It's tough being an immediate success. The Strokes weren't only an immediate success but a huge hit. Their first album, 'Is this it?' (2001) is at this point, known in the musical landscape as a 'classic'. What makes their new album a success is much different than other bands considering their circumstances.
It can be easy to fall under pressure or perhaps sell out for an easy buck. The Strokes are not in any sense of the word, musical geniuses (as much as it pains me to say) and at this point, understood not to utilize a reoccurring shtick or rehash used concepts, especially with the monumental success of 'Is this it?'. Fame is not an easy thing, especially in the musical world. The Strokes have proved to the world they are not just a one-hit wonder, struggling to maintain the imposed label as the so-called saviors of 'rock n' roll' ever since their freshman album.
'Angles' is an album that needs to be seen through the lens of context. It is probably the most harshly criticized work of the band. The work is a continuing saga of the bands evolution as the so-called saviors of 'rock n' roll'. After a 5 year hiatus working on solo works, of which I may write a few things up on in future posts, The Strokes' 'Angles' is a clear demonstration of the bands musical inspirations, and all things considered, can be understood as a homage to classic rock.
The work is probably the most diverse of The Strokes discography. Whereas a majority of tracks within their other works contain an underlying theme which almost strings every track together, 'Angles' contains, very different styles, while maintaining The Strokes essence.
'Machu Picchu' contains an almost reggae sounding guitar pattern, mixed with a very conservative bass line and Casablancas 80's sounding vocals. The chorus puts the entire track together with a guitar melody, that strings the reggae verses into a crunchy, rock chorus.
'Under Cover of Darkness' is a definite Strokes track, which cannot be described as none other than new Strokes. Old, yet new. Classic and modern. It demonstrates the new chops the band has garnered over the years while still maintaining their old sound.
'Taken for a Fool' has a very obtuse, melodic guitar riff, which sounds that could have possibly came straight out of CBGB's in the late 70's. The pre-chorus slows things, only to come back with a harder chorus. The solo can be understood as a sexy little synopsis of the entire track. The track sounds like New York City, early punk rock.
'Gratisfaction' literally starts off sounding like a throwback to old classic rock. Casablancas' vocals percolate vintage, classic rock. The track doesn't try to come off as anything other than what it is which is a good, fun time.
As I mentioned earlier, anyone who knows The Strokes, knows they are a band that are attempting to evolve. To say their work isn't good enough, or is mediocre needs to understand that rock music has gone many places and that it is limited but The Strokes are bringing it back with a new twist. It's easy for a band to throw what they have away for fame, or money but anyone listening to their stuff knows that their passion for music isn't something to scoff at. Especially in this day in age, which comes to no surprise why The Strokes are still a successful rock and roll group.
No comments:
Post a Comment