The wait is over, sort of – for those who've been counting down the days until 'Reality Awaits' dropped, that is! New York City indie rock legends The Strokes treated their devoted fans to a tantalising glimpse of what's to come during their sold-out shows at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado. And, boy, did they deliver!
The electric atmosphere at the second show on Thursday, 23 July 2026, was palpable as The Strokes tore through their setlist, which boasted a perfect blend of old and new. The opening salvo featuring 'Killing Lies' and 'Hard to Explain' had the crowd in raptures before they unleashed 'Going Shopping', the lead single from the forthcoming album, on an unsuspecting audience.
But the real pièce de résistance was yet to come – the live debut of 'Dine N'Dash'. This atmospheric new track promised much and delivered, its relaxed, laid-back vibe sending shivers down the spines of those fortunate enough to be there. It's a taste of things to come from an album that's already generating huge buzz among critics.
The Red Rocks shows, part of The Strokes' extensive North American tour, also showcased a stellar selection of their back catalogue. Tracks like 'Life Is Simple In The Moonlight', 'Reptilia', and 'Last Nite' sent the crowd into raptures, while support acts Hamilton Leithauser (formerly of The Walkmen) and ÖLÜM (Los Angeles-based Turkish psychedelic rock outfit) warmed up the audience with their own unique sounds.
So, what's next for these rock royalty? Well, if you're in the UK or Europe, be sure to clear your diaries – they'll be bringing their tour to our shores in October 2026, marking a long-awaited return after two decades away. The Strokes' first comprehensive tour on British soil is set to stop off in major cities like London, Newcastle, and Manchester, so get ready for some seriously good times!
And if you're still waiting with bated breath for 'Reality Awaits', fear not – it's already been praised by music critics, who've hailed its experimental sound and lyrical depth as a welcome return to form. The NME awarded the album four stars, describing it as "a weird and wonderful collection" that sees The Strokes pushing their creative boundaries.