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).
Heart In A Cage
The Strokes Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
And I don't write better when I'm stuck in the ground
So don't teach me a lesson 'cause I've already learned
Yeah, the sun will be shinin' and my children will burn
Oh, the heart beats in its cage
I don't want what you want, I don't feel what you feel
Yeah, we got left, left, left, left, left, left, left
Now it's three in the morning and you're eating alone
Oh, the heart beats in its cage
All our friends, they're laughing at us
All of those you loved, you mistrust
Help me, I'm just not quite myself
Look around, there's no one else there
I went to the concert and I fought through the crowd
Guess I got too excited when I thought you were around
Oh, he gets left, left, left, left, left, left, left
And I'm sorry you were thinking I would steal your fire
Oh, the heart beats in its cage
Yes, the heart beats in its cage, alright
Oh, the heart beats in its cage
The Strokes’ song “Heart in a Cage” captures the feelings of frustration and isolation that many people experience living in a big city. The lyrics seem to express discontentment with modern living, with lines like “I’m stuck in a city but I belong in a field”. The singer is struggling to find their place in the world and feels out of step with those around them. They’re also grappling with creative blocks, as evidenced by the line “I don’t write better when I’m stuck in the ground”.
The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “Oh, the heart beats in its cage,” seems to represent the singer’s feeling of being trapped – both physically and emotionally. The image of the heart as a caged animal is a powerful one, suggesting a longing to be free and unrestrained. The song touches on themes of disillusionment and desperation but ultimately offers a glimmer of hope – the acknowledgement that even when we feel trapped and alone, our hearts still continue to beat.
Line by Line Meaning
Well, I don't feel better when I'm fucking around
Engaging in meaningless activities doesn't bring me happiness or fulfillment.
And I don't write better when I'm stuck in the ground
Being in a stagnant state of mind doesn't lead to creative inspiration.
So don't teach me a lesson 'cause I've already learned
I don't need someone to tell me what to do or how to live because I've gained knowledge through my own experiences.
Yeah, the sun will be shining and my children will burn
The future may seem bright but it holds dark consequences.
Oh, the heart beats in its cage
The emotional and creative aspect of a person is trapped and restrained.
I don't want what you want, I don't feel what you feel
I have my own desires and emotions that are separate from yours.
See, I'm stuck in a city but I belong in a field
I feel out of place and restricted in my current surroundings.
Yeah, we got left, left, left, left, left, left, left
We've been abandoned and left behind.
Now it's three in the morning and you're eating alone
You're alone in your struggles and no one is there to comfort or help you.
All our friends, they're laughing at us
Others are judging us and finding our failures amusing.
All of those you loved, you mistrust
You're unable to trust those who were once close to you.
Help me, I'm just not quite myself
I'm lost and struggling with my identity.
Look around, there's no one else left
Everyone has left or abandoned me.
I went to the concert and I fought through the crowd
I made an effort to attend an event despite the obstacles.
Guess I got too excited when I thought you were around
I became overly optimistic when I thought I had the support of someone I cared about.
Oh, he gets left, left, left, left, left, left, left
He gets abandoned and left behind.
And I'm sorry you were thinking I would steal your fire
I apologize for giving you the impression that I would take away your dreams or accomplishments.
And the heart beats in its cage
Despite everything, the emotional and creative aspect of a person continues to be trapped and restrained.
Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Julian Casablancas
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@isac937
Lyrics:
Heart in a CageThe Strokes
Well, I don't feel better when I'm f*cking around
And I don't write better when I'm stuck in the ground
So don't teach me a lesson 'cause I've already learned
Yeah, the sun will be shining and my children will burn
Oh, the heart beats in its cage
I don't want what you want, I don't feel what you feel
See, I'm stuck in a city but I belong in a field
Yeah, we got left, left, left, left, left, left, left
Now it's three in the morning and you're eating alone
Oh, the heart beats in its cage
All our friends, they're laughing at us
All of those you loved, you mistrust
Help me, I'm just not quite myself
Look around, there's no one else left
I went to the concert and I fought through the crowd
Guess I got too excited when I thought you were around
Oh, he gets left, left, left, left, left, left, left
And I'm sorry you were thinking I would steal your fire
Oh, the heart beats in its cage
Yes, the heart beats in its cage
And the heart beats in its cage
@nurhamizahjamil4966
Well, I don't feel better when I'm fucking around
And I don't write better when I'm stuck in the ground
So don't teach me a lesson 'cause I've already learned
Yeah, the sun will be shining and my children will burn
Oh, the heart beats in its cage
I don't want what you want, I don't feel what you feel
See, I'm stuck in a city but I belong in a field
Yeah, we got left, left, left, left, left, left, left
Now it's three in the morning and you're eating alone
Oh, the heart beats in its cage
All our friends, they're laughing at us
All of those you loved, you mistrust
Help me, I'm just not quite myself
Look around, there's no one else left
I went to the concert and I fought through the crowd
Guess I got too excited when I thought you were around
Oh, he gets left, left, left, left, left, left, left
And I'm sorry you were thinking I would steal your fire
Oh, the heart beats in its cage
Yes, the heart beats in its cage
And the heart beats in its cage
@juliemcclendon
Lyrics
Well, I don't feel better when I'm fucking around
And I don't write better when I'm stuck in the ground
So don't teach me a lesson 'cause I've already learned
Yeah, the sun will be shining and my children will burn
Oh, the heart beats in its cage
I don't want what you want, I don't feel what you feel
See, I'm stuck in a city but I belong in a field
Yeah, we got left, left, left, left, left, left, left
Now it's three in the morning and you're eating alone
Oh, the heart beats in its cage
All our friends, they're laughing at us
All of those you loved, you mistrust
Help me, I'm just not quite myself
Look around, there's no one else left
I went to the concert and I fought through the crowd
Guess I got too excited when I thought you were around
Oh, he gets left, left, left, left, left, left, left
And I'm sorry you were thinking I would steal your fire
Oh, the heart beats in its cage
Yes, the heart beats in its cage
And the heart beats in its cage
@jblanchard5387
The chemistry between him and the sidewalk is amazing
@carternebben9151
I actually laughed out loud at this thank you
@Atomic_Johnny
Haha! Awesome.
@felipefxD
That's awesome haha
@Heroinviolet
Lol I wouldn't mind being put in place of that sidewalk
@rubygardner3110
I’m legally changing my name to the
Sidewalk
@Amber_xo_133
In an interview with Rolling Stone, Albert Hammond, Jr. stated he almost died on the set of the shooting of the video when 40 mph winds almost blew him off the top of the building. Hammond commented that "It's not like it's the first time I've almost died on a shooting for a music video."
@vaultman2971
Wait, he actually WAS in the top of that building?! I thought it was green screen or something idk.
@Amber_xo_133
@@vaultman2971 yes
@zackzallie8735
What about Julian? I hope he didn't contract with germs from the sidewalk.