22Twenty Launches Familiar Strangers Vol. 1: Is This It
The compilation reimagines every track from The Strokes' 2001 debut album, with eleven artists each covering one song.
Updated on Nov. 4, 2026 in Alternative
22Twenty has announced Familiar Strangers Vol. 1: Is This It, a compilation in which eleven artists each reinterpret one song from The Strokes' debut album. The release launches December 4 and marks the album's 25th anniversary.
Why it matters
The project reframes a landmark indie rock record through a range of international and independent artists, offering listeners a fresh perspective on an album that shaped the genre. Proceeds from the release will also support youth mental health work.
The compilation features 11 artists, one per track, marking 25 years since Is This It was released in 2001. Participating artists are based in Paris, New York, Australia and other locations, and the complete artist lineup has not yet been detailed.
The players
22Twenty
A New York-based music organization behind the Familiar Strangers compilation series, which reinterprets landmark albums in full.
The Strokes
A New York rock band whose 2001 debut album Is This It became a defining record of the early-2000s indie rock revival.
Sounds Of Saving
A youth mental health nonprofit rooted in music culture that receives a portion of the compilation's proceeds.
The details
Each contributor takes one song from The Strokes' debut and creates a track-by-track reimagining through their own musical perspective. Sam and Louise Sullivan previewed their interpretation of 'Trying Your Luck' on the announcement date, and a portion of proceeds will benefit Sounds Of Saving, a youth mental health nonprofit rooted in music culture.
Timeline
2001: The Strokes release Is This It.
November 4, 2026: 22Twenty announces the series and shares the Sullivans' first track.
December 4, 2026: Familiar Strangers Vol. 1: Is This It launches.
Industry Dynamics
The project follows a growing pattern of tribute and reinterpretation records that revisit anniversary milestones of influential albums. By pairing each song with a different contemporary artist, Familiar Strangers treats Is This It as a living catalog rather than a fixed artifact.
Listeners can access the compilation when it launches December 4, with the full track lineup to be revealed ahead of release. Purchases will support Sounds Of Saving, giving fans a direct way to contribute to youth mental health programs.
The takeaway
Reinterpretation projects like Familiar Strangers show how a 25-year-old album can be reheard through new voices. Fans interested in the series can watch for the full tracklist ahead of the December launch.
What happens next
Familiar Strangers Vol. 1: Is This It launches December 4, 2026, and further installments of the series are expected.
Further reading
For more on independent rock reinterpretations, explore our Alternative coverage.
