Hymns

Ok, so this isn't the Bloc Party of Silent Alarm. Everyone who loves only that version of Bloc Party can go back and enjoy it on repeat along with all of the other Bloc Party songs on their other releases that match up with that sound.This is a new sound and a new atmosphere for Bloc Party and it's very transcending for the listener.For me, this album is more atmospheric and reflective than any of their others. Don't get me wrong, I love them all. But this one has something special in terms of emotional kinship between the band and the listener.My favorite song right now is "Different Drugs" which refers to the distance that has developed in a long term relationship.When he sings these words, we get a up close view of the desperate desire to somehow recapture a passion that no longer is there:"And if there was a pillWe could take to find each otherWould you drop with me?Would you follow me down?And if there was a leafWe could smoke to meet each otherWould you blaze with me?Would you chase with me?"These, along with the other raw lyrics on the album, create an intimate experience between listener and band.Because of this, Hymns may very well be the most real that Bloc Party has ever been.

The 5th album from the Bloc, the first since drummer Matt Tong and bassist Gordon Moakes left. This album showcases a new direction for BP, something they've done every release. This album feels more mature than Four, with almost Intimacy levels of emotion and depth. I've seen other reviews and press releases say this was a horrible album, and lemme tell you, they're wrong. Something people need to realize is that Silent Alarm was over ten years ago now The band lineup has changed, one of the members has had a kid, they've all grown so much, their tastes have changed. They're pulling influences from other projects they've done, or from other bands that have inspired them. They can't keep punching out a SA type album every time. They have never repeated themselves. Every album has been vastly different than the last, and that's what makes them so lovable, and so amazing. Standout songs on this album are Into The Earth, My True Name, and Only He Can Heal Me. Sadly, my personal favourite song isn't on the core album though. Paraiso is only available with the bonus download songs. Overall, people need to realize that while this isn't like Silent Alarm, no album they've done is like SA. They've constantly changed their style, and this is still a fantastic album because of that. Raw emotion, and personal struggles drip over top a very somber and impacting backdrop of Kele's signature vocals, and Russell's incredible guitar work. While not the best, it definitely stands on it's own as an incredible album, by an incredible band.

There are some real gems on here. Solid outing by bloc party. The lyrics are very introspective, personal and raw. Kele really bears his soul one this record that's what makes it very interesting to listen to. It fits the Hymns concept of the album. The album starts strong, But it is hampered by far too many slow songs, especially near the end of the album which makes the album feel more plodding and anti climactic than it really is. The guitar work is great and after recently seeing them live I can attest the new drummer and bass player are great.

This new release finds BP still heading in a more electronic direction, which is a bummer for me. A few of the songs are good, but it feels like there's an awful lot of filler tracks on this record. I really enjoyed the last 2 between-record EPs, but each subsequent release seems to be heading in a more electronic and less organic instrument direction. Perhaps it'll grow on me in time, as it's not a bad record, just not the record I was hoping for.

Overall, listening to this album feels like eating beef stew with the meat and potatoes removed. It still tastes good, but you come away feeling unsatisfied and a little disappointed. I can't fault Kele and Russ for going simple on much of the album, especially the rhythm, as they are only 2 men doing the work of 4. Also, going simple isn't necessarily a bad thing, as it has worked well for them in the past. To me, I feel like they tried to do too much in too little time. With the arrival of Justin and Louise, I'm sure the next album will be back to the amazing music we're used to hearing from Bloc Party.Pros: Considering this was done by 2 guys in a short time, bravo for coming together and writing a full length LP with B-sides. I couldn't have achieved this and I believe it shows how talented they are. Also, Kele's voice is astounding, and he shows how far he has come since their EP and demos. However...Cons: Kele's vocals lack the versatility and dynamic range that he is capable of. He sings lows and highs very well, and to not hear him change it up like he usually does was disappointing. The rhythm is definitely the weakest point, with little to get excited about (which is huge after the epic combo of Matt and Gordy). I also feel like there is an overall lack of variety, with most songs following a general sound scheme. This may be by design, but it makes the songs blend together in a way that makes each feel unremarkable in its own right.This is not meant to be mean or overly critical, just an honest expression of a die-hard fan. And no, Silent Alarm is not my favorite album.

Every album by bloc party is I frequent experience for me, and each one teachers me something new, I feel. I can't definitively say this band is without flaw, but as long as I grow from listening to their music, it's perfect! I hope everyone enjoys it as much. The worst thing about this buy was I didn't get the option to buy a digital version of the deluxe version, so I feel like I'm missing out on the way the band entended for me to experience it.

I am sick at home this week but have given this one good listen so far. I have been mesmerized by The Love Within since I first heard it. A friend shared the first Bloc Party single with me years ago, and no matter which direction they grow, I continue to be entertained if not amazed. personal goal: to be able to cover one of these songs faithfully.