BBC Electric Proms - Bloc Party; Maps October 27, 2007

*** Bloc Party ***

East London art-rockers Bloc Party emerged in 2005 with their frenetic and critically acclaimed album 'Silent Alarm'.

Success beyond European shores led the foursome on a whirlwind tour of the globe, playing to capacity crowds in the US, Australia and Japan as their album climbed the charts in 17 countries.

Returning to London in early 2006 somewhat exhausted, the band set about work on their second album, 'A Weekend In The City'. Okereke’s aim was to create a more honest and thematic album, capturing the cacophony of their East London environment. With production from Jackknife Lee (U2, Snow Patrol), the result is an epic, emotional and sonically adventurous work.

Bloc Party will bring their urgent and intelligent rock to the historic Roundhouse along with some surprises guaranteed to make this a unique performance.

*** Maps ***

James Chapman gave birth to his 'Maps' project in his bedroom, writing and recording his experimental dream-pop on a multi-track recorder, sans computer. His debut LP, 'We Can Create' heralded a new phase in Chapman's career and was nominated for the 2007 Mercury Prize for best UK or Irish album of the year.

With Icelandic producer Valgeir Sigurdsson (Bjork, Bonnie 'Prince' Billy) on hand, and mixing from Ken Thomas (Sigur Ros), 'We Can Create' is full of lush soundscapes and emotive guitar fuzz.

Joining forces with a 5 piece live band, James Chapman took to the stage at Reading Festival this year and has since visited the USA. He returns to the UK in October and joins the BBC Electric Proms line-up in support of Bloc Party.

*** BBC Electric Proms ***
This gig is part of the BBC's Electric Proms festival which takes place across Camden on 24-28 October. Over 80 artists are performing and they've all been encouraged to create something unique for their shows.

The gigs will be broadcast across BBC TV, radio and will be online to watch at:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/electricproms/

Official Website: http://www.bbc.co.uk/electricproms/