Flirting with euphoric synth-pop and gospel, Bloc Party's fifth album reflects a change not only in the British alt-rock band's lineup (new bassist, new drummer), but also in their attitude. "I knew from the beginning I wanted to call it Hymns," says queer frontman Kele Okereke of the record's holy optimism. "Throughout my work, there have been recurring nods to faith. I'm not religious, but I did grow up in a religious household. I recognize that as a human being I have a spiritual dimension." Here, Okereke details Hymns' saintlier influences.
Hymns is out on January 29.
11 times J.K. Rowling did something wildly transphobic, ranked
The Harry Potter author has made no secret of her hate-filled anti-trans views.