Think Tank is the band's seventh album

Think Tank has been produced by DJ Fatboy Slim and some of the tracks were recorded in Morocco.

"Think Tank sounds utterly confident, sure-footed, and, in some ways, defiant", wrote BBC News Online's Stephen Dowling.

But what do you think?

This debate is now closed. Please see below for a selection of your comments.

A fine album. It sounds at points like The Great Escape and Blur, with the sonic invention of 13 married to tighter song structures. An experimental pop album that, thankfully, doesn't sacrifice the melodies in the name of art.
Martin White, UK

Everybody is entitled to their own opinion, of course, but I'd say Think Tank is the best Blur album since Parklife. Out of 13 tracks only two leave me puzzled (not quite sure about Jets) but everything else fits in perfectly and Damon Albarn has a thing or two to teach about songwriting. I am glad I spent the money to buy it and highly recommend it!

One more thing: why do people keep comparing the incomparable? What do groups like Coldplay have to do with a band like Blur? It's like comparing chocolate to wine...And can Coxon's fans stop taking it so personally? It's a shame he's gone, but...he's gone!
Miki, UK

Blur are an irrelevance and have been since their last album 13, which was frankly just cheek. No effort made at all except Tender, and even then, that was a lumpen Spiritualized rip-off. Listening to Think Tank is like reviewing a new Rolling Stones album and looking for innovation. Coxon simply fled an already burning building...and don't get me started on Gorillaz.
Michael Johnson, UK

Think again Blur. Very poor pseudo experimental garbage. I believe Damon recently stated that Think Tank would make Radiohead sound like Steps. How embarrassing for him. Instead he has shown that Blur have only had one songwriting talent in their ranks and sadly that talent left before this album was released.
Joxer Daley, Ireland

Well, what can I say?....AMAZING, I've grown up with Blur. I've listened to all the past albums. And I think they are one of the best bands in the 90s. Think Tank is wonderful, I'm waiting for them to repeat their visit to South America and I really hope that Coxon comes back. You cannot compare Blur with Oasis, Coldplay, Travis. Blur is above. Thank you guys for making this great album. Here in Chile, there are some of us who really appreciate it.
Pato, Chile

I'm a huge Blur fan and I think the new album is pretty good. I can't say it blows my mind or that any song really pops out as an incredible tune, but it's a good listen. It's pretty and soulful.
Shawn, Washington, DC, USA

Blur never fail to come up with the goods. This album is by far one of their best.
Zoe Daly, Scotland

The whole album is a good length and contains 13 catchy and original songs. It isn't instant pop, and for those here who want instant pop, then go and buy the latest "Busted - we're not a boy band, honest!� single. Think Tank requires a bit of work in order to be able to reap the rewards, I'm on the third listen now and I have just realised I actually do like song number seven, Caravan.
Marc, UK

You cannot compare Blur to other groups, especially melancholic ones like Coldplay.

All their albums have the diversity to hold your attention, and they are all an evolution from the last, much like the evolution that the Beatles showed in their records.

Thank heavens that a group is not afraid to try new influences and sounds, instead of the same tired formula as seems to be the norm for 95% of groups.
Neil, UK

Having been away from the UK for three years I eagerly awaited the new Blur. Did it fill me awe on first listen? No. But then again neither did I sling it in the bin. This is definitely one for quieter moments and involves some work from the listener. To its detractors I say look where we are, almost 10 years after Parklife, in a world dominated by the fallout of 9/11. Is it any wonder that Messers Albarn, Rowntree and James are no longer writing Mockney knees-up tunes?
Wes Jones, Japan

Brave and brilliant! Good on yer, lads!
Andie, USA

Why do we have to compare Blur with other bands, be it Coldplay or Oasis? Blur are one of the stand alone bands that the UK has been so great at producing since music began. Don't use class to criticise a band that's just inverted snobbery, and get over it. The important thing is the music being produced, and on Think Tank, Blur have shown yet again they can produce great (sometimes amazing) music.
Chris Lambeth, UK

