Gorillaz

Damon and Jamie, Jamie and Damon. Who could have thought that an agreement to live in an apartment after breakups in their relationships, ranting about the state of the music business and plasticity on TV, would lead into one of the more consequential and influential groups on music history. Never before had their been a virtual group (shrouded in mystery before the jig was up) making music as though the 22nd Century was on their front door and have it be the basis for complete and utterly eclecticism. It shouldn't have worked (in lesser hands, it wouldn't have) but, thankfully, it did and provided its creators a new springboard for their creativity after years of being acknowledged (rightfully) for who and what they were. Their albums would get more ambitious, more hit-laden, more guest-starring but this is where it starts and what a start it is.

Wow, despite the fact that this tore through my university like norovirus on a cruise ship, I forgot just how absolutely fucking boring this trope is. The diametric opposite of what I consider to be good music.

Tepid. Boring. Pedestrian. Damon Albarn coasting because of a post-grunge hangover?

I was only familiar with Gorillaz hits until now. I found the LP got off to a so-so start with the first two songs, but really picked up after that. The sequence of songs that begins with New Genius (brother) is great and there’s absolutely no filler until the end of the album. I especially like Sound Check (Gravity). The cast of characters that Damon Albarn brings in keeps it fresh and you never know what to expect. Despite the high level of creativity and genre swings it all hangs together nicely (even Ibrahim Ferrer sounds like he belongs)! A great album.

It brings a lot to the table but does not set it. Good but messy.

Garbage. Didn’t like this. Was never a fan of Blur and Damon Albarn’s voice just grates on me. Nil point. (Said in a French accent France 🇫🇷)

I think we are lucky to have Damon

Well, I guess 13 is my lucky number since this is the 13th album I got here. Not the first time I'm listening to it. I love everything Damon Albarn - from Blur to Gorillaz. And this Gorillaz album is no exception. Re-Hash - introduces you to the fun Gorillaz-specific beat and has an almost optimistic note to it. It signals that the album is gonna sound catchy from the start. Absolutely love the work on vocals here, specifically during the "It's the money or stop" part; the way Damon ends it with "It's yeah" is simple, but it seals the deal for me. 5 / 4 - probs my favorite song in 5 / 4 time. The way Damon uses his voice here to enhance the simple lyrics is perfect. The “ She made me kill myself” part is just *a chef’s kiss* Tomorrow comes today - nice use of harmonica, a more moody, slower song. Definitely interesting, and shows the versatility of this album’s sound New Genius (Brother) & Sound Check (Gravity)- these 2 go a bit hand in hand for me and probs are my least favorite of the album, sure they still have their purpose, and even the “Dj-ing” sounds have their place here Clint Eastwood - classic. A well-balanced sound, between Damon’s melodic verse and Teren’s rap. And the beat is just perfect. Man Research (Clapper) - fun little song Punk - symbolically mixed at places with “digital” sounds Double bass - feels like an interlude for the second part of the album While I think the first half of this album is definitely stronger, I still have here some highlights: Starshine, 19-2000 All in all, not a perfect album, but still a great one. A 4 / 5 in my book.

Not sure what’s going on with the Gorillaz album, as it was all over the place – and much of it was forgettable… There were a couple of rap songs that were pretty pedestrian… There was a Latin song on the album – but if I want to listen to something like that, I’ll listen to an artist who excels in that genre… The 2 most listenable songs for me were “Tomorrow Comes Today” & “Dracula” – though neither of them are anything to write home about… The musical core for “M1 A1” sounded pretty much like U2’s “Zoo Station” – only not nearly as interesting, and “Man Research” MAY indeed be the worst freakin’ song that I’ve ever heard… Seriously – it’s an absolute abomination… I continue to be amazed by how l lame the albums released in the 2000’s have been so far on the 1,001 list… So far, maybe 1 out of 10 of the 2000’s albums have been decent – but what has been held up as an example of musical excellence from the 2000’s, has been shocking to say the least… A solid 1 in my book, and I find it completely mindboggling, that there are folks who think this album is a 4 or 5…

