When in Manila, be sure check out the slew of international artists slated to perform in concert venues around the city. Bloc Party is scheduled to perform for local fans and music enthusiasts on March 22, so it’s just fitting to catch up on the mindset and outlook of the band after their long hiatus from the music scene. Drummer Matt Tong let us in on some details of the recording process on their latest album “Four” and what he expects when he steps foot on Philippine soil.
He was quite adamant in valuing the time spent just focusing on coming up with new material for the new record. As we’ve witnessed in some of our local acts, there is a tendency for band members to experience burnout when touring takes its toll on their lives. Matt says the two-year break helped them find value in “being part of a band”, and a successful one at that.
Bloggers and Writers enjoyed a 40-minute chitchat with Bloc Party’s drummer- Matt Tong
The approach in coming up with the final versions of songs involved adhering to suggestions made by the band and producer Alex Newport as they improved on each performance during jamming sessions. This resulted in “well-defined roles within the song” according to Matt, and this is quite instrumental in contributing to the overall identity of the album. Terms such as “honest” and “empowering” were mentioned in describing how the band felt about the experience.
Asked on how he wants Bloc Party to be remembered, Matt says he hopes that people eventually talk about “how they tried to do something different, to do something that was unexpected and break out of the mold of an indie rock band”. Quite strong words from a band member whose seminal group is already considered a significant influence to popular bands of today.
The group having a casual conversation with Matt Tong who was in Dublin for their tour when he took the call
Performing for the Philippine audience is something unique and different that Matt is quite excited about, and he shared his enthusiasm about trying out local restaurants featuring our native cuisine. This can only mean good tidings for those lucky enough to watch the show on March 22.
You can browse ticket prices through www.ticketnet.com.ph or you can join the various promos for tickets at Warner Music Philippines’ Facebook page and coming soon here in WhenInManila.com. From Feb 25 to March 21, 2013 get a 15% discount on ticket prices by using your BDO Credit Cards when purchasing at SM Ticketnet outlets and Araneta Box Office.
Bloc Party is ready to rock and waiting for you.
Bloc Party Drummer Matt Tong Shares His Thoughts About the Philippines and Their Upcoming Concert
