We’ve seen him in bands, collaborating with numerous artists and even re-imagined as a cartoon character.

But for the first time in his music career, spanning a glorious 25 years, Damon Albarn is set to release his first solo album: Everyday Robots.

The 46-year-old has sought inspiration for the 12-track record from his own life, with a particular focus on his boyhood in Leytonstone and Colchester.

“The first time I came back (to Leytonstone) and out of the Tube I felt like a giant. Because all of my memories of the area are up until the age of nine.

“I grew up in 1970s multicultural London. From the smells coming out of people’s back kitchens, to the people I went to school with, to the music, to the general flavour of the place, that definitely played a big part in who I am.“

It’s clear he’s not forgotten his roots. For not only has he enlisted the musical talents of a Leytonstone choir – The Pentecostal City Mission Church Choir for track Mr Tembo, but on Wednesday (yesterday) evening, Damon, along with the choir, performed a special concert for family and selected fans at Leytonstone Library.

Guardian Freetime was honoured to be among the few invited to attend. Read the full story online shortly....

 

 

Everday Robots will be released on April 28.