Blur began recording in January 2023 at Albarn’s Studio 13 in London and Devon, with production by James Ford, who had worked with both Gorillaz and the Waeve. The album was finished by early May 2023. Albarn described The Ballad of Darren as "the first legit Blur album since 13, with the band all together in the room."

Each band member shared thoughts on the album. Albarn called it "an aftershock, reflection, and comment on where we find ourselves now." Coxon emphasized the importance of playing with the right emotion and intention as they've aged, while Albarn noted the album’s relevance to both their generation and younger audiences.