The New York rock band is awaiting the release of their fifth album “Comedown Machine” on Mar. 26. In the meantime, Pitchfork has provided a stream of the 11 song LP, and after one listen, it’s hard to believe this album is from the Strokes. I was reminded of less-rock, more-pop bands like Phoenix or Julian Casablancas’ solo project.

The songs use way more synths and effects than the original garage-rock sound. I was looking forward to the band making a comeback and proving that rock ‘n’ roll is indeed still alive. However, that is not what’s happening.

That aside, this album is great! The Strokes are a new band and brought some funky, catchy tunes to their fans and will surely be gaining some new attention. The album is full of 80’s dance jams like “Welcome to Japan” as well as some classic Strokes tracks like “50/50” and “All the Time”. “Comedown Machine” is overall a refreshing work of art that today’s music culture definitely needed.

To form your own opinion on The Strokes’ “Comedown Machine”, click here.