Gorillaz was one of those bands that was everywhere when it came out, and I fucking hated it. I thought the half-anime look was stupid, I thought their music was piddle for idiots who didn't have distinctive taste, I thought the whole vibe surrounding them sucked. I also thought it was funny that Noel Gallagher said he hopes Damon Albarn gets AIDS. I still think that's funny. I still think Gorillaz is an insult to decent music and its popularity a good indication of just how retarded far too many people are. I still have no interest in this whatsoever and I'm gonna struggle to get through the whole thing. 1/5.

I find it doesn't achieve the same effect on me that this album used to have in its day, but it's still a great and innovative album nevertheless. It literally took me years to be able to get the klezmer inspired Clint Eastwood tune out of my head, and it's not like there is a shortage of breakthroughs in this album otherwise: M1 A1 is an all time favourite I'd gladly point a finger at.

The next two Gorillaz albums are better, but I guess this one's included for cultural significance. When I first heard it I remember being surprised by how many tracks seemed more like sonic experiments than fully formed songs, and I think that's true of the band as a whole at this point: an interesting experiment that would become more well-realised over time. The eclecticism was there from the start, though; I love 5/4, Tomorrow Comes Today & Slow Country for very different reasons. And I reckon Clint Eastwood remains their 'definitive' track - it still sounds fresh today. A fun, quirky listen: 3.5 stars.

Rock Recipes, Installment Two: “Ape Juice” Ingredients: -One part Deltron 3030 -One part Beck -One part leftover animations picked up from the UPA cutting room floor -16 oz. room temperature tap water -3 oz. Gran Marnier -3 oz. Sambuca Instructions: -Combine ingredients into a large glass pitcher. -Stir gently, while mindlessly staring out your kitchen window, for 30 minutes. -Pour contents of pitcher down your sink drain -Open your streaming platform of choice -Search for Deltron 3030 -Select their 2000 album, “Deltron 3030” -Enjoy.

This was always going to be a 5. Always. Gorillaz was so... out there. Just so out there when this album dropped. "Clint Eastwood" blew my mind with its genre bending when I first heard it. I still get a tingle every time I hear that hi-hat hit. And it's not the only banger on this album. In fact, most of the album slaps. I can't listen just once. Gorillaz always gets an instant repeat.

Clint Eastwood is an absolute belter of a song. Gorillaz are an all time fav for me. They were so good live!!

<3

Vaguely interesting in places but for the most part horrific. Every track a slog to get through. The concept always sounded a bit wanky. At least I now know the music itself is no better. Prime cut: Double Bass

one of my favorite albums of all time, can't believe this got cut from the list and not replaced with another gorillaz album

Love this album, real head bopper and brings me to a happy place

Classic, brings me back to 6th grade. A complete masterpiece with unassuming twists and turns and a funky, yet storybook like sound.

Album of my childhood. The beat to 19-2000 will never cease to bring up nice memories of summer, and especially FIFA games. Singing (and rapping) parts of Clint Eastwood is an essential part of every get-together with my friends. Sound of Re-hash, when starting the vinyl puts me into a great humour straight away. This is one of those rare fully positive albums (melody, not necessarily the lyrics), that I really love. Definitely 5/5, only Demon Days would be rated higher in my humble opinion.

A reminder both of how good Clint Eastwood is and how many other great song are on this album that got overlooked. Tomorrow comes today, sound check, so good

As someone who had been a fan of both Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett for nearly a decade when this came out, I knew I would be and instant fan. I honestly thought it would be an experimental noise fest like the Blur remix album. I was wron, this was an instant classic and a soundtrack that lifted me up during some pretty rubbish times.

very good album, didnt love my first listen but it’s really grown on me. feels oddly similar to the avalanches

What a debut! Gorillas bring everything into this. A decade defining single, catchy choruses everywhere and solid production. Damon Albarn has always had talent but being able to mask himself behind Jamie Hewletts animation elevated him, obviously!

