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).
Slow Animals
The Strokes Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Everyone can hear you in this whole damn crowd
You don't have to try so hard
I think they got the message, you were out of your mind
It's not so good to see you this upset
But the next generation will forget
They're always scared of where their daughter's been
They never wanna see or hear or think about again
Is it gone?
I hope that nothing's wrong
Is it gone?
I hope that nothing's wrong
Oh, please don't try to lick my face
Everyone can see that you're a psycho in this place
The next generation will forget
Where their daughters' been
Or who knows, they could be alone with men
They're never gonna let you understand
Or show you what is to be a man
You don't wanna sit down and think or hear
You don't think anyone is in your ear
I never wanna see your face
Accuse, it's no one's fault
Is it gone?
I hope that nothing's wrong
Is it gone?
I hope that nothing's wrong
Is it gone?
I hope that nothing's wrong
Is it gone?
I hope that nothing's wrong
They're always scared of where their daughter's been
'Cause who knows? She could be alone with men
They never wanna see or hear or think about again
Is it gone?
I hope that nothing's wrong
Is it gone?
I hope that nothing's wrong
The Strokes’s “Slow Animals” is a song featuring a melancholic tempo with dark and intricate lyrics. The opening stanza suggests that the song is about someone who is dealing with personal issues and projecting a negative image of themselves. They don’t have to be “so down,” and everyone can hear them, suggesting that they are not hiding their struggles well. However, it seems that they have reached rock bottom, and nobody can help much. The next generation, the people they count on for support, will forget about their troubles, and hence they are alone in their struggle. The following stanza extends this loner image further, alluding to the risk that many young people face when alone with men. The parents of the next generation, represented here, are always scared of who their daughters could be alone around.
The tone of “Slow Animals” is one of bitterness, frustration, and helplessness. The singer of the song does not want to talk or hear, nor does he think anyone is there to listen. The sadness of the song runs deeper in such a way that the person at the center of its lyrics can’t find anyone or anything to salvage them. They are lost, and their plight is made worse by the indifference of those around them. The final line “Is it gone? I hope that, that, that it's wrong,” suggests that there is a possibility of respite or salvation for the subject of the song, but their environment is so unfeeling that they can’t see a way out.
Line by Line Meaning
You don't have to be so down
You don't need to feel sad
Everyone can hear you in this whole damn crowd
Your emotions are visible and audible to all those around you
You don't have to try so hard
You don't need to exert so much effort
I think they got the message, you were out of your mind
It seems like people already know that you were not in your right state of mind
It's not so good to see you this upset
It's not desirable to see you so saddened
But the next generation will forget
Future generations will not remember this situation
They're always scared of where their daughter's been
Parents are always anxious about their daughter's whereabouts
'Cause who knows, she could be alone with men
They fear that she may be in a compromising situation with men
They never wanna see or hear or think about again
They want to forget this situation and not talk about it ever again
Is it gone?
Is the issue resolved?
I hope that, that, that it's wrong
I wish that it's not true
Oh, please don't tell it to my face
Please don't say it directly to me
Everyone can see that you were circling his space
Everyone noticed that you were trying to get close to him
They're never gonna let you understand
They won't allow you to comprehend the situation
Or show you what is to be a man
They won't explain to you what being a man entails
You don't wanna sit down and think or hear
You don't want to take the time to ponder or listen
You don't think anyone is in your ear
You believe no one is advising you
I never wanna see your face
I don't want to see you
Accuse, it's no ones fault
It's not appropriate to blame anyone
Now, they're scared of where their daughter's been
Presently, parents are worried about their daughter's location
'Cause who knows, she could be alone with men
Their concern stems from the possibility of their daughter being in a precarious situation with men
Is it gone?
Has the issue been resolved?
I hope that, that, that it's wrong
I wish that it's not true
Is it gone?
Has the issue disappeared?
I hope that, that, that it's wrong
I hope that it's not true
Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Fabrizio Moretti, Julian Casablancas, Nick Valensi, Nikolai Fraiture, Albert Jr. Hammond
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind