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).
Mercy Mercy Me
The Strokes Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Oh, mercy, mercy me
Oh, things ain't what they used to be
Oh no, where did all the blue skies go
Poison is the wind that blows
From the north and south and east
Whoa
Oh, things ain't what they used to be
Oh no, oil wasted on the ocean and upon our sea
Fish full of mercury, whoa
Oh, mercy, mercy me
Oh, things ain't what they used to be
No, no, radiation underground and in the sky
Animals and birds who live nearby are dying
Whoa, mercy, mercy me
Oh, things ain't what they used to be
What about this overcrowded land
How much more abuse from man can you stand?
The Strokes's song "Mercy Mercy Me" is a cover of Marvin Gaye's 1971 track about environmental concerns. The lyrics are a commentary on the destruction and degradation humans have caused to the planet. The opening line "Woo ah mercy, mercy me" is a plea for compassion and understanding from the listener. The following line "Ah, things ain't what they used to be" implies that the world has changed and not for the better. The line "Where did all the blue skies go" emphasizes the loss of natural beauty and clean air.
The second verse highlights environmental disasters such as oil spills and the pollution of the oceans leading to the presence of mercury in fish. The line "What about this over crowded land" draws attention to the issue of population growth and the unsustainable use of resources. The song emphasizes the fact that the Earth cannot sustain continued human abuse, and the line "How much more abuse from man can she stand?" is a call to action for individuals to take responsibility and make changes in their own lives.
Overall, the lyrics of "Mercy Mercy Me" are a powerful critique of humanity's impact on the planet, and convey a sense of urgency for change before it's too late.
Line by Line Meaning
Woo ah mercy, mercy me
Expressing deep concern and distress over the current state of society and environment.
Ah, things ain't what they used to be.
Noting the significant degradation and decline of the world compared to the past.
No, no, where did all the blue skies go,
Questioning the disappearance of the clear blue hue in the sky due to pollution and depletion of the ozone layer.
Poison is the wind that blows
The wind's severity is now polluted and toxic, resulting in health risks and danger.
From the north and south and east
Regardless of where it blows from, the pollution is widespread and affecting every direction.
Ah things ain't what they used to be, no, no
Reiterating the fact that the world is no longer as healthy or well-kept as before.
Oil wasted on the ocean and upon
The intentional dumping of oil in the ocean and causing severe damage to marine life and ecosystem.
Our seas fish full of mercury, ah. oh
Marine life like fish have been contaminated with harmful chemicals, particularly mercury, due to human activities and pollution.
What about this over crowded land
The overpopulation of urban areas and overcrowding of land leads to degradation in living standards and quality of life for those living there.
How much more abuse from man can she stand?
Questioning the extent of damage and abuse the planet can handle, indicating the urgent need for environmental responsibility and action.
Oh mercy, mercy me.
The expression of deep sorrow and regret at the state of society and environment.
No, no, no, radiation underground and in the sky;
Noting the damage done by radiation in many ways, including underground and atmospheric.
Animals and birds who live near by are dying oh,
The impact of radiation endangers wildlife in the vicinity and ultimately results in death and destruction of the natural habitat.
Animals and land how much more abuse from man can she stand?
Questioning the extent of damage and abuse the planet can handle, indicating the urgent need for environmental responsibility and action with regards to wildlife and land on Earth.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Marvin Gaye
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind