Members
Julian Casablancas (vocals), Nick Valensi (guitar), Albert Hammond Jr. (guitar), Nikolai Fraiture (bass), and Fabrizio Moretti (drums)
Formation
The founding process of The Strokes was a serendipitous convergence of childhood connections and a shared musical vision. Julian Casablancas, Fabrizio Moretti, and Nick Valensi, childhood friends with varying musical experiences, came together in the late '90s. The trio's dynamic was enriched with the addition of guitarist Albert Hammond Jr. and bassist Nikolai Fraiture. Bonded by a mutual love for garage rock, punk, and new wave, the quintet officially formed The Strokes in 1998, embarking on a journey to synthesize their diverse influences into a sound that would later redefine the indie rock landscape. The amalgamation of their individual talents and shared passion for music set the stage for The Strokes' rise to prominence in the early 2000s.
Is This It (2001)
"Is This It" The Strokes" debut album released in 2001 under the reputable record label RCA, is an electrifying sonic manifesto that not only redefined the landscape of indie rock but also garnered widespread critical acclaim. Infused with a raw and unfiltered energy, the album became an instant classic, hailed for its gritty exploration of New York City's underground music scene. Featuring iconic tracks like "Last Nite" and "Someday," Julian Casablancas' charismatic vocals, Nick Valensi and Albert Hammond Jr.'s guitar interplay, and the band's overall swagger made "Is This It" a timeless masterpiece. Its critical acclaim propelled The Strokes to the forefront of the early 2000s indie rock revival, cementing their status as trailblazers in the genre.
Room On Fire (2003)
"Room On Fire" the sophomore album by The Strokes released in 2003, seamlessly follows the success of their groundbreaking debut, "Is This It" The Strokes" (2001). While "Is This It" The Strokes" quickly became a cultural touchstone and achieved widespread acclaim, "Room On Fire" faced the challenge of living up to its predecessor's legacy.
From the rhythmic urgency of "12:51" to the infectious guitar riffs of "Reptilia," each track on "Room On Fire" showcases The Strokes' continued commitment to crafting catchy, yet substantive, rock anthems. While not eclipsing the commercial success of their debut, the album solidified The Strokes' standing as stalwarts of the early 2000s rock revival, demonstrating their artistic growth and ability to sustain their unique sound.
Juicebox and First Impressions Of Earth (2005 - 2006)
"Juicebox" by The Strokes, released as a single on November 14, 2005, ahead of their album "First Impressions of Earth," faced an early online leak, adding to the anticipation. Despite this, the track's bold guitar riffs and Julian Casablancas' charismatic vocals contributed to its positive reception, marking a significant moment in The Strokes' musical journey. They also released a catchy B-side "Hawaii".
"First Impressions Of Earth" The Strokes' third studio album released in January 2006, received a mix of reviews. Critics praised the album's experimental departure from the band's earlier sound, commending Julian Casablancas' introspective lyrics, dynamic guitar work, and rhythmic innovation. Standout tracks like "Juicebox" and "You Only Live Once" showcased The Strokes' ability to evolve while retaining their signature coolness. Despite differing opinions, the album marked a bold exploration of new musical territories and sparked conversations about the band's artistic evolution within the indie rock landscape.
Angles (2011)
"Angles" released by The Strokes in 2011, is a pivotal album in the band's journey, receiving a mix of reviews. Critics lauded its experimentation and collaborative nature, showcasing a departure from their previous works. Standout tracks like "Under Cover of Darkness" and "Machu Picchu" received praise for blending The Strokes' signature sound with fresh influences. While some critics found the album's diversity refreshing, others felt it lacked cohesion. Despite mixed reviews, "Angles" signaled The Strokes' return with a revitalized energy, sparking conversations about their evolving musical direction.
Comedown Machine (2013)
"Comedown Machine" released by The Strokes in 2013, is a unique entry in their discography. The album showcases a departure from their traditional sound, embracing a more synth-driven and experimental approach. Tracks like "One Way Trigger" and "Tap Out" demonstrate The Strokes' willingness to evolve, dividing critics but still affirming their capacity for sonic exploration. "Comedown Machine" adds another layer to The Strokes' musical evolution, inviting listeners into a realm of unexpected sounds and creative divergence. The Strokes adopted a media blackout strategy, refraining from interviews and traditional promotional activities. This intentional approach added an air of mystery to the album's release, sparking curiosity and discussions about the band's creative intentions.
Future Present Past EP (2016)
"Future Present Past" is a 2016 EP by The Strokes, featuring tracks like "Drag Queen", "OBLIVIOUS" and "Threat Of Joy" offering a glimpse into the band's evolving sound during the period between their albums "Comedown Machine" and "The New Abnormal".
