentless rhythm section. The song's dark and melancholic atmosphere is punctuated by Banks' evocative lyrics, exploring themes of love, loss, and the emotional wasteland that comes with a broken heart. The line "we rejoice because the hurting is so painless from the distance of passing cars" encapsulates the song's melancholic beauty, showcasing Interpol's talent for capturing raw emotion and translating it into potent musical imagery.
The song's impact on the band's legacy is undeniable. Released as the lead single from their critically acclaimed 2004 album "Antics," "Slow Hands" solidified Interpol's position as a major force in the post-punk revival movement. The song's popularity helped catapult the album to commercial success, reaching #15 on Billboard's Alternative Songs chart and becoming a fan favorite. "Slow Hands" is a powerful example of Interpol at their best, offering a potent blend of their signature sound and emotionally charged lyrics, and a must-listen for anyone seeking the best of Interpol's discography.
6. All the Rage Back Home (El Pintor)
My head abounds ”
Song information
| ArtistInterpol | Release2014 |
| Time04:24 | View29M+ |
| Likes 159K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumEl PintorListen on Spotify | |
Released in 2014 as the lead single from Interpol's fifth album, El Pintor, "All the Rage Back Home" encapsulates the band's signature sound, a potent blend of post-punk revival energy and melancholic introspection. Paul Banks' distinctive vocals, layered over driving basslines and atmospheric guitars, create a sense of urgency that mirrors the song's lyrical themes of personal struggle and societal turmoil. Though "All the Rage Back Home" may not have achieved chart-topping success, its critical reception and fan acclaim cemented its place as a highlight of Interpol's later work.
The song’s impact stems from its ability to capture the raw emotion of a relationship at its breaking point, set against a backdrop of broader societal anxieties. The tension builds throughout the song, mirroring the rising tide of inner turmoil, culminating in a cathartic release in the powerful chorus. "All the Rage Back Home" showcases Interpol at their most raw and emotionally charged, making it a compelling listen for fans seeking that signature blend of driving rhythms, poignant lyrics, and a dark, introspective atmosphere.
7. Untitled (Interpol)
I will surprise you sometime, I'll come around ”
Song information
| ArtistInterpol | Release2002 |
| Time03:46 | View1M+ |
| Likes 9K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumTurn On The Bright LightsListen on Spotify | |
"Untitled" the opening track from Interpol's debut album Turn on the Bright Lights, is a quintessential example of the band's signature sound. Paul Banks' distinctive baritone vocals, layered over the driving basslines and atmospheric guitars, create a haunting and introspective atmosphere that is instantly recognizable as Interpol. The song's repeated lyric, "Surprise sometimes will come around," captures the uncertainty and existential angst that permeates much of Interpol's work, while the melancholic melody underscores a sense of longing and vulnerability.
The track's impact is undeniable. It's a fan favorite, often included in their live sets, and served as a powerful introduction for new listeners. "Untitled" has become a symbol of Interpol's enduring legacy, showcasing their ability to create music that is both sonically captivating and emotionally resonant. For anyone seeking to understand the essence of Interpol's sound, "Untitled" is an essential starting point, a perfect blend of their signature sound and a deeply affecting melody that resonates long after the final note fades.
8. PDA (2002)
That I could ever subscribe to ”
Song information
| ArtistInterpol | Release2002 |
| Time03:18 | View3M+ |
| Likes 26K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumTurn On The Bright LightsListen on Spotify | |
With its driving bassline, atmospheric guitar riffs, and Paul Banks' distinctive, brooding vocals, "PDA" perfectly captures the essence of Interpol's signature sound. The song's melancholic tone and lyrics, which delve into the aftermath of a relationship gone sour, evoke a sense of both longing and frustration, perfectly capturing the raw emotions that permeate much of Interpol's work. "PDA" stands out as a compelling early example of the band's signature sound, establishing their distinct aesthetic and lyrical depth from the very beginning of their career.
While it may not have achieved widespread commercial success, "PDA" has become a fan favorite and a staple at Interpol concerts, highlighting the band's ability to create music that resonates deeply with their audience. The song's timeless themes of love, loss, and regret make it a relatable and enduring track, ensuring its place on any "best of" list for Interpol fans seeking to experience the band's raw, emotive, and undeniably cool sound.
