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If The Strokes made New York rock fun again, Interpol made it beautiful and a little haunted. Their sharp suits, interlocking guitars and Paul Banks’ deep, detached vocals drew comparisons to Joy Division, but the band built a sound that was entirely its own. Their 2002 debut is one of the defining albums of the post-punk revival, and they remain a major live draw today.
| Formed | 1997, New York City |
| Members | Paul Banks (vocals, guitar, bass since 2010), Daniel Kessler (guitar), Sam Fogarino (drums) |
| Former member | Carlos Dengler (bass, 1997–2010) |
| Genres | Post-punk revival, indie rock |
| Label | Matador |
Guitarist Daniel Kessler started Interpol while studying at New York University, recruiting Carlos Dengler, Paul Banks and drummer Greg Drudy. Sam Fogarino replaced Drudy in 2000. After a few self-released EPs and a Peel Session in the U.K., the band signed with Matador Records.
Moody, precise and romantic, this is Interpol’s masterpiece. “Obstacle 1,” “PDA,” “NYC” and “Untitled” capture post-9/11 New York with a cinematic chill.
Brighter and more danceable, with “Evil,” “Slow Hands” and “C’mere.” It became their biggest commercial success.
Their major-label album on Capitol, grander and more layered. Start with “The Heinrich Maneuver” and “Rest My Chemistry.”
Dengler’s final album with the band; Banks has handled bass on record since.
The three-piece era. El Pintor (an anagram of “Interpol”) was a strong return, with “All the Rage Back Home.” Marauder was rawer, and The Other Side of Make-Believe more reflective.
Banks’ baritone, cryptic lyrics and cool delivery are central to Interpol’s identity. He has also recorded solo, including under the name Julian Plenti, and with RZA as Banks & Steelz.
Daniel Kessler’s precise, chiming guitar lines weave around Banks’ parts and the band’s driving rhythm section. The result is spacious and tense at the same time, and it influenced many later bands, including White Lies and Editors.
Interpol continue to tour widely. In fall 2026 they are touring the U.S. with shoegaze favorites DIIV. See our upcoming alternative concerts guide for dates.
The Strokes, White Lies, Editors, The National, Joy Division, The Chameleons and DIIV.
In 1997 in New York City.
Turn On the Bright Lights (2002).
Paul Banks, Daniel Kessler and Sam Fogarino. Bassist Carlos Dengler left in 2010.
Yes. They tour regularly; see our concert guide.
Interpol’s dark, driving guitars are a natural fit next to the new post-punk bands we play every day. Catch it on The Modern Rock Radio Show, check the radio show schedule, or press play on the live stream. Want a specific song? Send a request or dedication.
About this article: Written and fact-checked by The Alternative One editorial team, the programmers and music writers behind the station’s on-air shows. Official artist website: www.interpolnyc.com. Last reviewed October 2, 2026. Read our editorial standards or tell us about a correction.
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