Blur - 'Out Of Time' (Parlophone)
5/5
By: Thomas Hannan
You'd forgive any serious Blur fan for wanting to hate this just a little bit. After all, it was always cooler to have Graham as your favourite. He didn't like Keith Allen so much. Doubt his collection of 'World Music' was that hefty either. It's facts such as these that leave Blur with one hell of a challenge; with their new material, they actually have to convert their own fanbase.
So the hardcore lay back with arms crossed. 'Come on then, impress us', they say, eyebrows raised. Blur put the sound of a sheep on. The early signs aren't good. Damon picks away at a classical guitar, a Moroccan orchestra pluck various stringed instruments behind him. Hmm. Then it hits you. This is arguably the greatest melody Mr Albarn has ever written.
Damon's found his 'prickles down your spine' voice again, and it's like listening to honey. Alex James also makes his most prominent performance on a Blur single since 'Girls & Boys', but by now you won't even believe this is the same band; Beck maybe, Leonard Cohen likely, Dylan, well... it's 'Mr Tambourine Man' on safari. The doubters won't just be converted; they'll be knocking on doors at ungodly hours in the morning spreading the Good News.
In short, 'Out Of Time' is sublime. Blur aren't back with a bang - more like a timely whisper of wisdom. They're a different band, yes. But a different band you can love just as much.
Artists in this article: Blur
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