Regrouping after several years apart, Blur are back with ‘The Ballad of Darren’. Named after a member of their security, the album is an exploration of universal themes including reflections on ageing, changing perspectives, regret, and the folly of youth. ‘The Ballad of Darren’ is the first since ‘13’ that found all members writing in the same room at the same time. The result is a cohesive sound that tends towards a lighter touch but still manages to hit Indie Pop highs on ‘The Narcissist’ and a wayward punkiness on ‘St. Charles Square’, both plausible inclusions should Blur decide to release volume two of their Greatest Hits in the future. For much-loved bands, returns to the limelight are tricky, and returns to form are harder still. If eight years is what it takes for Blur to produce work like this, then we’ll accept the wait.