Strokes

Strokes Top Songs

Hard To Explain/New York City Cops (11|2|418)	Is This It (5|1|186)
Modern Age (7|2|193)	Last Nite (17|3|794)

The Strokes emerged in the early 2000s as one of the most influential rock bands of their era, credited with revitalizing the rock genre and leading the charge of the garage rock revival. Formed in New York City in 1998, the band consists of Julian Casablancas (vocals), Nick Valensi (guitar), Albert Hammond Jr. (guitar), Nikolai Fraiture (bass), and Fabrizio Moretti (drums). Their debut album, “Is This It,” released in 2001, is often cited as a landmark in modern rock music.

Early Beginnings and Breakthrough

The Strokes’ journey began in the heart of Manhattan, where the members, many of whom were childhood friends, started crafting their distinctive sound. Their early shows in New York City’s underground music scene quickly garnered attention, and by 2001, the band released their debut album “Is This It.” The album was an instant hit, lauded for its raw, minimalist production and catchy, melodic hooks. The singles “Last Nite,” “Someday,” and “Hard to Explain” became anthems of the era, helping the band establish themselves as the face of a new wave of rock.

“Is This It” was not only a commercial success but also a critical darling, appearing on numerous “best of” lists for the decade. The album’s impact was so profound that it is often credited with sparking the resurgence of interest in rock music at a time when pop and hip-hop were dominating the charts.

Continued Success and Evolution

Following the success of their debut, The Strokes released their sophomore album, “Room on Fire,” in 2003. While it didn’t reach the same groundbreaking heights as “Is This It,” the album solidified their place in the rock pantheon with hits like “Reptilia” and “12:51.” The band’s sound remained faithful to their roots, combining the grit of New York City with a polished, yet unrefined energy.

In 2006, The Strokes released “First Impressions of Earth,” an album that marked a departure from their previous work, both in sound and lyrical content. The album was darker and more experimental, with songs like “Juicebox” and “Heart in a Cage” showcasing a harder edge. While the album received mixed reviews, it demonstrated the band’s willingness to evolve and experiment with their sound.

Hiatus and Side Projects

After the release of “First Impressions of Earth,” The Strokes took a hiatus, during which members pursued various side projects. Julian Casablancas released his solo album “Phrazes for the Young” in 2009, while Albert Hammond Jr. also released solo work. These projects allowed the members to explore different musical styles and ideas, further showcasing their versatility as artists.

Return and Resurgence

In 2011, The Strokes returned with “Angles,” an album that saw them reuniting and reclaiming their place in the rock world. The lead single, “Under Cover of Darkness,” was a return to form, featuring the infectious hooks and sharp guitar work that had become their signature. The band followed up with “Comedown Machine” in 2013, an album that, while not as commercially successful, continued to push the boundaries of their sound.

After another period of relative quiet, The Strokes made a triumphant return in 2020 with “The New Abnormal,” their first album in seven years. The album was met with widespread acclaim, with tracks like “Bad Decisions” and “At the Door” resonating with both longtime fans and a new generation of listeners. “The New Abnormal” won the Grammy Award for Best Rock Album, cementing The Strokes’ legacy as one of the most important rock bands of their time.

Legacy and Influence

The Strokes’ influence on the music industry is immeasurable. Their success paved the way for a wave of rock bands in the early 2000s, including The White Stripes, The Killers, and Arctic Monkeys, who all drew inspiration from The Strokes’ minimalist approach and raw energy. The band’s aesthetic, both in sound and style, has left a lasting mark on rock music, influencing not just their contemporaries but also future generations of musicians.

As The Strokes continue to tour and make music, their legacy only grows. They remain a band that defined a generation and reshaped the landscape of modern rock music, proving that the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll is still alive and well.