Reality Awaits

The Strokes returned with their seventh studio album, Reality Awaits, on July 24, 2026, through RCA and Cult Records. This collection of 10 tracks, produced once again by Rick Rubin, marks a continuation of the band's sonic exploration following 2020's The New Abnormal. Recording sessions spanned from the lush landscapes of Guanacaste, Costa Rica, to Rick Rubin's own Shangri-La and The Mansion studios in California. The album's sound blends their signature garage rock revivalist energy with more atmospheric textures, exploring themes of disillusionment and the search for authenticity in a rapidly changing world. Lead singles "Going Shopping" and "Falling Out of Love" offered early glimpses into this mature, yet still undeniably Strokes-esque, offering.

Musically, Reality Awaits incorporates elements of art rock, indie rock, new wave, and synth-pop. Julian Casablancas' vocals are a focal point, noted for their extensive use of Auto-Tune as a stylistic device, and he adopts an over-the-top English accent on several songs. The album's lyrical themes frequently touch upon his aging, the complexities of the music industry, and the challenges of modern existence.

Critical reception for the album has been varied, with some reviewers highlighting its experimental and occasionally unconventional nature. While some found it a more challenging listen than its predecessor, featuring fewer immediate hooks but greater lyrical depth and surprising musical shifts, others viewed it as a natural progression, maintaining the band's creative integrity. The album's runtime is 42 minutes and 39 seconds. [edit]