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‘Dine N Dash’: the song that proves there’s still life in The Strokes yet
A Far Out Magazine opinion piece argues that The Strokes' new album "Reality Awaits" has divided fans and critics who question whether the New York band, now approaching their 50s and 25 years on from their debut "Is This It?", still have anything vital to offer. The writer contends that the track "Dine N Dash" refutes the doubters, showcasing a band willing to try new sonic and lyrical directions rather than simply coasting on past glories.
The seventh album, released after a six-year gap and produced by Rick Rubin, has drawn criticism for Julian Casablancas' extensive use of auto-tune, and for a lyrical dig at critic Anthony Fantano on the track "Lonely in the Future". By contrast, "Dine N Dash" features a Cure-esque guitar line, Casablancas' untreated vocals, and unusually introspective, politically charged lyrics, which the author cites as evidence the band remain creatively alive even if the wider album divides opinion.
In short
- The Strokes' new album "Reality Awaits" splits fans and critics
- Writer says track "Dine N Dash" shows the band still has vitality
- Album criticised for auto-tune use and a jab at critic Anthony Fantano
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Dine N Dash demonstrates that The Strokes retain the capacity for genuine musical innovation and artistic growth. The track's Cure-influenced sonic palette, unprocessed vocals, and introspective, politically engaged lyrics show a band willing to venture beyond formulaic repetition and continue engaging with meaningful artistic questions rather than merely trading on their legacy. This willingness to evolve and take creative risks is precisely what distinguishes artists who remain vital from those who simply rest on past achievements.
The case against
Whilst Dine N Dash may be accomplished, a single strong track does not necessarily vindicate an album that has drawn mixed reception from both critics and fans. The broader pattern of heavy auto-tune use and a defensive lyrical dig at a critic suggests a band perhaps lacking confidence in their natural instincts, whilst their recruitment of Rick Rubin for production support could indicate creative uncertainty. For artists approaching their 50s after 25 years, remaining artistically relevant is genuinely difficult, and one song, however well-executed, does not constitute definitive proof that this particular band has overcome that fundamental challenge.
Explained simply
The Strokes are a rock band from New York who became widely known with their 2001 debut album, Is This It. The group is led by singer Julian Casablancas, and their later albums have been judged against the sound and influence of their early work.
Reality Awaits is the band’s seventh album, released after a six-year gap and produced by Rick Rubin. Some listeners have criticised Casablancas’ use of auto-tune and a lyric aimed at music critic Anthony Fantano, while opinions on the record as a whole remain divided.
Dine N Dash stands out on the album for its guitar sound, untreated vocals and more introspective, politically charged lyrics. The debate around the track reflects a wider question about how established bands can change while remaining recognisable to longtime listeners.