The Strokes will return to SXSW on Thursday, March 17th to play the Auditorium Shores Stage (at Lady Bird Lake). The show will be free and open to the public, courtesy of the fine folks at Levi’s, who will also provide footage of the show online one day after their performance. The New York five-piece rock-band return with their highly anticipated fourth album, Angles, to be released March 22nd via RCA in the US, and March 21st via Rough Trade in the UK. Angles is the band’s first new release in 5 years, and their showcase will be their first return to SXSW since their now-legendary 2001 showcase at the Iron Cactus.

“Simply put, The Strokes rock. They embody the same attitude that has been synonymous with Levi’s for years and we’re ecstatic to present them for free at SXSW,” said Christian Parkes senior director of marketing, Levi’s Strauss. “We’re also excited at being able to share the performance online, giving fans all over the world the opportunity to experience the show.”

2011 Showcasing Band The Strokes, Photo courtesy of RCA Records