This is quite far from my taste, but somehow one of my favourite band and this album is a masterpiece. In my opinion the most exciting song is Double Bass, which is quite unexpected.

My dad gifted me this album after accidentally buying it for himself (he got them confused with the The Avalanches). Great album with far more big recognisable tunes than I remembered. Easy ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

yes let’s fucking GO 4.8

I knew of Gorillaz but hadn’t listened to much of their material. Some interesting stuff here, I enjoyed 5/4, Clint Eastwood one of their biggest.. can’t say that it’s been one of my favorite albums from the project but I would listen again. 3.5/5

### In-Depth Review of "Gorillaz" by Gorillaz The debut album by the virtual band Gorillaz, released in 2001, stands as a unique and influential work in the music industry. This innovative project, created by musician Damon Albarn and artist Jamie Hewlett, blends various musical styles and genres, leading to a distinctive and memorable auditory experience. Here, we delve into the album’s lyrics, music, production, themes, and influence, while also weighing its pros and cons. #### Lyrics The lyrics in "Gorillaz" often juxtapose whimsical and dark themes, reflecting a balance between playful storytelling and serious undertones. Tracks like "Clint Eastwood" and "Tomorrow Comes Today" showcase this duality effectively. "Clint Eastwood" features lines like "I ain't happy, I'm feeling glad, I got sunshine in a bag," which present a paradoxical mixture of optimism and melancholy. This lyricism reflects the human condition, capturing both light and dark sides. The album also explores themes of disillusionment and societal critique. In "Man Research (Clapper)," the lyrics address the absurdity of consumer culture with lines like "They thought I was a spaceman, diggin' in the moonlight." Such lines indicate a critique of how society places value on materialism and surface-level success. However, some lyrics can feel abstract and esoteric, potentially alienating listeners who prefer straightforward narratives. This abstraction, while artistically intriguing, might not resonate with all audiences. #### Music Musically, "Gorillaz" is a melting pot of genres, including alternative rock, hip-hop, dub, and electronica. This eclectic mix is one of the album's strongest points. Tracks like "19-2000" and "Rock the House" exhibit the band’s ability to blend catchy melodies with unconventional sounds. "Clint Eastwood" stands out with its fusion of hip-hop beats and reggae influences, underpinned by Del the Funky Homosapien's rap verses. This track exemplifies the band’s genre-bending approach, making it accessible yet innovative. "Tomorrow Comes Today" introduces a melancholic atmosphere with its dub influences and haunting melodies. The use of traditional and electronic instruments creates a soundscape that is both nostalgic and futuristic. However, this diversity can sometimes lead to a lack of cohesion. The album feels like a collection of disparate sounds rather than a unified whole, which might be jarring for listeners seeking a more consistent sonic experience. #### Production The production quality of "Gorillaz" is a testament to Damon Albarn’s versatility and ingenuity. The album’s sound is meticulously crafted, with layers of instrumentation and effects that create a rich, immersive experience. The use of sampling, live instruments, and electronic elements is balanced expertly. The production shines on tracks like "Clint Eastwood," where the mix of live bass, drum machines, and sampled sounds creates a dynamic and engaging listening experience. The clarity and depth of the production allow each element to stand out while contributing to the overall texture. However, the experimental nature of the production can sometimes result in uneven quality. Certain tracks might feel overproduced, with too many competing elements that