Julian Casablancas for the relations between the band members, Casablancas claims that in pursuit of a solo career, he is protecting the integrity of the [Strokes] vibe. In having a musical project separate from The Strokes, he is able to “chase down any idea [he] wants”, which he would refrain from doing with the band. His first solo album, "Phrazes for the Young" (inspired by the Oscar Wilde book "Phrases and Philosophies for the Use of the Young"), was released on November 2 in the UK and November 3, 2009, in the United States. Recorded in Omaha, Nebraska, and Casablancas' home city
Julian Casablancas and Sparklehorse on the song "Little Girl" on the 2010 album, "Dark Night of the Soul", contributing the lyrics, lead and backing vocals, and guitar solo. Aside from vocal collaborations, he also contributed to a song, "Forrest Gump", on Digitalism's sophomore album "I Love You, Dude" in 2011. The electronica duo initiated a collaboration with Casablancas through his manager, and Casablancas contributed 'a 30-second recording with him on guitar' via email. Casablancas also lent his vocals to the title track, "Rave On", on a 2011 tribute album to Buddy Holly, "Rave On Buddy Holly". In 2016, Casablancas contributed three specially