"Angles" is the fourth studio album by American rock band, The Strokes. It was released on March 18, 2011, marking the band's first album after a five-year hiatus following the release of "First Impressions of Earth" in 2006. The production process for "Angles" was notably contentious, with reports of creative disagreements amongst the band members.
Album development began in 2009, with the band's members having different ideas and visions for the album's musical direction. Throughout the record's production, The Strokes were also working on individual side projects, which some critics argue influenced the diverse sound of "Angles".
The album is characterized by its variety of styles, reflecting the input of all band members, which shows up in the form of layered, complex melodies that still manage to echo the distinct sound of The Strokes. The process was democratic, with all members contributing to the song-writing process.
Upon its release, the album received positive to mixed reviews from music critics, who pointed out the album's variety in sound, considering it either a positive attribute or a sign of disorganization. Lead single "Under Cover of Darkness" was lauded by many. Commercially, "Angles" performed well, peaking inside the top ten of several charts worldwide including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Ireland.
