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)

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This article appears in March 18 • 2016.

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Kahron Spearman is a journalist and writer with bylines including The Austin Chronicle, Austin Monthly, Consequence of Sound, Texas Highways, and the London-based journal The Break-Down. He currently serves as Senior Editor at Atmosphere TV.