9. The Heinrich Maneuver (Interpol)
I hear you're moving real fine ”
Song information
| ArtistInterpol | Release2007 |
| Time03:36 | View6M+ |
| Likes 33K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumOur Love To AdmireListen on Spotify | |
In a musical landscape often dominated by fleeting trends, Interpol's "The Heinrich Maneuver" stands as a testament to enduring, timeless rock. Released in 2007 as the lead single from their acclaimed album Our Love to Admire, the song showcases the band's signature sonic tapestry: Paul Banks' brooding vocals, a driving rhythm section, and atmospheric guitar lines that weave a spellbinding soundscape. "The Heinrich Maneuver" is more than just another Interpol track; it's a powerful statement of the band's evolution, pushing their sound to new heights while retaining the core elements that made them a force to be reckoned with.
The song's impact is evident in its chart performance, reaching the top 15 on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart and earning the band their first entry on the Billboard Hot 100. Its catchy melody and emotionally resonant lyrics, exploring themes of heartbreak and disillusionment, resonate deeply with listeners, making "The Heinrich Maneuver" a fan favorite and a testament to Interpol's enduring appeal. For anyone seeking the best of Interpol, this song is a must-listen, showcasing the band's ability to craft both anthemic rock tracks and introspective explorations of the human condition.
10. Narc (2004)
Remember that last sweat, 'cause that was the right one ”
Song information
| ArtistInterpol | Release2004 |
| Time04:08 | View4M+ |
| Likes 31K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumAnticsListen on Spotify | |
"Narc" a brooding masterpiece from Interpol's 2004 album Antics, exemplifies the band's signature sound with its driving basslines, atmospheric guitars, and Paul Banks' distinctive, impassioned vocals. The song's lyrics delve into themes of desire, control, and manipulation, echoing the band's penchant for dark, introspective storytelling. "Narc" meaning 'narcotics' and referring to an informant, adds a layer of intrigue and mystery to the song's narrative.
As a crucial track on a critically acclaimed album, "Narc" solidified Interpol's position as a leading force in the post-punk revival movement. It's a potent blend of their signature sonic landscape and an emotionally charged narrative that has resonated deeply with fans and critics alike. Its combination of catchy melody and haunting lyrics makes it a compelling listening experience that deserves a place on any "best of" Interpol list.
11. The Rover (Marauder)
But I can keep you in artwork, the fluid kind ”
Song information
| ArtistInterpol | Release2018 |
| Time03:38 | View6M+ |
| Likes 48K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumMarauderListen on Spotify | |
"The Rover" by Interpol, the lead single from their 2018 album "Marauder," stands as a testament to the band's enduring sound and captivating lyrical depth. While the song charted at number 35 on the Mexico Ingles Airplay chart, its impact extends beyond commercial success. "The Rover" embodies Interpol's signature blend of atmospheric guitars, driving basslines, and Paul Banks' distinctive, brooding vocals. The lyrics, as seen in fan comments, resonate with themes of self-reliance, navigating uncertainty, and the raw emotions that accompany personal journeys, making it a deeply relatable track for listeners.
Interpol frontman Paul Banks described the music video as a "political love letter to Mexico City," further demonstrating the band's connection to the city. "The Rover" is a prime example of Interpol's ability to create music that is both intensely personal and universally appealing. It's a song that invites listeners to immerse themselves in its layered sonic landscape, making it a compelling addition to any "best of" Interpol list.
12. Leif Erikson (Interpol)
Her rabid glow is like braille to the night ”
Song information
| ArtistInterpol | Release2002 |
| Time04:00 | View3M+ |
| Likes 19K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumTurn On The Bright LightsListen on Spotify | |
"Leif Erikson" the final track on Interpol's groundbreaking debut album, "Turn On the Bright Lights," is more than just a song; it's a haunting sonic journey that embodies the band's signature sound. Paul Banks's distinctive, baritone vocals weave a tale of love, loss, and introspection, while the driving basslines, atmospheric guitars, and propulsive rhythm section create a sonic landscape both familiar and intoxicating. This closing track is an excellent demonstration of Interpol’s ability to create atmospheric music that is both brooding and beautiful.
"Leif Erikson" is a quintessential Interpol song, showcasing the band's mastery of creating music that is both catchy and contemplative. It's a perfect example of their ability to create a distinct mood, and for fans searching for the best of Interpol, "Leif Erikson" delivers the band's signature sound with both raw emotion and a driving pulse.