obscure the core musical ideas. This issue is evident in "Man Research (Clapper)," where the complexity of sounds can overwhelm the listener. #### Themes "Gorillaz" delves into themes of modern life, alienation, and the interplay between technology and humanity. The album reflects a world where digital and real-life experiences are increasingly intertwined. "5/4" addresses themes of media consumption and its impact on society. The repetitive lines "She made me kill myself" hint at the destructive influence of media on self-perception and behavior. This theme of media critique recurs throughout the album, suggesting a skepticism towards mass communication and its effects. Environmental concerns are also touched upon in "Sound Check (Gravity)." The lyrics "Gravity on me never let me down gently" metaphorically speak to the relentless pressure of modern life and the environmental degradation caused by human activity. The virtual nature of the band itself is a commentary on the digital age, where virtual personas can have a significant impact on reality. This meta-theme adds a layer of complexity to the album, inviting listeners to consider the implications of living in a mediated world. #### Influence The influence of "Gorillaz" on the music industry is profound. It paved the way for virtual bands and projects that leverage multimedia for storytelling. The album’s success demonstrated that blending diverse genres could lead to commercial and critical acclaim. The use of animation and virtual personas in music videos and live performances was groundbreaking. It allowed for a unique form of artistic expression that transcended traditional music boundaries. This approach influenced subsequent artists and bands to experiment with multimedia and non-traditional forms of presentation. Moreover, the album’s eclectic style encouraged a more open-minded approach to genre blending in popular music. It showed that mainstream success could be achieved without adhering to conventional genre classifications, inspiring artists to explore and integrate diverse musical influences. #### Pros 1. **Innovative Blend of Genres**: The album’s fusion of rock, hip-hop, dub, and electronica offers a refreshing and unique listening experience. 2. **High Production Quality**: Meticulous production and sound design create an immersive and dynamic auditory landscape. 3. **Thought-Provoking Themes**: Lyrics explore relevant themes such as media influence, environmental concerns, and the impact of technology on society. 4. **Cultural Impact**: Pioneered the concept of virtual bands and multimedia integration in music, influencing future artists and projects. 5. **Memorable Tracks**: Songs like "Clint Eastwood" and "19-2000" stand out for their catchy hooks and innovative sound. #### Cons 1. **Lack of Cohesion**: The eclectic mix of genres and styles can lead to a disjointed listening experience. 2. **Abstract Lyrics**: Some lyrics are overly abstract and may alienate listeners who prefer more straightforward storytelling. 3. **Overproduction**: Certain tracks suffer from an overabundance of competing sounds, which can obscure the musical ideas. 4. **Inconsistent Quality**: The experimental nature of the album results in varying quality across tracks, with some songs feeling less polished than others. ### Conclusion "Gorillaz" by Gorillaz is a seminal album that challenged the conventions of the music industry. Its innovative blend of genres, high production quality, and exploration of contemporary themes set it apart as a groundbreaking work. While the lack of cohesion and abstract lyrics may be drawbacks for some listeners, the album’s impact and influence cannot be overstated. It opened new avenues for artistic expression and encouraged a more inclusive and experimental approach to music-making. "Gorillaz" remains a vital and influential album, reflecting the complexities and contradictions of modern life through its unique virtual lens.