The New Abnormal (2020)
Produced by legendary music producer Rick Rubin, "The New Abnormal" is The Strokes' sixth studio album, released in 2020 after a seven-year hiatus. The album represents a return to the spotlight for the band and showcases a blend of their signature rock sound with fresh and contemporary elements. Notable tracks include "The Adults Are Talking" and "Selfless". "The New Abnormal" received critical acclaim for its maturity, experimentation, and the band's ability to evolve while staying true to their distinctive style. The album's release was a highly anticipated moment for fans, marking a successful comeback for The Strokes after their extended hiatus.
Albert Hammond Jr. confirmed, that The Strokes are working on a new album, a follow-up to the succesful "The New Abnormal".
Here are the band members' side projects along with their released albums:
Julian Casablancas:
Julian Casablancas - Phrazes For The Young (2009).The Voidz - Tyranny (2014), Virtue (2018).
Albert Hammond Jr.
Albert Hammond Jr. - Yours To Keep (2006), Como Te Llama? (2008), Momentary Masters (2016), Francis Trouble (2018).
Nick Valensi
CRX - New Skin (2016), Peek (2018).
Fabrizio Moretti
Little Joy - Little Joy (2008).machinegum - Conduit (2019).
Nikolai Fraiture
Nickel Eye - The Time Of The Assassins (2008).SUMMER MOON - With You Tonight (2017), Casino Days (2023).
Evening Sun
The Strokes Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
But they will never let you be
They'll thrill you or sedate you
But they will never let you see
In the evening sun
Amber evening sun
Encourage and derange you
Watch you walking scared alone
Despite intimidation
Pleased to watch you dance alone
In the evening sun
Amber evening sun
Go your separate way now
Someday you'll come back
And I'll be dreaming I was sunburned
I don't wanna break your heart in
Break your heart in two halves
Keep one half and give one half to me
I like the summer, miss the summer
Tell me, what'd you do? Nothing? Me, too
All actors, they're pretendin'
And singers, they will sometimes lie
Kids are always honest
'Cause they don't think they're ever gonna die
You're the prettiest, smartest captain of the team
I love you more than being seventeen
In the evening sun
Amber evening sun
In the evening sun
The Strokes’ “Evening Sun” is a melancholic yet introspective song that touches on themes of love, fame, and isolation. The song speaks of people's perception of the singer, living under public scrutiny. "They love you or they hate you, but they will never let you be" refers to the constant attention and judgment one faces when in the public eye. Despite this, the singer acknowledges that people can make the individual feel alive or numb. "They'll thrill you or sedate you, but they will never let you see" implies that people have power over emotions, and at times, they can make one feel numb.
The singer speaks of being encouraged or deranged by people, watching them walk alone or dance alone despite feeling intimidated. This is a comment on how the singer is both inspired and consumed by people's actions, even if they are negative. The evening sun seems to be a meditative moment where the singer is contemplating the complexity of human behavior and his role in it. The song ends with a wishful tone, wishing to keep one half of someone's heart, and dreaming of being sunburned. This signifies a desire to be close to someone, to feel a sense of warmth and love. The last line, "I like the summer, miss the summer. Tell me, what'd you do? Nothing? Me, too," speaks of a nostalgia for simpler times.
Line by Line Meaning
They love you or they hate you
People either adore or despise you
But they will never let you be
However, they will never allow you to be content
They'll thrill you or sedate you
They can either excite or depress you
But they will never let you see
Nonetheless, they will never allow you to truly understand
In the evening sun
As daylight fades into the night
Amber evening sun
The sunset colors the sky in shades of orange
Encourage and derange you
They may motivate or upset you
Watch you walking scared alone
Observe you moving nervously by yourself
Despite intimidation
Regardless of any intimidation tactics
Pleased to watch you dance alone
Delighted to witness you dance all alone
Go your separate way now
Part ways for now
Someday you'll come back
You'll return someday
And I'll be dreaming I was sunburned
And I'll be longing for the warmth of the sun on my skin
I don't wanna break your heart in
I don't wish to hurt you
Break your heart in two halves
Cause you to feel extreme sadness
Keep one half and give one half to me
Take some of the burden and share it with me
I like the summer, miss the summer
I enjoy the summertime, but I also long for it
Tell me, what'd you do? Nothing? Me, too
What did you do? Nothing? The same here
All actors, they're pretendin'
Actors are just pretending
And singers, they will sometimes lie
Singers are also capable of dishonesty
Kids are always honest
Children are always truthful
'Cause they don't think they're ever gonna die
Since they don't comprehend their own mortality
You're the prettiest, smartest captain of the team
You're the intelligent and attractive head of the group
I love you more than being seventeen
I love you more than I loved being young
In the evening sun
As the sun sets
Amber evening sun
The sky turns orange as day becomes night
In the evening sun
As night begins
Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Julian Casablancas, Fabrizio Morretti
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind