The Strokes’ Nick Valensi Joins Jack White to Jam the Fuck Out in Los Angeles

Guitarist Nick Valensi has been absent from The Strokes’ touring lineup since May and it remains unclear when he’ll return. On Monday night, however, Valensi made his return to the stage — albeit as a surprise guest for another beloved rock act born out of the early aughts: Jack White.

Valensi joined White for two performances during the latter’s show at the Hollywood Palladium, first teaming up for a sick-as-hell jam out on The Raconteurs’ “Broken Boy Soldier” and then the live debut of “Bless Yourself,” a track from his solo album No Name.

The Strokes have a big hometown show at Flush Meadows Corona Park this weekend that there’s been some hope on the band’s subreddit that Valensi might return for that gig. Maybe White was just helping him get warmed up.