SXSW Reviews

Bloc Party

A Weekend in the City (Vice)

Anthemic impulses collide with heady electronic effects on Bloc Party's second album. The good news is that the band remains committed to broader themes rather than mere tales of lost love. BP is the product of 21st century London, after all, and that means its attempt to rise above homegrown urban malaise – not to mention hometown terrorism – carries significance on both sides of the Atlantic. "Hunting for Witches," for instance, tackles the war on terror head-on. Unfortunately, relentless rhythms and muddy production motifs drown the lyrical ambitions that made the band's 2005 debut, Silent Alarm, noteworthy. Ironically, in contrast to the songs confronting global tensions, the most captivating tracks, like "Kreuzberg," find frontman Kele Okereke sighing personal confessions. Still, this young band has something fresh to say, which softens the letdown that their late attempt at post-punk heroism falls short. (Thursday, March 15, Stubb's, 12mid)