Albert Hammond Jr has spoken out about the status of The Strokes at the moment, saying that being in the band is 'fun, but not a challenge'.
The Strokes guitarist turned solo star is gearing up to release his brilliant third LP Momentary Masters on Friday (31 July). Before it officially hits shelves, Gigwise asked Hammond how recording the LP felt in comparison to the spirit of working with The Strokes at their recent shows.
"I think the biggest competition with that is more trying to create something where Strokes fans can like it but you're trying to find new fans too," Hammond told Gigwise. "I guess it's always been a healthy competition. We don't always plan the shows to feel the back and forth. With The Strokes, as much as you need to convince people, they're already convinced. They're there to just enjoy it. I'm still trying to establish myself so everywhere I go, my energy is of a 'make it or break it' kind of feel."
He continued: "You've got to try and conquer. Maybe if we made a new record we'd try to conquer but right now, it's just not as much of a challenge. It's fun, but it's not a challenge."
When quizzed on the mood within the band, Hammond replied: "I have no idea. My personality just doesn't allow for that so I keep The Strokes on the side until I have something going on. Otherwise it would just drain me of energy.
"It's the missed opportunity of not playing the shows that's sad. I know that, I feel that, but if I keep on thinking like that I'm going to shoot myself in the head - because it's fucking depressing."
Hammond previously caused concern when he said that their epic Hyde Park show may well have been their last ever gig together.
Watch the video for 'Losing Touch' below
Albert Hammond Jr releases Momentary Masters on 31 July. Stream it before release here.
His full upcoming UK tour dates are below. Tickets go on sale at 9am on Friday 26 June. For tickets and information, visit here.
NOVEMBER
16 - Oxford O2 Academy 2
17 - Manchester Gorilla
19 - Birmingham Hare and Hounds
20 - Leicester O2 Academy 2
21 - Glasgow CCA
23 - Portsmouth Wedgewood Rooms
24 - Bristol Fleece
25 - London Islington Assembly Hall
26 - Brighton Old Market