Man, this album is just as cool today as it was when it debuted over 20 (!!!) years ago. It's easy to forget that it was so long ago because megahit Clint Eastwood STILL gets played on every alt-rock station as if it were released yesterday. As a teenager at the time when this came out, they are the first "virtual band" that I can remember taking seriously. These guys knew themselves, they knew they wanted to do something different, and they knew how they wanted to do it from the beginning of their career; with their debut album, they were not only already setting a foundation for their own signature sound, but also an eclectic alternative/trip hop/lo-fi sound that many other band would embrace in the new millennium and attempt to make their own. Speaking of eclectic, this album is all over the place, but in a good way. They don't limit themselves to any specific sound or genre from track to track, and any given one track is likely to have a mishmash of genres and musical stylings. And yet, everything they do on this album sounds intentional, cohesive, and cleanly executed. All these years later, it was fun to reexamine this album, find a new appreciation for it, and find that it has really stood the test of time.

Almost there, but ultimately unsatisfying. Like a single coat of cheap paint in a really great color on a dry wall. Also, their art inexplicably gives me the heebie jeebies.

I feel bad giving this a 3 since it’s so well produced, but alas. What massive attack wishes they sound like.

Day 27 - June 28, 2024 I have no idea why this album is classified as rock lmao. Not my cup of tea, but it had catchy songs. 3/5

No. 210/1001 Re-Hash 3/5 5/4 3/5 Tomorrow Comes Today 4/5 New Genius 3/5 Clint Eastwood 4/5 Man Research 3/5 Punk 3/5 Sound Check 3/5 Double Bass 2/5 Rock the House 3/5 19-2000 2/5 Latin Simone 3/5 Star Shine 2/5 Slow Country 4/5 M1 A1 2/5 Average: 2,93 Album didn't really work for me.

I like maybe two total songs made by them, one of which was on the album (Clint Eastwood). Otherwise I don't get the appeal of their music. Sure, they have a unique sound and they use cartoon characters to represent themselves but outside of that... this was just... meh? 6/10.

Nice little album to turn on and chill to.

Most of it was nonsense and noise, but there was a song or two that were tolerable

Um. This isn't a bad record, there are interesting things here and there, and it has some elements that are musically cool. That said, it makes me think of a quote from a friend of mine -- "the Black Eyed Peas are the sort of musical act you think about creating with your friends when you are nine" -- Gorillaz are basically that sort of thing, somewhat updated, less dance oriented, more of a trip hop sort of feel in places. I don't understand why this album is on this list and Digable Planets "Refutation" isn't -- hell, I'd take Beastie Boys "Check Your Head" or "Hello Nasty" over this, even with several BB albums on the list already. (I discovered later that this seems to have been removed from more recent editions of the list LOL)

If Screamdelica had been better, it would have sounded like this, which is still only okay.

I hate this album. This isn't coming from any bias, as I have never listened to it before, and I actually like a few Gorillaz songs - but this album is just absolute dogshit. It's inattentive, vapid, uncreative, boring, and honestly painful to listen to. I had to fight the urge to turn it off half way through. Fuck this album.

2001 - 64 mins. Clint Eastwood and 19-2000 are the hits. First few were ok, clint and 19-2000 weren't as good as I remembered. Didn't like falsetto, couple cringe songs. Towards the end 4 skips in a row. 1.5/5

There is an eerie darkness that pervades the entirety of the album full of nearly unskippable offerings. With this initial album, the Gorillaz were still characters that can easily be heard throughout the album as if they were real. Del the Funky Homosapien offers all of the rap on the album, as supposed to the following albums which utilize many guests. Here everything sits as a single offering album, one that after all these years hasn’t really aged and has remained relevant and cool.

Certified Classic. Demon Days was my first album i ever bought but this was is definitely equal in terms of quality/creativity. Lots of great songs and weird blends of alt rock, hip hop and electronics all over this thing.

Truly spectacular mushroom hunting album

Excellent reveal from a now iconic band. Good combination of electronic and Damon Albarns rock roots. You could argue that it was a huge influence on the electro alt music of the 2000s. Great features from Del the funky Homosapien. Likes: Clint Eastwood, 19-2000, Rock the House, Tomorrow Comes Today Dislikes: None

I love this album. It's one of the first album's I ever bought and has such a grimey vibe that suits a debut animated band. It is full of atmosphere and just a taste of what is to come. It helps that it is a little nefarious and almost Gothic in its approach to some things as that is very much my jam.

Well, my review didn't end up getting saved which is a bummer. Basically this album was super rad. The beats were really cool and there was some nice variety. It was the perfect album to get into the zone to because it was just meditative and chill enough but also it was interesting enough that I could just really groove to it.

THIS ALBUM RIPS. I love how experimental this is and how it just works. The fusion of so many cool sounds under the guise of a "virtual band." Its alt rock, dub, ska, hip hop, rock, punk, new wave, krautrock, electronic. But it's all so tight and cohesive. The whole album flows so perfectly and really nothing ever feels out of place. Its truly a "music producers" record. Its basically an hour of showing music producer porn and showing off, but it totally works. Every song is crafted perfectly to fit the vibe and story of the record, but each song is totally unique and would stand on its own. Which I think is kind of rare for an album like this. I also love that there really isn't / wasn't anything like this when it came out. Its really unique.

