Bloc Party – Four
Album Review by Morgan Waldorf
Four seems to be an appropriate title for British group Bloc Party’s newest album. There are four musicians in the band, it has been four years since their last album Intimacy, and this is their fourth studio album. After the four year hiatus and lead singer Kele Okereke’s solo album in 2010, rumors swirled and some weren’t sure if Bloc Party would make it to a fourth album. However those rumors proved false and Bloc Party are back with a brand new sound.
This record tones down the electronic feel Bloc Party’s previous work was filled with and adds more guitar in it’s place. The album is heavier and louder, a step in a fresh new direction. There is a very cohesive sound throughout the whole album that’s very rock and roll while still featuring the danceable sound one expects from Bloc Party.
“So He Begins To Lie” opens the album strongly with a heavy hitting guitar riff and memorable chorus. It’s a perfect way to ease yourself into this new, heavier sound.
The lead single “Octopus” is the most danceable song on the record with a thumping drum beat, synth and a very electro-pop feel. This song will fit in perfectly within a setlist of Bloc Party fan favorites such as “Helicopter” and “Mercury” on the band’s upcoming US tour.
“Coliseum” is a standout track because of it’s folk sounding guitar riff intro and very hard rock sound. This song most shows Bloc Party trying something completely new and it working out well for them.
The record ends with “We Are Not Good People” which is fast, loud and punk rock influenced. While some people may not warm up to the new sounds of this album upon their first listen, this song might encourage them to give it another listen as it leaves you amped up and ready to hear more.
The whole album is full of surprises and new sounds. After the chaotic nature of the last four years, it’s safe to say that Bloc Party have come back strong and sure of themselves. With this record they’ve shown their ability to progress musically while not completely straying away from their previous influences and strengths. The band manage to combine the sounds of their electronic and pop influences with rock and continue to evolve and the product is a sound that feels all their own.
Overall Rating: 4/5
Website: www.blocparty.com
