The New Abnormal
The Strokes · 2020
45 min · 9 tracks · indie rock
Melodic and introspective, blending garage rock energy with reflective lyrics that capture contemporary disillusionment.
Top tracks — play these first
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The Adults Are Talking Start here — Opening the album with a sharp critique of authority, this track sets a tone of discontent while merging catchy melodies with incisive lyrics.
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Bad Decisions — This song features infectious hooks and a danceable beat, cleverly juxtaposing upbeat instrumentation with themes of regret and nostalgia.
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Ode to the Mets — Closing out the album, this track reflects on personal and collective nostalgia, encapsulating a sense of longing for lost moments combined with an anthem-like chorus.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends reflective lyrics with varied tempos, creating an engaging yet cohesive listening experience.
What we noticed
- The first track features a slow build with layered instrumentation that gradually introduces the vocals, setting a reflective tone.
- The album closes with 'Ode to the Mets', which features an extended instrumental outro that allows for a gradual emotional release.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady pacing with gradual climax
- reflective moments for personal introspection
- nostalgic vibes for late afternoons
- vibrant energy for casual gatherings
Maybe skip if you
- seekers of instant gratification
- prefer standalone singles over albums
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Late Career Highlight — Revitalized the band's presence and received critical acclaim after a long hiatus.
- Moods
- Nostalgic· Introspective
- Career context
- Released on April 10, 2020, The New Abnormal marked The Strokes' sixth studio album and their first in seven years since Comedown Machine. This album came during a period of renewed interest in the band, following a lineup change and evolving musical landscape, which they navigated while staying true to their signature sound.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Arctic Monkeys· The Libertines· Franz Ferdinand
Tracklist
- 1 The Adults Are Talking Start here 5:09
- 2 Selfless 3:42
- 3 Brooklyn Bridge to Chorus 3:55
- 4 Bad Decisions 4:53
- 5 Eternal Summer 6:16
- 6 At the Door 5:10
- 7 Why Are Sundays So Depressing 4:35
- 8 Not the Same Anymore 5:37
- 9 Ode to the Mets 5:51
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Currents
Tame Impala
Shares a melodic introspection with synth-infused soundscapes and themes of disillusionment.
Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino
Arctic Monkeys
Combines reflective lyrics and a laid-back vibe, echoing contemporary existential themes.
Little Dark Age
MGMT
Merges garage rock energy with introspective lyrics, capturing a sense of modern malaise.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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