About this album
Where they were
Released in 2009, 'Midlife: A Beginner's Guide to Blur' marked a significant moment in Blur's career as it compiled their most notable tracks from the 1990s and early 2000s. This album came after their hiatus following 'Think Tank' (2003) and before their reunion performances, providing a bridge from their past successes to future endeavors. It served as an accessible entry point for new listeners while celebrating their legacy.
Why it matters
This greatest hits compilation achieved commercial success, reaching number one on the UK Albums Chart and reaffirming Blur's status in the Britpop movement. It was well-received critically, praised for its cohesive selection of hits and its role in reigniting interest in the band's music during a time when they were largely absent from the mainstream.
Essential tracks
- "Song 2" — With its iconic riff and explosive energy, 'Song 2' epitomizes Blur's ability to blend catchy pop sensibilities with alternative rock bravado, making it a defining anthem of the era.
- "Girls and Boys" — 'Girls and Boys' stands out for its infectious chorus and lyrical exploration of hedonism, encapsulating the carefree spirit of the Britpop movement and resonating with fans across generations.
- "Coffee and TV" — This track highlights Blur's introspective side, combining whimsical lyrics with a melodic structure that reflects themes of longing and life's mundanity, showcasing their range beyond upbeat hits.
- "The Universal" — 'The Universal' features poignant lyrics about life’s cyclical nature, paired with orchestral flourishes, which elevate it as one of Blur's most emotionally resonant tracks.
- "Tender" — 'Tender' represents Blur’s softer side, focusing on love and vulnerability through heartfelt lyrics and a lush instrumentation that contrasts their more energetic tracks.
Release Date
January 1, 2009
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 Beetlebum 5:05
- 2 Girls and Boys 4:19
- 3 For Tomorrow 6:01
- 4 Coffee and TV 5:18
- 5 Out of Time 3:53
- 6 Blue Jeans 3:53
- 7 Song 2 2:01
- 8 Bugman 4:51
- 9 He Thought of Cars 4:16
- 10 Death of a Party 4:15
- 11 The Universal 4:00
- 12 Sing 6:01
- 13 This Is a Low 5:00
Disc 2
- 1 Tender 7:41
- 2 She’s So High 3:50
- 3 Chemical World 3:53
- 4 Good Song 3:07
- 5 Parklife 3:07
- 6 Advert 3:44
- 7 Popscene 3:15
- 8 Stereotypes 3:12
- 9 Trimm Trabb 5:36
- 10 Badhead 3:28
- 11 Strange News From Another Star 4:03
- 12 Battery in Your Leg 3:19