The Strokes
Welcome to Japan
The fans' response may have been as negative as the critics but had this song been released by a new act, with less baggage, it would surely have been more warmly received. The line "what kind of arsehole drives a Lotus" sees Julian resurrecting the witty but louche lyricist of old.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Sacrilege
With a video featuring supermodel Lily Cole, Yeah Yeah Yeahs (above) make a typically sultry return. Their fourth album, which coincidentally marks a decade since their debut LP, is one of this year's most anticipated releases.
Parquet Courts
Yr No Stoner
The sweet tale of a young girl falling in love after seeing a mysterious tribute to her written in wet cement outside her apartment. Parquet Courts are everything a modern rock'n'roll band should be: smart, cool and incredibly noisy.
Phoenix ft. MKS
Entertainment (Blood Orange Remix)
Featuring the artists formerly known as the Sugababes, this track kicks off with a neo-soul intro before moving into warm ambient pop.
Haim
Falling
The title track from the Californian sisters' forthcoming EP continues their 21st-century adaptation of Journey's classic rock sound. The clipped drums and echo-laden vocals give it a decidedly modern feel.
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