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).
What Ever Happened
The Strokes Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
And I don't want to be reminded.
You say "please don't make this harder."
No, I won't yet.
I want to be beside her,
She want to be admired.
You say "please don't make this harder."
Oh dear, is it really all true?
Did they offend us and they want it to sound new?
Top ten ideas for countdown shows
Whose culture is this and does anybody know?
I wait and tell myself "life ain't chess,"
But no one comes in and yes, you're alone
You don't miss me, I know.
Oh Tennessee, what did you write?
I come together in the middle of the night.
Oh that's an ending that I can't write, 'cause
I've got you to let me down.
I want to be forgotten,
And I don't want to be reminded.
You say "please don't make this harder."
No, I won't yet.
I want to be beside her,
She want to be admired.
You say "please don't make this harder."
No, I won't yet
The Strokes' song "What Ever Happened?" has a contemplative tone as it deals with themes of rejection and moving on from past relationships. The lyrics convey a sense of detachment and resignation as the singer attempts to distance themselves from their memories and emotions. The opening lines "I want to be forgotten, and I don't want to be reminded" suggest a desire to erase the past and start anew, while the repetition of the phrase "please don't make this harder" indicates a reluctance to confront the pain of separation.
As the song progresses, the singer oscillates between the desire to be with their loved one and a recognition that they are better off alone. The line "Oh dear, is it really all true? Did they offend us and they want it to sound new?" speaks to a sense of betrayal and uncertainty, while the reference to "Top ten ideas for countdown shows" suggests a disdain for the superficiality of popular culture. Ultimately, the singer resigns themselves to their isolation as they acknowledge that "no one comes in and yes, you're alone."
The verses are interspersed with a cryptic reference to Tennessee and an enigmatic line about an ending that the singer "can't write." These elements add to the song's sense of introspection and mystery, leaving the listener to interpret their significance.
Line by Line Meaning
I want to be forgotten,
I wish to disappear from everyone's memories.
And I don't want to be reminded.
I do not want any reminders of my past.
You say "please don't make this harder."
You're pleading with me to make things easier.
No, I won't yet.
I am not ready to comply yet.
I want to be beside her,
I desire to be next to the woman I love.
She want to be admired.
She wishes to be looked up to and respected.
Oh dear, is it really all true?
Is the information they're telling us completely accurate?
Did they offend us and they want it to sound new?
Were they trying to cause harm while appearing original?
Top ten ideas for countdown shows
Popular suggestions for programs that count down various topics.
Whose culture is this and does anybody know?
What is the origin of this culture, and is it widely recognized?
I wait and tell myself "life ain't chess,"
I tell myself that life is not a game of strategy, but...
But no one comes in and yes, you're alone
...even so, I am alone with no one to rely on.
You don't miss me, I know.
I am aware that you do not long for my presence.
Oh Tennessee, what did you write?
Tennessee, what was the message you conveyed?
I come together in the middle of the night.
I come back to myself late at night.
Oh that's an ending that I can't write, 'cause
That is a conclusion that I am incapable of creating because...
I've got you to let me down.
...you are bound to disappoint me.
You say "please don't make this harder."
You plead with me again to ease up.
No, I won't yet.
Again, I am not ready to comply.
Lyrics © Warner/Chappell Music, Inc., BMG RIGHTS MANAGEMENT US, LLC
Written by: JULIAN CASABLANCAS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind