The Strokes - Reality Awaits

The Strokes - Reality Awaits

Words: Corey Grange

The Strokes are one of the most discussed bands on everyone's lips right now. In 2026. What's with the autotune? Why are people leaving the band? Their Dublin gig is my most anticipated of the year so, obviously, this album was a must-listen for me. What an odd experience this one is. 'Psycho Shit' is right. Arpeggiated chords and an ebow start the album, then Julian's controversial autotune begins.

The lyricism is poetic as ever ('we learn to die to learn to live' is stunning). Let's say this: Julian sounds tremendous, but some tunes could do without the autotune, namely 'Psycho Shit' and the single 'Falling Out of Love'. However, it doesn't really ruin the experience. 'Dine N'Dash' is like the evil twin brother of 'The Adults Are Talking'. It may be Julian's standout vocal on this album too. 'Going to Babble On' is prime Strokes, with some Jamiroquai buzz going on too. 'Liar's Remorse' is Julian going to the side of Sting or (weird pull) Gotyé.

The album is full of odd accents and effects, showing that The Strokes are not afraid of going against the grain and creating an odd album, 25 years after their iconic debut and 6 years after their last album. 'The Fruits of Conquest' is their weirdest track ever, with a Zappa/Beatles-like ending. The influences are endless, the tunes are good and the shows have been top drawer. What more could you ask for? They're enjoying themselves. Enjoy listening to them enjoying themselves. It's rare these days.

https://open.spotify.com/album/6x0nmCMjHeuN3rYBmI5Bor?si=mtBiOqpMTX2xFQ3fpd59bQ