The Strokes’ New Album: A Return to Form or a Missed Opportunity?

The Strokes have long been regarded as one of the defining bands of the early 2000s indie rock scene. With their raw energy, catchy hooks, and Julian Casablancas’ distinctive vocals, they carved out a sound that felt both timeless and distinctly of their moment. After a six-year hiatus following their 2016 album Future Present Past, fans have been eagerly awaiting their next move. Their ninth studio album, The New Abnormal, released in April 2020, was met with critical acclaim and a Grammy Award for Best Rock Album. Now, with their tenth album, Subculturist, released in March 2025, the band has once again stepped into the spotlight.

From the opening notes of Subculturist‘s lead single, Alone Together, it’s clear that The Strokes are still very much in command of their signature sound. The track blends driving guitars with Casablancas’ snarling delivery, a formula that has served them well for decades. But does the album live up to the hype, or does it feel like a rehash of past glories? Let’s break it down.

The Album’s Sound: Familiar Yet Fresh

The Strokes have never been a band to radically reinvent themselves with each album. Instead, they refine their formula, polishing the edges while retaining the core elements that make their music instantly recognizable. Subculturist is no exception. The album leans heavily into the garage rock and post-punk revival sounds that defined their earlier work, particularly their 2001 breakthrough Is This It and 2003’s Room on Fire.

Tracks like Paper Trail and Losing My Edge showcase the band’s knack for crafting infectious, anthemic choruses. The guitars are crisp and punchy, the basslines are tight, and Fabrizio Moretti’s drumming remains a driving force. However, some critics have noted that the album occasionally feels too safe, relying on familiar tropes rather than taking bold risks. The production, handled by Rick Rubin, is polished to a shine, which some argue strips away the raw edge that made The Strokes’ early work so compelling.

Yet, there are moments where the band experiments. Ghost Town, for example, incorporates a synth line that feels out of place in their usual sonic palette. It’s a subtle shift, but one that adds a layer of intrigue to the album. Whether this experimentation is a step forward or a misstep is up for debate, but it at least shows that The Strokes are willing to push boundaries—even if they do so cautiously.

Lyrics and Themes: Nostalgia and Existential Dread

Julian Casablancas’ lyrics have always been a focal point of The Strokes’ music. His words are often cryptic, blending street-level observations with philosophical musings. On Subculturist, he continues this tradition, though the themes feel more introspective and less concerned with the hedonistic lifestyle that defined their early work.

Albums like Is This It and First Impressions of Earth were filled with references to New York City nightlife, drugs, and fleeting relationships. Subculturist, on the other hand, feels more subdued. Songs like Midnight in the City and Subculturist (the title track) explore themes of alienation, time passing, and the search for meaning. It’s a shift that aligns with the band’s own aging—frontman Casablancas is now in his late 40s—and the broader cultural moment, where existential questions feel more pressing than ever.

Some listeners may find the lyrics on Subculturist less immediately engaging than those on earlier albums. Casablancas’ delivery is more subdued, and the themes feel more abstract. However, the album rewards repeated listens, revealing layers of meaning that aren’t immediately apparent. It’s a record that feels very much of its time, capturing the mood of a generation grappling with uncertainty and disillusionment.

Reception and Comparisons: How Does Subculturist Stack Up?

Upon its release, Subculturist received generally positive reviews from critics. Many praised the album’s cohesion and the band’s ability to still deliver the goods after so many years. The Guardian called it “a triumphant return to form,” while Rolling Stone described it as “a reminder of why The Strokes mattered in the first place.” However, not all reviews were glowing. Some critics argued that the album lacks the raw energy of their earlier work, and that it feels more like a greatest-hits compilation than a bold new statement.

Comparisons to their earlier albums are inevitable. Is This It and Room on Fire remain touchstones for indie rock, and any new album is going to be measured against them. Subculturist doesn’t quite reach those heights, but it’s a solid entry in their discography. It’s the sound of a band that knows exactly who they are and what they do best—and for the most part, they execute it flawlessly.

For fans of the band, Subculturist is a welcome addition to their catalog. For casual listeners, it might feel like a missed opportunity to push boundaries. Either way, it’s clear that The Strokes are still a force to be reckoned with, even if they’re no longer the young upstarts who took the world by surprise.

What’s Next for The Strokes?

With Subculturist out in the world, the question on everyone’s mind is: what’s next for The Strokes? The band has never been one to rush new material, and given their history of long gaps between albums, it’s unlikely we’ll see another release anytime soon. However, the band has hinted that they’re already thinking about the future. In a recent interview, Casablancas mentioned that he’s been writing new material, though he’s in no rush to release it.

For now, fans will have to content themselves with revisiting Subculturist and exploring the band’s back catalog. Whether this album marks a new chapter for The Strokes or simply a coda to their existing legacy remains to be seen. One thing is certain: the band’s influence on indie rock is undeniable, and their music continues to inspire new generations of musicians.

For those looking to dive deeper into The Strokes’ discography or explore similar bands, check out our Music category for more articles and recommendations.

Key Tracks to Check Out

• Alone Together – The lead single that sets the tone for the album.
• Paper Trail – A standout track with a catchy chorus and driving rhythm.
• Ghost Town – A rare moment of experimentation with synth elements.
• Subculturist – The title track, which offers a glimpse into the album’s themes.
• Midnight in the City – A moody, introspective track that showcases Casablancas’ lyrical depth.

Final Thoughts

Subculturist may not be The Strokes’ most groundbreaking album, but it’s a solid addition to their discography. It’s the sound of a band that knows exactly what they do best—and they do it well. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual listener, there’s plenty to enjoy on this record. The Strokes may no longer be the young rebels they once were, but they’re still making music that resonates.

For more analysis on the evolution of indie rock and where The Strokes fit into the broader musical landscape, explore our Culture section. There, you’ll find articles that delve into the history of the genre, its key players, and its lasting impact on music today.