January 22, 2001

SINGLE OF THE WEEK : The Strokes - The Modern Age

Modern? Well, maybe in 1975 it might have been...

Modern? Well, maybe in 1975 it might have been. Actually, in 1975 they probably would have thought this sensational single sounded just like The Velvet Underground and The Stooges too. It would have been left to future generations to say it sounded quite like Television, and a bit of every New York band of that era as well.

So, 'The Modern Age' by The Strokes not really in any way modern at all, then. But seeing as the hot sound of 2001 is '80s synth ballads, like what Hall & Oates used to bake, that's no unwelcome thing.

New York's Strokes sound like they think 'garage' still refers to where parents keep their cars, a place where gangly teens scrape out edgy proto-punk. You suspect they'd rather eat their own sick than wear loose-fit. But the beauty of it is, The Strokes aren't just a sound perfectly preserved in retro aspic. They're the latest in a thrilling line of American bands reinvigorating rock with taut guitar lines, stunning dynamics and great hair. You know: Queens, ATD-I, Trail Of Dead, LAL. They're a gaggle of sexy miscreants did we mention good trousers? plundering their city's unimpeachable rock heritage for the best parts. But there's an urgency to the music they make a crackle to their pop that says right here, right now.

Kitty Empire

Rate this track

Average rating

NEW! For the latest music videos and backstage interviews, check out our brand new sister site, NME Video.