Bloc Party took another step toward becoming a non-entity today when its secret weapon from birth — terrifyingly precise drummer Matt Tong — announced he was leaving the band. (This was the secondary item in a batch of news that also included an announcement of the band’s next album.) Tong’s impassioned, economical drumming gave Silent Alarm much of its drive, which is what made it so sad last year when delusional front man Kele Okereke said Tong’s drumming had ruined the album. Here’s hoping the guy finds a better showcase for his talents soon; above, you can watch and listen as he builds “This Modern Love” from a whisper into a roar.
Update: The writer of the post I linked to now says it was a joke, and that Tong remains in the band. Blargh! Sorry for not confirming that one first.
