Album releases

Damon Albarn’s cross continental collective produces the usual combination of worthy but spotty collaborations on the follow-up to their 2016 Syrian collaboration. Recorded in Johannesburg with both local stars and fellow visitors, including London grime star MC Ghetts and Gruff ‘Super Furry Animal’ Rhys, it’s an intriguing mixed bag that doesn’t always hang together. That said, Gruff shines and the determination to keep breaking through generic and cultural barriers is worth applauding.