Released on February 10, 1997, Blur marks a radical departure from the polished Britpop sound of their previous albums. Instead of the orchestral arrangements and satirical observations of The Great Escape (1995), the band embraced a raw, lo-fi, and American indie rock-inspired approach. Influenced by bands like Pavement and Sonic Youth, Blur stripped away their Britpop identity and explored grunge, garage rock, and experimental textures, resulting in an edgier, darker, and more introspective album. The recording sessions were marked by tension within the band, with Graham Coxon’s growing frustration with Britpop influencing the shift toward a noisier, more alternative rock sound. Damon Albarn’s songwriting also became more personal, moving away from social commentary and focusing on themes of isolation, fame, and emotional turmoil. Despite initial skepticism, Blur was a commercial and critical success, debuting at #1 on the UK Albums Chart and producing the massive hit "Song 2", which propelled the band to international fame. The album was instrumental in breaking Blur into the US market, where Britpop had struggled to gain traction.

Tracklist:

Side A
A1. Beetlebum
A2. Song 2
A3. Country Sad Ballad Man
A4. M.O.R.

Side B
B1. On Your Own
B2. Theme from Retro
B3. You're So Great
B4. Death of a Party

Side C
C1. Chinese Bombs
C2. I'm Just a Killer for Your Love
C3. Look Inside America
C4. Strange News from Another Star

Side D
D1. Movin' On
D2. Essex Dogs