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Bloc Party: one of England's greatest loved bands - if not THE Indie band - of this generation; a regular performer at various festivals worldwide, a universal sound, and also a band with rather prominent political views. Their recently released album 'Intimacy', maintains the Bloc Party stamp of wit and passion within the lyrics, however a more electro/alternative/dance sound replaces the sometimes predictable Bloc Party auto-tune. This is displayed perfectly by the band's latest release 'One More Chance'.
(Photography-Sophie Determann)
As I headed towards Mountford Hall,(in the freezing cold wind- a cardigan would have been an idea), I could already hear the eager (slightly intoxicated!) fans chanting: ' Give me one more gig, give me one more gig, give me one more gig to go to!' Here referring to Bloc Party's Drummer, Matt Tong's recent statement:
"We definitely need to have a break and gain a bit of perspective on life outside of the band. Hopefully, if we do reconvene at some point we'll be refreshed with many new ideas."

This notion of a 'break' was amplified during the gig, when the band stated, 'You'll all be really old before we play here again!' And although this announcement caused a mixed reaction within the audience, the band took it in their stride and carried on regardless, with an impressive two hour set. From the very beginning, Bloc Party front man, Kele Okereke, had engaged with the audience, stating almost immediately how much he loved to play in 'The City of my Birth', Liverpool. During 'This Modern Love', Okereke launched himself into the audience, providing even greater entertainment, and also causing over-confident audience members to crowd surf (there were at least ten individuals who were carried over the sea of perspiring heads!) Nevertheless, the atmosphere was immense and remained consistent.

(Photography-Sophie Determann)
 

The gig was an eclectic mix of the band's outstanding three albums, including crowd-pleaser 'Banquet' which was actually mixed into 'Song for Clay(Disappear here)' The lighting at this point, cleverly reflected each individual drum beat, causing utter carnage within the audience. This atmosphere was then juxtaposed with the incredibly mellow 'Kreuzberg'. The performance of this, highlighted Bloc Party's charisma as a band, as the audience reflected the sombreity of this particular song.

(Photography- Sophie Determann)

After a short- and well deserved break, the encore sustained what was so far, an incredible gig. The band ended the night with popular singles 'Helicopter' and 'Flux', ensuring that all members of the crowd heard their favourite Bloc Party anthem. In my opinion, the bands live rendition of 'The Prayer' was the highlight of my night, (along with Kele popping a condom balloon in time with the music!) The special effects and the lighting used throughout the gig, completely emphasised each individual song and mood intended, and ensured an enthralling show.

Overall, I can understand why the band feel the need for a break after this (cleverly named!) BLOCTOBER tour, as they will most definitely be ending on a high.

Bloc Party's New Album, 'Intimacy' is available to download NOW! Follow the band on Twitter- http://twitter.com/thisisblocparty.
 

(Photography-Sophie Determann)

Jennifer Wright