I am by no means a Blur fan, except for the exceptional self-titled fifth album, which is IMHO, wonderful and diverse and about "the music, maan" rather than some daft scene... but their new album is excellent. I cannot stand Albarn at the best of times but again this is an album which has an integrity and soul lacking in 13 - Tender was sooo false it was cringeworthy. Ambulance is a fabulous opening song to boot.
Paul Q, Ireland

A fantastic album. And since when does it matter what class you are if you make good music? The middle class insult is one I only ever hear in connection with Blur, why? Are there no other middle class bands in the world? Does anyone dislike other blatantly middle class bands just because of where they come from? Blur have only ever suffered this abuse because of the Oasis contrast. To like Oasis because they are "real" working class lads is pathetic - all their songs sound the same and they excel only in abusing people. Blur on the other hand are musicians, and the way they continue to make great albums like this one just proves that.
Anna Collishaw, UK

The subtle textures and atmospheres that infiltrate the whole album seem to reveal themselves more with every listen, as do the melodies Jason Allen, UK

A fine album. It sounds at points like The Great Escape and Blur, with the sonic invention of 13 married to tighter song structures. An experimental pop album that, thankfully, doesn't sacrifice the melodies in the name of art.
Martin White, UK

I think that this album is fabulous, and a natural progression from their recent work. The music that Blur make seems to have tracked my changing tastes as I have grown, and I can barely believe that this eclectic and mature sound is from the same band that was engaged in the Blur/Oasis wars any more that I can remember what it felt like to desperately want a hooded top and Kickers.
Zoe, Wales

Blur have never been more than a bunch of pretentious middle-class idiots and their music has always reflected it. Fatboy Slim will ensure they get some credibility but whether or not that nerd with the glasses is in or out of the group, Blur are going nowhere. This album is for true fans only.
Russ David, United Kingdom

As Russ David clearly hates Blur, why did he listen to this album?!
Paul Gates, UK

The boys done good. I also love the art work by Banksy. I'm a big fan of his work.
Ashley, UK

It feels like you've been someplace else when you finish listening to Think Tank. The subtle textures and atmospheres that infiltrate the whole album seem to reveal themselves more with every listen, as do the melodies. Can't help but lament Coxo on hearing the simply beautiful guitar work on Battery In Your Leg. C'mon lads, have a beer and make up, you're the last ones left with anything important to say. Cheers for the tunes.
Jason Allen, UK

A grower? I hope so. At first listen, it seems to lack melodies, plumping for underplayed riffing and a strange blend of electro and acoustic soundscaping. Very, very different to Graham's awesome latest solo offering, much more production, much more "eerie noises"- the good ship Blur is a very different vessel without him, but one that seems to be sailing under a full sail! Can't wait to get to know this offering.
Ade, England

Once again Blur can exploit the fact that they don't have to worry about commercial success. They've made enough money from Parklife and The Great Escape to be able to make the music they want to make.

And a good thing it is too. Think Tank marks further progress for one of the best bands of the last decade or so.

I was at the infamous Shelter gig (before Parklife) which was assumed by many to be Blur's final appearance. Now I can't wait for Friday at the Astoria.
Simon, UK

Pretentious ego-fuelled rubbish. Save your money for something more deserving, like any of Graham Coxon's solo albums Matt Takaira, UK

Unlike some of their contemporaries in the Britpop boom of the early 1990s, Blur have never been a band to rest on their previous glories, except for The Great Escape perhaps.

This album, as with their previous two outings, shows a marked maturity in their musical journey. Unlike some of their contemporaries, Oasis for instance, who seem to be treading old ground again and again like a modern day Status Quo. In short, a fine album.
Mark Yeates, UK

Two words. Depression central. The only two songs I liked on the album were: We've Got a File On You" and Out of Time. I always thought the band revolved around the tension between Mr Coxon and Mr Albarn. The ship is sinking. I'm afraid that Out Of Time will be the last we hear of Blur. Unless the three release a jazz-folk-techno fusion album which Damon seems to be gunning for if Think Tank is anything to go by. Shame.
Jason Mcgue, UK

No Coxon = No Blur.
Mike, UK

Rubbish. Glad I checked it out before wasting money on it.
Matt Whitby, Hampshire, UK

