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The Strokes have finally returned. After six years away, the New York rock band released their new album, Reality Awaits, on July 24, 2026. It is their first full length project since 2020’s The New Abnormal, and fans have been waiting a long time to hear it.
The wait is over, and the album is already making waves among longtime fans and rock critics alike.
When Was Reality Awaits Released?
Reality Awaits dropped on July 24, 2026, through Cult Records and RCA Records. It is the Strokes’ seventh studio album overall.
The band announced the project back in April 2026 with a short, mysterious video featuring a vintage sports car and the tagline “In the flesh, it’s even sexier.” At the time, no other details were shared, which only made fans more curious.
Recorded in Costa Rica with Rick Rubin
The album was recorded with producer Rick Rubin, who also worked with the band on The New Abnormal. Sessions began in Costa Rica, and the band and Rubin later reconvened in different locations around the world to finish the record.
While recording, the Strokes invited director Johann Rashid into the studio to film the sessions. The result is a short film called In Transit: Part II, a follow up to the band’s 2004 documentary In Transit.
Reality Awaits Tracklist
The album features nine new songs and runs just over 41 minutes.
- Psycho Shit
- Dine N’Dash
- Lonely in the Future
- Falling Out of Love
- Going to Babble On
- Going Shopping
- Liar’s Remorse
- The Fruits of Conquest
- Tyrants of the Mellow Moon
Standout Songs on the Album
“Going Shopping”
The album’s first single arrived with a music video that pays tribute to Paul Simon’s classic “You Can Call Me Al” video, with actor Walton Goggins stepping into the role made famous by Chevy Chase.
“Falling Out of Love”
The second single released ahead of the album, this track has quickly become a fan favorite for its melodic hooks and classic Strokes energy.
Read Also: The Strokes Biography: Biggest Songs, Real Name, Net Worth, Family, Career, Songs, Albums, Awards & Latest News-From Is This It to Reality Awaits
Why Are Fans So Excited About Reality Awaits?
There are a few big reasons this release has fans talking.
- A long wait finally over. Six years is the longest gap between Strokes albums since Comedown Machine in 2013.
- The Rick Rubin reunion. Fans loved the sound Rubin brought to The New Abnormal, so his return as producer has raised expectations.
- A big summer tour. The Strokes are hitting major festivals this summer, including a sold out set at Outside Lands on August 8 and a headlining spot at Just Like Heaven on August 22 alongside LCD Soundsystem.
- Behind the scenes footage. The In Transit: Part II short film gives fans a rare look into how the album came together, adding extra buzz around the release.
Where to Stream Reality Awaits
You can listen to Reality Awaits now on official platforms, including:
- Spotify
- Apple Music
- YouTube Music
- Deezer
- Boomplay
- Audiomack
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Reality Awaits the Strokes’ first album in years?
Yes. It is their first full album since 2020’s The New Abnormal, making it a six year wait for fans.
Who produced the new Strokes album?
Rick Rubin produced Reality Awaits, the same producer behind The New Abnormal.
How many songs are on the album?
The album has nine tracks and runs about 41 minutes.
Where was the album recorded?
Recording sessions began in Costa Rica, with the band and Rick Rubin continuing to work on the album in various locations afterward.
Is there a tour to support the album?
Yes. The Strokes are playing major festival dates this summer, including Outside Lands and Just Like Heaven.
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