World exclusive: Bloc Party discuss 2012 comeback

Talk of Kele Okereke spotting the other members of Bloc Party sneaking into a New York studio- and that a new singer was being recruited- was recently addressed by a bold (but brief) statement on the band's official website that read 'Bloc Party is still Bloc Party. See you soon.'

Now, talking exclusively to Andy Lloyd-Williams for Artrocker, drummer Matt Tong has revealed his confidence that the band will indeed return in 2012.

He said: “We've only been in the same room three or four times since we last played. I'm sworn to secrecy as to what has been discussed, but I'm fairly confident we'll be playing regularly again next year.

“It can be healthy for bands to have a break. Some married couples claim that opening up their relationships can inject some energy and excitement. Why not apply the same principle to a creative partnership?”

Now based in New York, Tong is close to completing a solo record-and is appreciating some alone time.

He added: “Although becoming a member of a touring band was the realisation of a boyhood dream, I was never particularly comfortable with the lifestyle entailed. A tad controversial, but other musicians are not that much fun to hang out with, I'm afraid. I lump myself in with that too, for the record.

“I am hoping to finish a record of my own by the start of 2012, before Bloc Party becomes a full-time concern again."