Categories : Music Reviews, Rock + Pop.
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Rating: 4.5 / 5 Reviewer: Wade Oulette |
Bloc Party have taken the increasingly popular step to release their latest and third effort, Intimacy, in digital format many months prior to the expected release date. The fact that A Weekend In The City had leaked long before the album’s release date drove the band to think critically and leak this one themselves… Which is not to say they didn’t have fun doing it; spilling the beans only three days in advance of the online version’s release.
It is a shame that the first showcase of the album is heard in digital quality and not CD or vinyl, as there is a lot going on here. The opener ‘Ares’ delivers a highly experimental, yet very intriguing, first glimpse of what is to come. Intimacy‘s lead single ‘Mercury’ seems out of place with its unique horn presence, lack of guitars and repetitive vocals but, as always, is brought up by Matt Tong’s catchy and complex drumming. Tracks like the fan-pleasing ‘Halo,’ ‘Trojan Horse’ and ‘One Month Off’ recall Bloc Party’s debut effort, Silent Alarm, but with appropriate twists and just enough playful production to spray the febreeze and keep it fresh; the second shredding through your speakers with edgy tremolo guitars and Russell Lissak’s classic indie/punk riffs that Weekend seemed to lack.
Intimacy would not be a Bloc Party album without its share of ballads. Most of these seem to boast elements of Weekend, continuing to be painted (and sometimes brought down) with ambitious production. ‘Biko’ and ‘Zephyrus’ do not bring a whole lot new to the table; the former’s guitar hook and melody seem predictable and under-whelming, while the latter reminds you of the overly layered vocals that plagued the afro-mentioned sophomore effort. These faults do not continue with, or at least do not bring down, the majority of Intimacy’s ballads. ‘Signs’ gives us something new with its moody chime arrangements and playful synthesizers, the latter feature continuing in the beautiful closer, ‘Ion Square,’ complete with a hint of optimism that is not apparent in the majority of Kele Oreke’s dark relationship-driven lyrics. ‘Better Than Heaven’ drills its dark mood into you with a quick eerie intro and Oreke’s haunting vocals.
Intimacy is not without its minor faults but is a strong effort by Bloc Party. It brings familiarity while adding new dimensions, avoiding accusations of formulaic success. This will hold fans over until October 27, when a physical release will be accompanied by a few bonus tracks.
