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Strokes' New Album: A Seven-Year Wait, A Sluggish Sound
10 Aug
Summary
- The Strokes' first album in seven years, 'The New Abnormal,' is critically reviewed.
- Album features familiar hooks, heavily referencing 80s hits.
- Band's signature sound is described as background music by producer Rick Rubin.
After a seven-year hiatus, The Strokes have released their sixth studio album, 'The New Abnormal.' The band announced their return at a New Year's Eve show in Brooklyn, signaling an end to their decade-long break. However, the album itself has been described as sluggish and slight, with some tracks heavily borrowing from 1980s hits, requiring additional writing credits.
Working with producer Rick Rubin, the band's signature sound has been reinterpreted as background music. Critics note a lack of the tight, classic songcraft that defined their earlier work. While the album includes expected loungey ballads and experimental tracks, its most successful moments, like 'Ode to the Mets,' feel like a step forward.
Despite criticisms, there are small victories, including Julian Casablancas' improved falsetto, which leads to striking moments in songs like 'Eternal Summer.' The album opener, 'The Adults Are Talking,' is also highlighted as a strong addition to their legacy. Casablancas' vocal performances across the album show renewed effort and range.
