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).
Life's A Gas
The Strokes Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Life's a gas, Life's a gas, Life's a gas, a gas, oh yeah
So don't be sad cause I'll be there
Don't be sad at all
Life's a gas, Life's a gas, Life's a gas, a gas, a gas, oh yeah
Life's a gas, Life's a gas, Life's a gas, a gas, a gas, oh yeah
So don't be sad cause I'll be there
Don't be sad at all
Life's a gas, Life's a gas, Life's a gas, a gas, oh yeah
Life's a gas, Life's a gas, Life's a gas, a gas, oh yeah
So don't be sad cause I'll be there
Don't be sad at all
The Strokes's song Life's A Gas is a simple yet profound song about the inevitability of life, and the assurance that the singer will always be there for his loved ones. The repetition of the phrase "Life's a gas" highlights the idea that life is unpredictable and full of unexpected twists and turns. The fact that life is a gas means it is fleeting, transitory and we should enjoy it while it lasts. However, despite the trials and tribulations that come along with life, the singer reassures his loved ones that they should not be sad because he will always be there for them. This message can be interpreted in many ways, but it is overall a message of hope and support, and a reminder of the importance of being there for those who matter to us most.
The lyrics are simple, yet the message is powerful in its simplicity. It reminds us of the beauty of life and the importance of cherishing every moment we have. It also reminds us of the importance of being there for each other, even in the darkest of times. Overall, the song is a beautiful tribute to life, love, and the enduring bond of family and friends.
Line by Line Meaning
Life's a gas, Life's a gas, Life's a gas, a gas, oh yeah
Life is full of fun and excitement, and it's all love and happiness.
Life's a gas, Life's a gas, Life's a gas, a gas, oh yeah
Life is full of fun and excitement, and it's all love and happiness.
So don't be sad cause I'll be there
Don't be saddened because I'll always be around to comfort and support you.
Don't be sad at all
Don't feel any sadness or despair, everything will work out fine.
Life's a gas, Life's a gas, Life's a gas, a gas, a gas, oh yeah
Life is a constant journey of joy and excitement, and it's all love and happiness.
Life's a gas, Life's a gas, Life's a gas, a gas, a gas, oh yeah
Life is a constant journey of joy and excitement, and it's all love and happiness.
So don't be sad cause I'll be there
Don't be saddened because I'll always be around to comfort and support you.
Don't be sad at all
Don't feel any sadness or despair, everything will work out fine.
Life's a gas, Life's a gas, Life's a gas, a gas, oh yeah
Life is full of wonder and excitement, and it's all love and happiness.
Life's a gas, Life's a gas, Life's a gas, a gas, oh yeah
Life is full of wonder and excitement, and it's all love and happiness.
So don't be sad cause I'll be there
Don't be saddened because I'll always be around to comfort and support you.
Don't be sad at all
Don't feel any sadness or despair, everything will work out fine.
Contributed by Kaitlyn W. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Alexandre
Os Strokes poderiam gravar um album inteiro só com cover dos Ramones, seria uma jóia perfeita!
Long Shanks
2 de mis bandas favoritas juntas, que buen cover. Que vivan por siempre Ramones y The Strokes (:
Sherlock H.
Si se acaba el mundo por el covid o la pobreza espero que si vuelvo a existir en otra vida ...! Vuelvan a existir mis the strokes
PC Disciple
Julian's voice and style are perfect for this song
Mapuan Indigenous
@Marxer eat shit
paburo-san666
Marxer Answer me Plz
Marxer
Otaku Punk this discussion is just lame and pointless that's why i didnt and i wont answer anymore, you're only contradicting urself in every sentence so bye
paburo-san666
Marxer Did you see? You cannot answer my question because you seem that you think you're smarter because you don't listen punk rock or another kind of hard rock. If you could appear more kindness :/
And the previous statement was an other opinion, some unplesant, but in a previous commentary I present that more clearly, but in Spanish (my mother language).
Marxer
Otaku Punk please get out you're just pathetic smh
Lokillo
RAMONES eran los mejores, no habrá otra música como esa más nunca en la historia...