13. Pioneer To The Falls (Interpol - 1970)
Three stowaways ”
Song information
| ArtistInterpol | Release2007 |
| Time05:43 | View3M+ |
| Likes 29K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumOur Love To AdmireListen on Spotify | |
"Pioneer to the Falls" from Interpol's 2007 album Our Love to Admire isn't just a standout track; it's a potent distillation of everything that makes Interpol unique. The song opens with a stark, almost cinematic atmosphere, fueled by the band's signature driving basslines and atmospheric guitars, creating a sonic landscape that's both alluring and unsettling. Paul Banks' baritone vocals, echoing the dark lyricism, perfectly embody that signature Interpol sound. The haunting trumpet melody that weaves through the song only adds to its somber, almost funereal tone, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
"Pioneer to the Falls" is widely considered one of Interpol's most powerful and evocative songs, and for good reason. It's a perfect example of the band's ability to blend melody and mood, creating a track that is both accessible and intensely atmospheric. Its impact is evident in its position as the opening track of Our Love to Admire, setting the tone for an album that solidified Interpol's place as one of the most important and influential alternative bands of the 21st century. Fans seeking the quintessential Interpol sound need look no further than this immersive and darkly beautiful masterpiece.
14. Stella was a diver and she was always down (2002)
She knows there's people watching ”
Song information
| ArtistInterpol | Release2002 |
| Time06:29 | View5M+ |
| Likes 32K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumTurn On The Bright LightsListen on Spotify | |
In a music scene dominated by catchy pop hooks and electronic beats, Interpol's "Stella Was a Diver and She Was Always Down" emerged as a powerful counterpoint, offering a dark and atmospheric soundscape that resonated with a generation seeking something more complex and introspective. The song embodies the band's signature sound, with Paul Banks' baritone vocals weaving a captivating narrative over driving basslines and atmospheric guitar chords that create a sense of tension and unease. "Stella" is not just a song, it's a journey into the depths of human emotion, a melancholy exploration of despair and the struggle to find solace amidst life's complexities.
This track, hailing from Interpol's 2002 debut album Turn On the Bright Lights, is often cited as a defining moment in their career, a testament to their ability to create haunting and evocative music. Its intricate lyrics, layered instrumentation, and introspective tone have cemented its place as a fan favorite and a cornerstone of Interpol's catalog. "Stella Was a Diver and She Was Always Down" serves as a perfect entry point for those seeking a deeper exploration of Interpol's artistry, offering a captivating blend of their signature sound and a captivating story that continues to resonate with listeners years later.
15. If You Really Love Nothing (Marauder)
On what future do we build illusions? ”
Song information
| ArtistInterpol | Release2018 |
| Time05:03 | View9M+ |
| Likes 103K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumMarauderListen on Spotify | |
'If You Really Love Nothing' from Interpol's 2018 album 'Marauder' is a quintessential Interpol track, weaving together the band's signature sound with a raw emotional intensity. Paul Banks' distinctive vocals, delivered with a cool detachment, carry lyrics that delve into disillusionment and the consequences of emotional apathy, a recurring theme in Interpol's work. The song is driven by a propulsive rhythm section, anchored by a driving bassline that creates a hypnotic effect. This rhythmic core is further enhanced by atmospheric guitars that build tension and create an overall sense of unease, a hallmark of the band's sonic landscape.
Though not a chart-topper, 'If You Really Love Nothing' has earned a place in the hearts of many Interpol fans, particularly those who appreciate the band's more introspective side. It showcases the band's ability to craft compelling music that is both sonically engaging and emotionally resonant. The song's introspective lyrics, paired with its driving sound, make it a perfect example of Interpol's distinct style and why it deserves a place on any "best of" list.
16. Say Hello to the Angels (Interpol - 1970)
I know there's such a place ”
Song information
| ArtistInterpol | Release2002 |
| Time04:28 | View134K+ |
| Likes 2K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumTurn On The Bright LightsListen on Spotify | |
"Say Hello to the Angels" from Interpol's groundbreaking debut album "Turn on the Bright Lights," is a track that embodies the band's signature sound. Paul Banks' distinctive vocals, cool and detached, are interwoven with the band's signature driving basslines and atmospheric guitar work, creating a sonic landscape that is both captivating and unsettling. The lyrics, steeped in themes of obsession and emotional turmoil, offer a glimpse into a world where longing and uncertainty intertwine, leaving the listener with a lingering sense of unease.
The song's impact is undeniable. It helped establish Interpol as a leading force in the post-punk revival movement, captivating audiences with its raw energy and introspective lyrics. The track's enduring popularity, evident in the consistent inclusion on "best of" lists and its widespread recognition among fans, speaks to its enduring power. For anyone seeking a taste of Interpol's essential sound, "Say Hello to the Angels" is a must-listen. Its perfect blend of atmospheric intensity and driving rhythm make it a standout track that perfectly encapsulates the band's artistic vision.
