"Hymns" is the fifth studio album by English indie rock band, Bloc Party. Released on January 29, 2016, it marked a departure from the band's traditional style, venturing into a more electronic and ambient style of music. Prior to the release, the band had undergone significant changes, with original members Matt Tong and Gordon Moakes leaving the band. As a result, "Hymns" featured a new line-up including Justin Harris and Louise Bartle.
The album was founded mainly on the themes of spirituality and devotion, with frontman Kele Okereke's engagement with spiritual themes becoming more evident in his songwriting. This is particularly noticeable in the title, which refers to a form of religious music. Despite this shift in sound and line-up, the album received mixed reviews upon release, with some critics finding the new musical direction refreshing, while others longed for their earlier sound.
Of the album's four singles, "The Love Within," "The Good News," and "Virtue" are particularly well-known. The first single, "The Love Within," is a danceable, synth-heavy track with a pop-influenced sound, while the second, "The Good News," marks an exploration into country blues. Despite its mixed reception, "Hymns" nevertheless marked a significant moment in Bloc Party's career, showcasing their ability to reinvent their sound while maintaining the essence of their identity.
