Albert Hammond Jr. clarifies reasons for delay of Strokes album, collaborates with Kennyhoopla on track “NEW AMERICA//”
The Strokes have encountered some bumps in the road during the rollout of their upcoming album, Reality Awaits. Certain fans have expressed dissatisfaction with Julian Casablancas’ use of Auto-Tune on tracks like “Going Shopping” and “Falling Out Of Love,” prompting guitarist Albert Hammond Jr. to clarify that he does not disdain the new material. Co-founding guitarist Nick Valensi has been absent from the band in the midst of the promotional campaign, and his return remains uncertain. Furthermore, the album’s release date was postponed from June 26 to July 24, causing some disruption in the album’s anticipated debut.
In an interaction with a fan on Twitter, Hammond disclosed the reason behind the delay in Reality Awaits’ digital release. According to the guitarist, the band decided to align the digital release with the vinyl release date, likely to boost first-week sales figures. Although the decision seems logical in retrospect, it raises questions as to why this wasn’t the original plan. Hammond also mentioned that the music on the new album evokes the spirit of a “weird, young band,” hinting at a fresh and innovative sound.
Coinciding with the album’s postponed release date, Hammond has unveiled a collaboration with rising artist Kennyhoopla. Kennyhoopla first caught attention for his work with Travis Barker in the realm of scorching pop-punk. Over the past few years, he has explored various styles within indie rock, drawing inspiration from artists like Beach Fossils and even delving into shoegaze influences. The collaboration with Hammond on “NEW AMERICA//” presents an anthemic dance punk track that resonates with contemporary issues.
The release date for “NEW AMERICA//” on Juneteenth holds significant meaning, as the track delves into the enduring cycles and divisions that prevent America from moving forward and evolving. This deliberate choice underscores the song’s message of breaking free from the constraints of the past and embracing progress. The collaboration between Hammond and Kennyhoopla serves as a testament to the power of music in addressing societal issues and sparking conversations about change.
Despite the challenges faced during the rollout of Reality Awaits, The Strokes and their collaborators continue to push boundaries and explore new musical territories. The convergence of different styles and themes in their upcoming album and collaborations highlights their commitment to artistic growth and experimentation. As fans eagerly anticipate the release of Reality Awaits and the accompanying tracks, the band’s resilience and creativity shine through, setting the stage for a captivating musical journey that transcends conventions and expectations.