After the 2006 release of their third album, “First Impressions of Earth,”
The Strokes all but disappeared, leaving their fans wondering when, or if, they would hear from them again.
Finally, after five years of rumors of the band splitting up and several delays in the release date of their newest album, The Strokes are gearing up to debut their latest album, “Angles,” on March 22.
The first single to be released from the new album is titled “Under Cover of Darkness,” and was available to download for free on the band’s website on Feb. 9.
I eagerly counted the days and hours until I was able to download and listen to the first song to be released from the new album.
“Under Cover of Darkness” starts strong, devoid of all the extra nonsense that made “First Impressions of Earth” a disappointing album from a band known for their raw, low-fi sound.
Guitarists Nick Valensi and Albert Hammond Jr. open the track with a clear, sharp duel of clashing notes, managing to make it instantly attention-grabbing and undeniably catchy.
Julian Casablancas, lead singer and writer of most of the band’s songs, immediately jumps in with his raspy drawl, which sounds more refined and melodic than in previous albums.
It’s the “Is This It” era Julian only better.
The foundation of “Under Cover Darkness” is built on a strong, punchy beat driven by drummer Fabrizio Moretti and bassist Nikolai Fraiture.
The collaborative effort of each member’s unique talents makes for a song that’s nearly impossible not to dance to, or at the least, tap your foot to.
The single also features the addition of backing vocals to the chorus, something not commonly found in The Strokes’ discography.
The backing vocals are subtle, but apparent enough to lend an even richer, deeper background to Casablancas’ famous croon.
The most intriguing part of “Under Cover of Darkness” is the lyric; “Everyone’s been singing the same song for 10 years.” For a band with particularly cryptic songs, the message behind this single lyric is clear to fans of The Strokes.
Casablancas is making a sly reference to the band’s first and most popular album, “Is This It,” which was released in 2001.
If the new song is any indication, The Strokes are back and better than ever.
With the perfect blend of The Strokes circa “Is This It” and a few subtle changes to make it sound new, I am anticipating the release of “Angles” now more than ever.