blur came back in a big way in 2023. Recent sold out stadium gigs plus a live streamed event where the band played the entirety of new album The Ballad of Darren. Alex James’ bass grooves were a highlight on several tracks, as he lounged on a sofa in short pants. The new release produced by James Ford sees the foursome in introspective mode with mainly slower, atmospheric tracks. Damon’s voice sounds calm and laidback on nearly every track barring the single “St. Charles Square” that shows off the band’s punkier side with shouts and Graham Coxon’s guitar squalls.
First song, “The Ballad” is the reworking of an older Albarn track that his friend Darren encouraged him to go back and finish. The electronic beat compliments the contemplative track. “Russian Strings” claims that “there’s nothing in the end, only dust/so turn the music up”. “Barbaric” is a catchy, jangly guitar track that asks, “now where are we going?”. “The Heights” adds dramatic strings and more of a solid beat from Dave Rowntree that eventually turns to static before shutting down completely.
The highlight of the album is first single, the anthemic “The Narcissist”. Partly based on an acid trip from many years ago, Coxon adds vocals on the verses before the chorus breaks in with the infectious line, “I’ll be shining light in your eyes/you’ll probably shine it back on me”. The deluxe version adds two tracks including the much needed upbeat “The Rabbi” and a better album closer of “The Swan”.
On blur’s return, the tracks on The Ballad of Darren could use an injection of energy which makes the deluxe copy the go to version. Some of the songs can blend into one another but several of the singles will be played in all future reunion gigs to an adoring crowd. Now playing to an aging Britpop crowd, the mature slant to the songs will see many identifying with the messages, leaving behind the cheeky chappy character sketches of the band’s past.
8/10
The Light Appears 