The Strokes Nikolai Fraiture and Julian Casablancas have fuelled rumours that the band are about to start recording their fourth album in January 2010.

On 21 November Fraiture posted a message on his Twitter page that reads: "While the guys are in L.A., I went to scout some studios in NYC with Ryan [Gentles -- The Strokes manager] today for what looks like Jan recording!!! mood = f------ excited!"

Comments made by Casablancas in a recent interview with Pitchfork also add weight to the rumours. "We're supposed to get back together in January," he said, before adding, "but don't hold me to that."

The singer continued, "We've been trying to do it for years. I'm always available and they know that but getting together is tough."

The band members' extracurricular activities have so far caused a delay to work on the much-anticipated record. Guitarist Albert Hammond Jr. has released two solo albums, drummer Fab Moretti has performed various guest spots and released an album as part of the band Little Joy, while Fraiture has a band called Nickel Eye and Casablancas a recently released solo album called 'Phrazes for the Young.'

The Strokes' last album, 'First Impressions of Earth,' was released in January 2006.