About this album
Where they were
Released on February 10, 1997, this self-titled album marked a significant turning point for Blur following their commercial peak with 'The Great Escape'. After the band's struggle with maintaining public interest in the wake of Britpop's saturation, this album represented a shift towards experimentation and a broader sound palette, distancing themselves from their earlier hits.
Why it matters
Blur debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart and featured the iconic track 'Song 2', which became a global hit and is often regarded as an anthem of the era. The album's eclectic style and critical acclaim showcased Blur's evolution, influencing subsequent bands in the alternative rock scene.
Essential tracks
- "Beetlebum" — 'Beetlebum' encapsulates the album’s introspective side, merging catchy melodies with darker lyrical themes about desire and confusion.
- "Song 2" — This explosive track stands out as a defining moment in Britpop, known for its raw energy and memorable ‘woo-hoo’ chorus that propelled it into mainstream popularity.
- "Country Sad Ballad Man" — This song showcases Blur's shift towards more abstract lyrics and moody instrumentation, reflecting a deeper emotional complexity within the album’s narrative.
- "Death of a Party" — 'Death of a Party' combines haunting melodies with a sense of existential reflection, representing the band's willingness to explore darker themes amidst their signature sound.
Release Date
February 10, 1997
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Tracklist
- 1 Beetlebum 5:04
- 2 Song 2 2:01
- 3 Country Sad Ballad Man 4:50
- 4 M.O.R. 3:27
- 5 On Your Own 4:26
- 6 Theme From Retro 3:37
- 7 You’re So Great 3:35
- 8 Death of a Party 4:33
- 9 Chinese Bombs 1:24
- 10 I’m Just a Killer for Your Love 4:11
- 11 Look Inside America 3:50
- 12 Strange News From Another Star 4:02
- 13 Movin’ On 3:44
- 14 Essex Dogs / Dancehall / Interlude 11:24