Lots of people pioneered this sound on the cusp of the new century, a blend of pop and hip-hop and cartoonery. What’s surprising here is how fun and funky and fresh it still sounds!

Maybe I'm nostalgia baited, but the album is great! Love what they were cooking.

Love this album, love Gorillaz. Clint Eastwood is a BANGER

I like this album

it's Gorillaz, it's good.

I have heard this like 10 times at this point- for me it’s great

Solid Album has some hits on it.

Always feels like cheating when I get an album I already love. What a joy to listen through again. Absolutely love several tracks: Clint Eastwood, Rock the House, Latine Simone, Slow Country, 19-2000. Can't forget the next tier: Re-Hash, Tomorrow Comes Today, New Genius, Man Research, 5/4. Yeah turns out this album absolutely rocks, I could listen to it any day, and for that.. it gets the rare 5 star. 4.7/5

Very good. Enjoyed finically getting around to listening to it in full

This is #day85 of my #1001albumsyoumusthearbeforeyoudie challenge, and unlike Blur, which funnily enough, I got just yesterday, Gorillaz holds a special place in my teenage years. I was 15 when Demon Days came out, and tracks like “Dare”, “Dirty Harry”, and “Feel Good Inc.” were all over the radio and TV... Although I’ve never listened to the debut album straight through (same as the sophomore up until last year, I believe), I’m familiar with “Clint Eastwood”, of course. Maybe a couple of other tunes as well. Truth be told, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the album flows; it’s an enjoyable laid-back listen packed with dub, hip-hop, and trip-hop hooks. The project is truly one of a kind—there's been nothing quite like it before or since. I mean... virtual band in 2001, man. Yes, this is the one to be checked out before you die. Because this is where it all starts. So, it's a 5 out of 5. Looking forward to #day 86.

Came at the absolute right time in my youth so left an impression. M1 A1 is like tattoed in my brain at this point

I love this album. So fun, so unique. Fantastic from top to bottom.

It’s a 4 but nostalgia and remembering a couple old bangers off here boosts it up to a 5.

su genialidad radica no solo en lo musical y compositivo, sino tambien en su originalidad

Very cool concept and overall great album. This was the first album I ever owned so I may be biased but I love the blend of alternative and hip hop influences. Favorite songs were: 2. 5/4 11. 19-2000 15. M1 A1 10/10

I love the Gorillaz but have never listened to this album start to finish. I lived in England when Demon Days swept the nation. I remember being obsessed with the album art. Damon Albarn came into this project with very well formed idea. The entire Gorillaz sound is on display on this debut record. "Tomorrow Comes Today" has the melancholy instrumentals / vocals that remain central to their future projects. "Clint Eastwood" which showcases the other side of the Gorillaz signature sound - a Dan The Automator beat with Del rapping on it. I believe they got connected for this project because Dan was working on Deltron 3030 and Gorillaz at the same time. Del's voice and flow is iconic and is an irreplaceable part of the Gorillaz for me. "Punk" is the first song that brings me into the 'Gorillaz Universe' a little. It really does sound like a synthesized attempt at a punk song made by the characters. "Rock The House" and "19-2000" are my two favorite songs on the album. I've listened to them so much. They are both so unique and quintessentially Gorillaz. Del continues to spit and the beats are really fun. No other band has me moving my whole body as squeaky recorder noises come in under the vocals. "M1 A1" feels like I'm listening to Dark Side of the Moon. Until it doesn't. "Left Hand Suzuki Mode" sounds like I'm listening to The Pogues or a similar band combined with Japanese elements. I like it! This album is amazing. It isn't just the music either, the entire project is cool. The art direction, the band members, and the music videos are all novel and engaging. If it was just the music alone I'd likely give it an eight. There's so many great songs but also some filler. The scope of the entire project elevates it a little higher, so I'll give it a nine. 9/10

Awesome album; Gorillaz has a bunch of great songs I hadn't heard!

Here were go. Not their best, but still one of the best of all time.

