The Strokes

Introduction

The Strokes are an American rock band formed in New York City in 1998. The group consists of Julian Casablancas (lead vocals), Nick Valensi (guitar, backing vocals), Albert Hammond Jr. (guitar, backing vocals), Nikolai Fraiture (bass guitar), and Fabrizio Moretti (drums, percussion). The band is often credited with leading the revival of garage rock and post-punk music in the early 2000s.

Formation and Early Years (1998-2000)

The Strokes were formed by Julian Casablancas, who met guitarist Nick Valensi and drummer Fabrizio Moretti while attending Dwight School in Manhattan. Casablancas later met guitarist Albert Hammond Jr. at the Lycée Français de New York, and bassist Nikolai Fraiture at Le Rosey, a boarding school in Switzerland. The band began rehearsing together in 1998, initially playing covers of songs by bands such as The Velvet Underground and The Ramones.

Breakthrough and Debut Album: "Is This It" (2001)

The Strokes released their debut album, "Is This It," in 2001. The album was produced by Gordon Raphael and recorded at Transporterraum in New York City. "Is This It" received widespread critical acclaim and is often cited as one of the greatest albums of the 2000s. The album's raw, minimalist sound and Casablancas' distinctive vocal style helped define the band's identity. Key tracks from the album include "Last Nite," "Someday," and "Hard to Explain."

The Strokes performing live on stage, with Julian Casablancas singing and the band playing their instruments.

Musical Style and Influences

The Strokes' music is characterized by its raw, energetic sound, which draws heavily from garage rock, post-punk, and new wave influences. The band's early work is often compared to that of The Velvet Underground, Television, and The Stooges. Casablancas' vocal delivery is often described as detached and nonchalant, adding to the band's distinctive style. The Strokes have also cited influences from bands such as The Cars, Guided by Voices, and The Modern Lovers.

Subsequent Albums and Evolution (2003-2010)

Following the success of "Is This It," The Strokes released their second album, "Room on Fire," in 2003. The album continued the band's signature sound but incorporated more polished production. Notable tracks include "Reptilia," "12:51," and "Under Control." In 2006, the band released their third album, "First Impressions of Earth," which marked a departure from their earlier sound, featuring more complex arrangements and a darker tone. Key tracks from this album include "Juicebox," "Heart in a Cage," and "You Only Live Once."

Hiatus and Side Projects (2011-2012)

After the release of "First Impressions of Earth," The Strokes took a hiatus, during which members pursued various side projects. Julian Casablancas released a solo album, "Phrazes for the Young," in 2009. Albert Hammond Jr. released two solo albums, "Yours to Keep" (2006) and "¿Cómo Te Llama?" (2008). Fabrizio Moretti formed the band Little Joy, and Nick Valensi played with the band CRX.

Return and Later Albums (2013-Present)

The Strokes returned in 2011 with their fourth album, "Angles," which featured a more collaborative writing process. The album received mixed reviews but included notable tracks such as "Under Cover of Darkness" and "Taken for a Fool." In 2013, the band released "Comedown Machine," which continued to explore new musical directions. In 2020, The Strokes released their sixth album, "The New Abnormal," produced by Rick Rubin. The album received critical acclaim and won the Grammy Award for Best Rock Album.

Legacy and Impact

The Strokes are widely regarded as one of the most influential bands of the 21st century. Their debut album, "Is This It," is often credited with revitalizing the garage rock and post-punk revival movements. The band's minimalist sound and Casablancas' distinctive vocal style have influenced numerous artists, including Arctic Monkeys, The Killers, and Kings of Leon. The Strokes' impact on the music industry extends beyond their sound, as they have also been noted for their fashion sense and cultural influence.

References

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