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Gorillaz New Album Shaped by Tragedy
Gorillaz’s ninth album blends global sounds and five languages, reflecting on bereavement and peace after the passing of band members’ fathers.
- Gorillaz today released 'The Mountain' on February 27, 2026 via Kong, described as arguably their most complete since 'Plastic Beach' in reviews.
- Following bereavement in July 2024, Jamie Hewlett's mother-in-law's stroke and death prompted work on the album, while Damon Albarn and Hewlett lost their fathers within 10 days, and Albarn scattered Keith Albarn's ashes in the Ganges.
- Drawing on Varanasi's rituals, Jamie continued that an urgent call from Jaipur led them to incorporate fire rituals and cremation traditions.
- Featuring songs in five languages, the album blends vocals in Arabic, English, Hindi, Spanish and Yoruba with collaborators like Johnny Marr, addressing love left behind and loss.
- Positioning itself artistically, Gorillaz's cartoon characters focused on 'mystical music making' as Damon added: 'I saw it as the perfect opportunity to give the whole world of Gorillaz a nice, new kickstart.
26 Articles
26 Articles
For over 25 years, the "Gorillaz" have been overwriting the traditional certainties of pop music. Now, on a new album, they devote themselves to the death of their own fathers – and end up with mountain metaphors and Hinduism.
The band's latest album, with Indian sounds, incorporates the principles of hybridization, travel and collaborations dear to training.
Gorillaz's ninth album is all about transformation and farewell. Mitski delivers an intriguing, growth-filled album with "Nothing's About to Happen to Me." Also featured are Michelle David & The True-Tones, North Sea String Quartet, and Hilary Duff.
‘The Mountain’ is Gorillaz’ best album in over a decade as themes of mortality are explored with a sense of celebration
When Gorillaz’ self-titled debut appeared in 2001 it felt like a one-off side project, a hobby horse for Damon Albarn during downtime from Blur. Fast-forward 25 years and it’s remarkable that Gorillaz’ latest album, The Mountain, is their ninth studio offering — the same number as Blur have released.
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