Shut up - Blur are our last great pop band and yet some people don't even know it! Have you actually heard any of their recent work? The fact that some people are comparing it to their best work is an astonishing feat in itself. They can be a success - Coxon is merely like Verve's McCabe, a bit difficult. Albarn's tastes in music are wide-ranging which is a good thing because it ensures longevity. And who are you to say the middle class can't enjoy themselves? Pathetic.
Jonathan, UK

Blur have always stood head and shoulders above Oasis. This album yet again proves their ability to innovate over time when other bands continue to stick with a tried and tested formula ripping off the Beatles in the process. This album consists of a variety of songs to cater for mixed tastes. I would have to strongly disagree with Russ David's comments, I am presuming "our kid" is located north of London and skint!!.
Scott "Batty" Bennett, UK, Stoke on Trent

Pretentious ego-fuelled rubbish. Save your money for something more deserving, like any of Graham Coxon's solo albums.
Matt Takaira, UK

A wad of depressing garbage. It seems that this was written after Coldplay's latest offering Rush of Blood to the Head, only difference is Coldplay's album was a changing point in music for the good, Blur's new album is a step back. Gone are the days of Parklife and Country House. They are trying too hard to show progression and it has turned out to be ultimately depressing.
Scott Webster, Edinburgh

In some parts Think Tank verges on being too experimental but they just about pull it off because of the quality of everything else. Out of time is just beautiful and the noises used in Gene by Gene are fantastic.
Keith, Brit in Germany

I sense some insecurity in Planet Blur. Are people not allowed to post dissenting opinions?
Dave Barker, United Kingdom

In reply to Paul Gates, I listened to the album so I could be sure I knew what I was talking about. As for me living north of London and skint, try near Swansea and working in IT.

I stand by my words, Blur have tried to be lads but they're too middle class to be laddish. Whatever mass appeal they may have enjoyed in the mid-90s has long since been watered down. As I said, ONLY true fans will enjoy their latest drivel.
Russ David, United Kingdom

I think too many people instantly compare Blur, Oasis and even Coldplay. I think Think Tank has more in common with Radiohead, think Kid A, and Amnesiac.

It's not as clean, and has a more gritty sound, and technically they are coming from different places, but with Think Tank, they are taking a similar direction.

Blur have opened the throttle a little more here. It will be interesting to see where they go from here.
Michael Wawra, UK

All I can say is very, very disappointing, a truly dull album but in my opinion the writing was on the wall with 13. Blur will be remembered for the superb Parklife, Great Escape and Blur, especially the latter. They were albums that achieved Beatles-esque quality, that being eclectic, hypnotic and melodic music that pushed the boundaries.

Now they've joined the "art for art's sake" albums i.e. Two Virgins, Tin Machine, U2's Pop and the scandalous Kid A. The golden rules of the art album seem to be: avoid melody, use as much repetition as possible. We now know why Coxon left the band. What next for Blur? Complete the metamorphosis and turn into Radiohead? Thank god for Coldplay.
Byron Kendle, Wales

A fantastic album, Blur are a band that simply refuse to stay still. For some, Think Tank may be a step too far from previous material but for me, this is a refreshing change, a great sound and an inspirational listen.
Gofannon LeBoutillier, UK

My immediate impression of Out of Time was brilliant, and seeing as it usually takes me a couple of listens to realise a new release's potential, I knew the album would not disappoint. I fell in love with songs such as Sweet Song and Battery in Your Leg straight away, and the heavier stuff is what you would expect from Blur - fresh and punchy.

