This dash of paprika comes in the form of Song Machine: Season One (Strange Timez), the 7th studio album of the virtual brain child of Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett. The album does not seem to have a theme or emotion running through it as seen on their previous works (Plastic Beach, Demon Days we’re talking about you) but instead acts as a unique insight into Albarn’s Spotify Wrapped.
Known for their guests, the band again come through with their promises. You have iconic legends such as Elton John, or the Cure’s Robert Smith intertwined with records from hip-hop greats like ScHoolBoy Q and JPEGMAFIA. The indie world is not forgotten, with appearances from Joan As A Police Woman and Unknown Mortal Orchestra. Essentially, this album is a smorgasbord of genres. With liquid smooth beats, Bowie-esque synths and even a nod to punk, there really is something for everybody with this album.
The artistry of Albarn is evident, with tracks moving from the powerful London-accented bars of grime royalty Skepta to the low sultry crooning of Tony Allen, all without skipping a beat. The mash of genres works.
This album is part of their Song Machine series, and it starts off with a strong bang and solid footing.
But wait! That’s not all! When I said Gorillaz are adding a splash of flavour, I meant it.
The next smattering of spice in a grey year comes in the form of a European tour announcement, scheduled for 2021. With live events taking a backseat for the year, it is something we have been missing. And with the Humanz / Now Now tour in 2018 giving us our last opportunity at seeing these cartoons live, it’s something we have been really really missing.
The tour, commencing in summer 2021, may be short, but I promise it’ll be sweet. Kicking off in June, you can catch the virtual gang in;
Cologne, Tanzbrunnen (16th June 2021)
Berlin, Parkbühne Wuhlheide (18th June 2021)
Luxembourg, Rockhal (1st July 2021)
London, The O2 (11th August 2021)
With a headline slot at Primavera Sound 2021 in Barcelona, 2021 could truly be the year of the Gorilla (z).
Lily Quarton-Parsons
@lilyquarton
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