The Strokes Release EP ‘Future Present Past’, Leave Us Missing The Good Ol’ Days
Julian Casablanca and Co. are back once again with a brand new EP ‘Future, Present, Past’. The first taste of new music from The Strokes since 2013’s ‘Comedown Machine’, ‘Future, Present, Past’ provides fan with a quirky and experimental, psych-rock like side to The Strokes.
Opening with Oblivious, a catchy, guitar-driven and oriented track, Julian Casablanca’s vocals are almost inaudible throughout the verse (if you can understand what he’s saying please let us know!). However, the song opens up into an electronic and indie-rock fusion in the chorus, creating a pleasingly odd dynamic of intriguing vocals over the top of high pitched power chords that is stadium-esque. Oblivious takes a somewhat predictable turn after the second chorus, heading down the guitar solo route. A squealing, bends-galore solo does however give the song an energetic rise that it had not done in the build up.
Next cab off the rank is Drag Queen. A slower, electronic anthem-like tune that contains yet another inaudible Julian Casablanca vocal performance…however, the last minute of the song provides a synthesiser-driven, evocative conclusion that’s a highlight in an otherwise dull tune.
Threat of Joy is the pick of the bunch. A throwback to The Strokes’ prime, the indie-rock jam is easy going with a grooving vocal melody that brings energy and sweet relief to the EP. Casablanca is back to his best, enchanting us with a soothing vocal performance that we can actually understand (sweet mother of mercy, finally!). Here’s hoping this is the sound The Strokes stick with!
Overall, ’Future, Present, Past’ has left us feeling a bit…’ehh’. Whilst it has its moments, namely the guitar solo in Obvlious and the entirety of Threat Of Joy, the rest of the EP is really nothing that special. It lacks the depth and punch of heavy hitting tunes such as Reptilia and Last Nite and doesn’t leave us feeling a sense of awe or amazement. It feels like the EP has simply been formulated, resulting in a clinical vibe to it that lacks emotion.