Great album, chaotic beauty

It was always going to be a 5/5 from me.

Some of the songs felt extremely long, but I am EXTREMELY down for the fake band concept and there’s some major bangers in there

I’m always a happy human when listening to Gorillaz. I’ll admit that it has been a very long time since I listened to their debut from front to back, as I’ve been loving their newer stuff quite a lot. Let’s go back to the origin today! I think you’d be forgiven for not realising this to be the same band if you’d only heard Cracker Island. This record is much tripper than the newer stuff. I don’t think that is a good or bad thing, just notably different. I remember being a teen and playing a flash game that had 19-2000 as the soundtrack and falling in love instantaneously. 5/4 also deserves a shoutout here. Gorillaz introduced me to weird time signatures long before I actually realised it.

own

this went double platinum multiple times for me at various points in life

4 Sterne, aber da es mein erstes Album war wird es für mich immer besonders sein, von daher 5 Sterne.

So electic and bringing good music together. A whole journey

Fuck yea gorillaz, prob my favorite band tbh. but really only know of their hits. Never listened to this all the way through. Tomorrow Comes Today New Genius (Brother) Clint Eastwood is a Certified banger, there is no argument and if you don't like this song, I don't like you Man Research (Clapper) Sound Check (Gravity) !!!!! ok Rock the House is sick except fuck that recorder in the background lmfao 19-2000 Get the cool shoeshine motherfuckers!!!!! certified bop.... or rather a day doo de bop!!! Slow Country !!!!!!!!!!!! This album was already a 4/5 but holy shit I don't think there is a single dud here?! no wonder this was their breakout , theres so many bops

I have loved this record since the first time I heard it when it originally came out. Masterpiece.

This is one of my desert island albums.

I haven't listened to this in a while, but used to play it a lot in the past. It's a great album, very varied, with a bit of stealth Deltron 3030 action. Never cared too much for Gorillaz lore, but it stands on its own without the gimmicks. 4.5 stars, but I'll round it up.

I love the Gorillaz. This isn't even an album I've heard all of before, I normally go to Demon Days. But this was incredible top to bottom. They've always fused sounds that shouldn't work and it just does. There are so many great tracks here that caught my attention from whatever I was doing. Of the songs I didn't really know (sorry Clint Eastwood), I was floored by 5/4 and Double Bass. But this album flaunts electronica, raegae, latin, R&B, and Brit pop as it bobs and weaves through it's many genres. Awesome debut by an awesome band.

As a debut album, it shows incredible versatility in the sound that can be made and elevate the experience on a song. To be honest I only know a few songs off of their discography, but if this is what they have to offer in every album then I'll make sure to check out their other stuff

Hadn't listened to this in ages. My god, I'd forgotten how seemingly flawlessly it combines elements of genres I don't particularly love into one really fucking tight, grooving album that just makes your feet move and your head nod rhythmically.

Why did this get removed from the list? I'll never forgive the British.

O álbum de estreia do Gorillaz carrega o espírito da época em que foi lançado. O novo milênio, começo da difusão da internet, ápice da MTV e produção de videoclipes. É o cenário que torna possível a criação de uma banda de personagens virtuais com seu próprio universo. Como não poderiam se apresentar de outra forma que não a virtual / digital, o esforço colocado na estética e produção dos videoclipes, com ambientação elaborada e personagens caricatos, foi fundamental para criar no imaginário do público que essa banda realmente existe. A primeira música que ouvi do Gorillaz foi "19-2000", é uma das que mais gosto e tenho até hoje o clipe gravado na minha cabeça. A letra da musica é literalmente sobre a troca de milênios, não tem como deixar mais claro que eles representam o espírito da época que isso. Os criadores da banda ainda falam que na época, uma coisa que motivou a criação de uma banda virtual foi a difusão de Boys Band. Segundo eles a ideia era "já que as Boys Band são algo artificial, porque não fazemos algo artificial também mas de uma forma interessante?" A música de samples e super experimental carrega alguma coisa meio futurista na essência também e fugia - muito - do que estava em alta no momento. Parando pra reouvir o álbum agora acho impressionante como o Gorillaz ficou em alta junto ao que o pop que estourado na época. Pra mim soma-se à tudo isso o anonimato e ~mistério~ de quem eram as pessoas por trás da banda. Pode ser porque eu era uma criança meio tapada ou porque a internet não estava suficientemente consolidada ainda (pelo menos no Brasil, não sei o restante do mundo), então não era tão simples pesquisar e descobrir rapidamente que trata-se de uma projeto do vocalista do blur. Muita música boa, com muita experimentação e muita produção. Enfim, muita coisa boa num álbum só.