17. Take You on a Cruise (Interpol - 1970)
Song information
| ArtistInterpol | Release2004 |
| Time04:55 | View2M+ |
| Likes 19K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumAnticsListen on Spotify | |
What happens when Interpol's signature sound of brooding guitars, driving basslines, and Paul Banks' distinctive vocals are combined with a touch of melancholic romance? You get "Take You on a Cruise" a song that encapsulates everything that makes Interpol, well, Interpol. It's a driving, hypnotic track that perfectly balances their signature atmospheric moodiness with a catchy melody that lingers long after the last note fades.
"Take You on a Cruise" stands out for its ability to seamlessly blend Interpol's signature sound with a touch of vulnerability. While maintaining the band's characteristic dark and brooding atmosphere, the song features a more introspective lyrical theme, exploring the complexities of love and longing. This combination of raw emotion and powerful musicality makes it a fan favorite and a compelling addition to any "best of" Interpol list.
18. Not Even Jail (Interpol - 1970)
I'll lay down in houses ”
Song information
| ArtistInterpol | Release2004 |
| Time05:47 | View3M+ |
| Likes 19K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumAnticsListen on Spotify | |
Dive into the brooding world of Interpol with "Not Even Jail" a standout track from their critically acclaimed 2004 album, "Antics." This song embodies the band's signature sound, with Paul Banks' distinctive baritone vocals weaving a haunting narrative over a bed of atmospheric guitars and driving rhythms. "Not Even Jail" captures the band's ability to create a sonic landscape that is both unsettling and captivating, a hallmark of their post-punk revival style.
The song's complex lyrics, born from free associative writing sessions, further deepen its intrigue. While their meaning remains open to interpretation, "Not Even Jail" resonates with themes of emotional struggle and the desire for change, evoking a sense of yearning that is both relatable and deeply affecting. This track serves as a compelling example of Interpol's artistry, offering a glimpse into their unique ability to blend dark and melancholic themes with a driving, energetic soundscape. It's a must-listen for any fan of Interpol's signature sound, offering a poignant and evocative experience.
19. NYC (Interpol - 1970)
Thought I knew which one to wear ”
Song information
| ArtistInterpol | Release2002 |
| Time03:41 | View1M+ |
| Likes 15K+ | SuitableIndie music fans |
- Indie Rock
- Post-Punk Revival
- Dance-Punk
- Interpol
"NYC" a standout track from Interpol's debut album, "Turn On the Bright Lights," exemplifies the band's signature sound with its brooding atmosphere and Paul Banks' iconic baritone vocals. The song's driving bassline and atmospheric guitars create a tense and introspective sonic landscape, mirroring the raw emotions and distinct atmosphere of post-9/11 New York City. "NYC" captures the city's influence on the band's music and artistic expression, offering a stark and unflinching perspective on urban alienation and the search for meaning in a chaotic environment.
This track holds a significant place in Interpol's legacy, solidifying their status as a key band of the early 2000s indie rock scene. While "NYC" may not be the band's most commercially successful song, it resonates with listeners for its raw honesty and its ability to evoke the city's complex energy. The lyrics, particularly the line "spending these lonely nights training myself not to care," capture the universal feeling of trying to find solace amidst the urban chaos, making it a relatable and emotionally resonant experience for many listeners.
20. Lights
Show me your ways ”
Song information
| ArtistInterpol | Release2010 |
| Time05:17 | View6M+ |
| Likes 31K+ | SuitableIndie Music Enthusiasts |
- Alternative rock
- Indie Rock
- Post-Punk
- Dance-Punk
- Slowcore
"Lights" is a standout track from Interpol's self-titled fourth album, showcasing the band's signature sound with a distinct edge. Paul Banks' distinctive baritone vocals, layered with atmospheric guitars and driving basslines, create an undeniable tension that builds throughout the song. The track's progressive structure, with its gradual increase in power and intensity, is reminiscent of "Hands Away" from their critically acclaimed album "Turn On the Bright Lights," solidifying Interpol's ability to craft songs that both captivate and resonate.
"Lights" is a prime example of Interpol's mastery of atmospheric rock, weaving together elements of post-punk and gothic sensibilities. The lyrics, hinting at themes of obsession and societal alienation, add depth to the song's sonic landscape. While "Lights" may not be as widely known as some of Interpol's earlier hits, its inclusion on a "best of" list is well-deserved. It encapsulates the band's evolution, demonstrating their ability to explore new sonic territories while retaining their core sound.