The wait is on for The Strokes' die-hard fans as 'Reality Awaits', their long-awaited seventh studio album, has been pushed back by a month. Guitarist Albert Hammond Jr. spilled the beans on X, explaining that the band wants to synchronise the digital drop with its vinyl release, so everyone can enjoy the new music together - win-win! The decision has left fans scratching their heads and speculating about what's behind this strategic move.
But Hammond Jr. wasn't just dishing out details on the delay; he also gave us a tantalising taste of what we can expect from 'Reality Awaits', likening it to music made by some 'weird, young band' - high praise indeed! He's already called it his 'favourite album' The Strokes have ever produced, describing it as 'beautiful' and 'intoxicatingly good'. But not everyone is sold on the new sound yet; some fans have been giving mixed reviews to early singles like 'Going Shopping' and 'Falling Out Of Love', with a few even questioning Julian Casablancas' use of vocoder.
The band's gearing up for an epic global tour, which promises to be one for the books - especially in the UK and Ireland, where The Strokes will be taking over some of the biggest venues in two decades. Thundercat and Cage the Elephant are set to join them on this wild ride, with dates already selling out at breakneck speed. But, a slight bump in the road: guitarist Nick Valensi won't be joining the party for these live shows, as he's taking a temporary break from touring.
Hammond Jr.'s also been busy outside of The Strokes, collaborating with indie rock artist KennyHoopla on a new track called 'NEW AMERICA//'. This stomping dance punk-influenced tune showcases Hammond Jr.'s ongoing musical exploits and hints at what's to come from 'Reality Awaits' - but we'll have to wait till July 24 for the full reveal. Don't worry, though: major streaming platforms will be primed and ready when it drops!
The Strokes' story is one of indie rock legend - formed in New York back in 1998, they exploded onto the scene in the early 2000s with their critically-acclaimed debut 'Is This It', which won over fans globally. Despite their enduring influence and massive following, The Strokes have yet to snag major UK industry accolades like Brit Awards or BAFTAs - but hey, who's counting?