Blur bassist hints at what’s next following 2023 reunion, including virtual shows and Britpop nostalgia
Blur’s Alex James has sparked fresh speculation about the future of the iconic Britpop band by suggesting that an ABBA-style virtual avatar show could be on the cards.
Speaking to Greatest Hits Radio’s Ken Bruce, the bassist reflected on Blur’s critically acclaimed 2023 reunion, which included their first new album in eight years, The Ballad of Darren, and a pair of sold-out shows at Wembley Stadium—their first UK headline gigs since 2015.
Reflecting on the experience, James described it as “the best run of shows we’ve ever done,” and for the first time in the band’s history, the tour wrapped without any member declaring “that’s it, never again.”
Looking ahead, he outlined two potential futures for the band behind Parklife and Song 2:
“There’s two ways to go: either the ABBA thing—stop at the top and let it take its course, make avatars of yourself when you were 27 and beautiful. Or treat it respectfully, dip in and out occasionally… it’s a wonderful thing to step back into.”
James added that the band’s decades-long chemistry is “a gift,” but joked that the key is to avoid “overcooking it or annoying the guitar player or singer too much.”
Britpop Nostalgia: Blur vs. Oasis
James also weighed in on the buzz surrounding the Oasis reunion and their upcoming Oasis Live ’25 tour. Despite their once-heated rivalry during the peak of Britpop in the 1990s, he had nothing but praise.
“I look back at Britpop now and just think ‘what a brilliant time.’ Two brilliant bands, if I say so myself… I’m so delighted they’re getting back together. I’m not sure I’ll be going, but I’m delighted for them.”
With fans still riding high from Blur’s triumphant comeback and talk of virtual tours and nostalgic live shows, one thing is clear: the Britpop era isn’t done yet.
