THE STROKES - THE STROKES CELEBRATE SOBER CASABLANCAS

THE STROKES frontman JULIAN CASABLANCAS' decision to reduce his alcohol intake has saved the group, according to his bandmates.

The LATE NITE hitmakers were recently interviewed by cult writer JAY McINERNEY for an article in New York Magazine, during which Casablancas' bandmates admitted their darkest days in 2004 were due to the singer's drinking problems.

Drummer FABRIZIO MORETTI says, "Julian's become a lot more communicative since he quit drinking."

Guitarist NICK VALENSI adds, "Julian quitting drinking had a big effect on the dynamic of the band. Instead of the four of us excluding Julian and getting together and venting and airing our concerns, he's a part of it now.

"He's a lot more approachable and communicative. He's letting us know what's on his mind."