The worst part about Interpol is the endless comparison to Joy Division. Originality is overrated. Sure, Joy Division was pretty good, but the production hasn't really aged well and they aren't really as awesome as their best songs make people think they are. Sorry kids, Interpol just does it better.
What Interpol does best is create a certain atmosphere; the bassline is steady and brooding, the lyrics sound morose even when the content is optimistic. It's amazing to me that bands can be equally adept technically and use the same instruments and basic song structures, but sound complettely different. You'd never confuse Interpol with, say, Phoenix. Turn On the Bright Lights is perfect for a solitary drive on a rainy day.
Listen:
Interpol - Untitled
Interpol - The New