For all the indisputable highs in Damon Albarn's back catalogue – with Blur; Gorillaz; The Good, the Bad and the Queen – openly autobiographical material has rarely had much of a look-in. That changes with his first solo album, which takes the listener on an elliptical tour of his life, from Leytonstone childhood (Hollow Ponds) to more recent adventures in west London (You & Me). A contemplative feel pervades throughout, and with greater focus on his lyrics, the backing is appropriately muted, save for the triumphantly uplifting closer, Heavy Seas of Love, and Mr Tembo's gospel touches. Little else is immediate, but the rich lyrical imagery brings real depth to this highly enjoyable album.