Bands like "Gorillaz" and "Kasabian" are what I like to call "Cockney Rock". Please note that this is coming from a "Texan". In other words somebody who knows nothing about the very distinguishable difference of the many different accents from the UK. I use term, "Cockney Rock" to describe bands that emphasize there accents whilst singing there songs. Which by the way, I really appreciate. This album like thier others always come with fun surprises around every corner. Like for instance thier spanish song that appears around late to mid-album. All this to say...I really enjoy my time listening to it.

Sublime as always

Cool to know

Just a stellar collage of various genres including some of the best triphop this side of Massive Attack. Very easy 5.

I haven’t listened to this album all the way through in a number of years, but it is just as good as I remember it. I’m glad it came onto my list when it did because it’s such a killer summer vibes album. The blend of Albarn’s previous rock work and hip hop just goes so well together. I was delighted to hear this album again and many of the songs will go into rotation for my other listening. Would absolutely listen again.

Flawless, one of my all time favorites. It's not that I don't enjoy their newer stuff too, but Damon Albarn being the "main act" on the album makes this peak Gorillaz to me.

Another album I've heard a million times. Really cool and unique. Quirky in a way, but also fresh and cool at the same time. Must say I am really impressed with Damon Albarn. Blur doesn't exactly sound remotely close to this, yet he manages to deliver even better in a completely different context. While (what felt like) hugely popular when it came out, I don't think this is the best Gorillaz album, but it still really good. There are some cool tracks on this record, like 'Tomorrow Comes Today', '19-2000', 'Rock The House', and of course Gorillaz's most famous song: 'Clint Eastwood'. Then there are songs that conceptually tie the record together, but aren't hits per-se, like 'New Genius (Brother)' and 'Sound Check (Gravity)'. A handful of songs could've been skipped, like 'Punk', 'Slow Country', 'M1 A1' to name a few. Before writing the review I was determined on a strong 4, but after skimming through it again I realize that there aren't as many weak songs as I thought, so I will have to put it on a weak 5 instead. I am really a Gorillaz fan though, so probably a bit biased.

Huge vibies

jeep

Surprisingly good, divers and interesting music

# Playlist track - 19-2000 # Notes - Still sounds amazing! Definitely influenced by how I felt *back then* when I listened to "Clint Eastwood" for the first time on MTV. - The album is pretty great all around, with the exception of "M1 A1", which is kind of boring. - Very iconic album and definitely worth your time to listen a couple of times, and watch the videos too!

So much fun. Far ahead of its time.

This was great! Aside from a few tracks that are just eh, this album has amazing tracks (Tomorrow Comes Today, Clint Eastwood, 19-2000, etc.) Great album.

Clint Eastwood is one of my favourite songs from the early 2000s, all the other singles are class, and even the really random songs (like Latin Simone and Sound Check) capture a mood or a feeling. Another album I own on CD, although I think my daughter has pinched it - but maybe it is the mark of genious [sic] that it still feels contemporary over 23 years later.

One of my favorite albums of all time

This is a bit sentimental as I listened to this album a lot when it came out, but of course it's a great record. It's very diverse, it shows all Albarn is capable of, it has 5 stars guests, it can go from son cubano to trip hop to abrasive rock. It's a mess, but a beautiful one. This introduced me to trip hop back in the day and seriously broaden my musical horizon.