The Strokes lose themselves in a sea of auto-tune on 'Reality Awaits'

The seventh studio album from The Strokes, Reality Awaits, presents a difficult listening experience for those hoping to hear the raw, guitar-driven sound that defined the band in the early 2000s. Released this week, the record moves away from the band’s signature style, opting instead for heavy synthetic production and layered effects that obscure the vocal performances of Julian Casablancas.

While the band gained fame for reviving guitar-based rock with their debut album, Is This It, their current output feels disconnected from that legacy. Critics note that while many contemporary artists, including Charli XCX and bands like Geese, are successfully incorporating rock elements into their modern work, The Strokes have retreated into digital processing.

The release includes two singles that highlight the inconsistency of the project. Going Shopping offers a glimpse of the band's potential, yet Falling Out of Love illustrates the problematic reliance on studio-applied filters. For a group that once led a wave of stadium-filling rock acts, this shift toward synthetic soundscapes leaves long-term listeners wondering about the future direction of the band.

Ultimately, Reality Awaits serves as a reminder that capturing past energy is a difficult task. Twenty-five years after their debut, the band struggles to balance their history with the current musical climate. The result is an album that leaves much to be desired for fans who remember the band for its stripped-back approach and sharp electric riffs.