Many are familiar with the Gorillaz, the alternative British group of four animated members created by Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett in 1998. Their sound is hard to place in one specific genre of music, but can be described as a mixture of alternative rock, hip hop, electronica, reggae and pop.
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The Gorillaz soared to new heights in 2001 when they became the most successful virtual band, with their debut album selling over seven million copies. The albums that followed, “Demon Days” and “Plastic Beach,” were met with critical acclaim and earned the group various awards as well as a cult following.
The Gorillaz are now a prominent group in music all over the world, while still remaining low-key and mysterious at times. Their most recent album was released in 2010, and now, after a seven-year hiatus, fans can look forward to their fifth studio album, “Humanz,” slated to debut later this month.
Albarn has said in interviews that this new album will be a subtle, yet emotional response to politics today. The theme of “Humanz” is the poignant aftermath of a made-up, unexpected, world-changing event. Many believe Albarn based this loosely on President Donald Trump’s campaign trail and how he envisioned a world in which he won the presidency.
“Humanz’s” track listing has been released, and includes 26 new songs, with features from artists like Danny Brown, De La Soul and Pusha T, among others. Since the Gorillaz revolve around their animated characters, the album artwork for the new singles feature updated, smooth and aesthetically pleasing depictions of the virtual band members we are familiar with at this point.
The group has released four new songs so far off of the album: “Saturnz Barz,” “Andromeda,” “Ascension” and “We Got the Power.”
“Saturnz Barz” is beat heavy, but in the best way possible. The song has an interesting synth sound that is both intriguing and enjoyable. Popcaan, a Jamaican singer and DJ, takes over this track with his thick accent and appealing voice style. Its intense riffs are offset by the recognizable Gorillaz voice lingering in the background.
American rapper D.R.A.M. contributed to the lyrics on “Andromeda,” which has a more upbeat tempo while still sticking to the Gorillaz’s classic mellow vocals. This track has a really nice sound, with a lot of pop and dance elements to it. “Andromeda” is versatile and a great addition to any playlist.
“Ascension” is an energetic hit, with rapper Vince Staples effortlessly rapping intertwined with the Gorillaz’s compelling sound. The running background beat is extremely catchy, and Staples definitely leaves a lively mark on this album.
“We Got the Power” has a very different feel from the other singles released so far off of “Humanz.” It features Jehnny Beth, lead singer of English rock band Savages, and her unique vocals create an uplifting mix with the Gorillaz’s lyrics. Listen closely to this ballad and you can hear background vocals from Noel Gallagher, former Oasis band member as well.
The Gorillaz are sure to please fans on a global scale with this triumphant comeback, which was worth the very long wait. Loyal followers will be happy that the Gorillaz are sticking to the noteworthy sound they are best known for, while still creating new, quality content featuring some of the best artists out there today. I can’t wait to hear the complete album on April 28.