There is much to be said for progression in a field where change is not always welcome. Bloc Party’s newest album A Weekend in the City does not entirely discard the heavy beats layered on a racing electronic tempo that the band has been known for; yet unlike the previous album, Silent Alarm, here Bloc Party seems to be testing the waters with more variations in musical compositions. While the band ought to be commended for branching outside of their comfort zone, such change could result in a mixed reception of this new album. It certainly demands more than a cursory listen to really appreciate the progress they have made.

Perhaps in light or alongside of the recent popularity and influence of mellow indie crooners such as Keane and Snow Patrol, Bloc Party has brought the volume of their music down a few notches. Or maybe it has nothing to do with the contemporary popular sounds. One thing for sure is that on Weekend there is an audible lack of pop rock-ness that is replaced by more thoughtful, lingering tunes, which can be heard in “Kreuzberg.” With lyrics like “After sex/ the bitter taste/ been fooled again/ the search continues,” the band seems to have hit upon a stinging reality that we can at least sympathize with. However, in “I Still Remember,” the song sounds faintly familiar as Bloc Party seems to have utilized a formula of echoing vocals and a recognizable melody to evoke a love song that comes off a bit over-sentimental.

If you’re looking for the Bloc Party of Silent Alarm in this new album, you might find yourself a bit disappointed. Not all of their conventions are lost, but often, as in songs like “Sunday,” the buildup to Bloc Party sound is often too tedious to work through. The gem of Weekend has to be “The Prayer,” as it seems to give the album a direction; with its volume reminiscent of the previous album and a melody that is both harmonious and disharmonious simultaneously, it brings to fruition the goal of the work as a project of change. This song and “Hunting for Witches” will satisfy your Silent Alarm itch while preparing you for the rest of this sophomore release.

Rating: 3.5 stars

Comments (2)

Subscribe to this comment's feed

Write comment

Name

Email

Title

Comment

Add Comment