SXSW Record Reviews
Bloc Party
Hymns (Vagrant / Infectious / BMG)
Reviewed by Kahron Spearman, Fri., March 18, 2016
On devotional-influenced Hymns, the trajectory of Bloc Party moves from angsty kineticism to a fully angular groove, much closer to the electronic-tinged solo work of singer Kele Okereke. Neo-quiet storm jam "Fortress" finds the frontman in breathy ecstasy, purring with a muscular femininity. Their best track in years, "Different Drugs" describes the inevitable death of a troubled relationship. Expecting returns to the cocksure urgency and sense of appointment found in 2005 debut Silent Alarm are futile. Lacking the band's prior specificity, too much of the album languishes in uncommitted sprawl. (Thu., 11pm, Banger's)