It has a gorgeous mix of songs, and the African influences, and influences of producers Fatboy Slim and William Orbit are also clear. Blur are back at the top where they should be making me laugh whenever anybody even tries to compare them with Oasis, who burned out years ago. Long live Blur, come back Graham!! TOP BANANA!!!
Adam Widdrington, England

Wow! Think Tank is a fantastic album. I wasn't sure how it'd be without Graham. But the Blur lads have put together another brilliant album. Do I dare say at such an early stage it's their best yet? I'm just very, very, jealous of all you lucky lot who are seeing them at the Astoria.
Matt Begg, England

The one band that I have grown up with and who have grown up with me. The one band whose work will still fill me with excitement and expectation because I never quite know what to expect. Think Tank is a work of beauty. It doesn't matter that it doesn't sound like Parklife just like it didn't matter that Parklife didn't sound like Leisure. If I want to hear those albums I can listen to them. I want to hear a band evolving, having the guts to try something new and that's what I've got.
James, UK

Russ is entitled to his opinions - but I'd like to know who he rates. I think most recent Blur albums have usually featured some great songs and some diabolical fillers and this one is no exception. Bit of a mixed bag really.
David Grover, UK

Listened to it the other day and I have just read all the other views here. I'm now beginning to question my taste in music. I cannot believe that some people think it's actually good. It's the biggest waste of a plastic disc I have ever heard. The electro sounds and plinks and plonks on some of the tracks are totally inexplicable, I was straining to find a melody at all. Poor Blur, it must be quite a sad day when you have to revert to off the scale experimentation to find any originality. Best left on the shelf methinks!
Paul Feechan, Scotland

This is another typical Blur album (apart from Parklife!) which takes a few listens to appreciate the excellent music involved. There are no unbelievably catchy tunes like the awesome Last Night by the Strokes or Seven Nation Army by the Stripes, but more of an all round good album full of different sounds from what we're used to at the moment. I think it's a shame Coxon has left but they have proved that he wasn't the one inspiration in the band which some people thought. Looking forward to some good live shows ahead!
Charlie Milner, England

A superb album that is varied but which also sounds like classic Blur. I Think On The Way To The Club And Brothers And Sisters are my current favourites.
Daniel Watkins, Wales

The sad thing is that Blur have forgotten how to write tunes! The album just sounds like a mish-mash of jams that have been pieced together to form "songs". Damon's vocals are the album's saving grace. There's a lot of soul and melody conveyed, but the tunes aren't strong enough to benefit this aspect. I don't think the record lacks focus because of Graham's absence, but the band need to be a little bit more disciplined in terms of quality control. Another promising opportunity missed.
David Martin, UK

An exceptional return for Britain's best!
Gareth, UK

This album shows a remarkable return to form for Blur. Since Parklife I have struggled to listen to any whole Blur album without skipping through the fillers. I found this album to be experimental in places but ultimately full of cracking melodies and tunes.
Danny Short, England

This is a fine album - mixed pace, with a rich mix of sounds and styles - it shows the maturity that Blur have reached. In many ways, "defining" albums such as Parklife are more about the social climate at the time, married to the content within. This is probably not a defining album, but it definitely lines up alongside everything else they've done as an object lesson in musical progression without losing site of an important ingredient: melody. Listen to it a few times then try telling me it's flat and lifeless - on the contrary, it's sublime and rich with subtleties that only come with actually listening to it. If Coldplay can achieve 50% of what Blur have then they'll be doing well.
Charlie, UK

I like the album, Blur have gone past being a pop combo and don't really have to sell millions. The fact that they experiment and do not stick to the same tired sound like Oasis is a plus point. As for the middle class, North/South debate, didn't that die with Britpop in the mid 90s? It's so boring that people still harp on about it. Its a shame Graham is no longer with Blur but the whole it's a good album with some great tracks (Out of Time and Ambulance).
Mike, Brighton, England

Blur have successfully weathered that much publicised music genre of Britpop. They have changed their style on more than one occasion, showing their musical ability and if I may bring up the now annoying Oasis spat, that this makes them better than Oasis. Oasis have constantly brought out music and albums that have been almost carbon copies of the last one. Blur have created something beautiful with Think Tank and we still love them.
Conor, Ireland

Think Tank is the kind of album that will influence musicians for years to come. For David Russ to call Blur idiots seems somehow ironic in the face of their continued accomplishments.
Nigel Thomas, England

The expectation and consciousness of a new direction for the band have been dispelled. This "new" effort is nothing shocking nor distasteful. It is simply received with an air of disillusionment.
Isabel Burgess, USA