The Strokes' upcoming album, 'Reality Awaits', has been delayed, and guitarist Nick Valensi is taking a break from the band's tour. Julian Casablancas, the band's frontman, has assured fans that Valensi will return soon, but the reason for his absence remains unclear. The delay has sparked speculation among fans, with some questioning the band's dynamics and Valensi's future with the group. Casablancas' response to a fan's claim that the band had 'broke up' with Valensi has divided opinions, with some fans finding reassurance in his comment, while others remain skeptical. The band's tour, which includes a New York show with Beach House, TV On The Radio, and Fcukers, is set to take them across the UK, North America, Europe, and Japan. The album's delay was initially attributed to a vinyl release, but the band's guitarist, Albert Hammond Jr., later praised 'Reality Awaits' as his favorite album. The album's two singles, 'Going Shopping' and 'Falling Out Of Love', have received mixed reviews, with NME describing the former as lacking boldness but avoiding safe choices. The band's recent music video for 'Going Shopping' featured actor Walton Goggins, and Casablancas hinted that Valensi would return for the next video. Despite the delay and Valensi's absence, The Strokes' tour and album release continue to generate excitement among fans, who eagerly await the band's return to the stage and the release of 'Reality Awaits'.
