Album: The New Abnormal
The Strokes’ first album since 2013 is maybe a reflection of the band’s sundown years rather than a comeback. Low-key and missing the pumping beats that were once signature, The New Abnormal is more croon than snarl from Julian Casablancas. It’s a messy remedy for fans waiting seven years for new music, but merits praise for a more mature, deliberate sound. Having the album produced by Rick Rubin might be the reason for the toned down sound of the album, and while it’s not going to be a defining album for the Strokes, it’s fresh take on how the intervening years since Comedown Machine has changed their voice.
Rating: 3/5
By Tanzia Haq
