Song Machine Project
As you may have heard, Damon Albarn has been back in his studio pressing away at his keyboard to give us the newest of Gorillaz experiences, Song Machine. This new project came to us in an episodic fashion almost purely thought the internet.
This came as a wonderful surprise for fans, such a s myself, who heard rumors that the Gorillaz wouldn’t tour again until 2028. This news was brought to light in 2018 and yet here we are only 2 years later with brand new Gorillaz material.
The past couple of years have been a great time to be a fan. After the seven year hiatus between “Plastic Beach” and “Humans” we have received two separate albums, including “Humans” along with this new Song Machine project.
It’s no secret that “Humanz” was a polarizing album for most fans. At the very least, it was quite different from what long time fans have been used to. However, Song Machine seems to be a return to faith that parallels some of the earlier works of the Gorillaz.
Now don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed “Humanz.” I will put “Stobelite” on repeat and songs like “Let Me Out” and “Ascension” continued to define the Gorillaz narrative of breaking down conventional genre bindings. However, after waiting so long, I have to say I was a little disappointed that the album we got was mostly just an experimental feature album.
This is what Song machine avoids. It still has you guessing as to whats coming next by hitting you with a grungy U.K. rock and hip hop vibe and then switching gears to give you a mellow chill french beat. The features aren’t too heavy and we still get to see plenty of the original band.
So far, five songs have been released on the project respectively titled:
“Momentary Bliss”
“Désolé”
“Aries”
“Friday 13th”
“Pac-Man”
These are some really interesting video essay/documentaries that inspired me on this topic.
What do you think? Did you love “Humenaz?” Did you not?
What was your favorite phase of the Gorillaz? Do you hate the Gorillaz? Why? I’d love to know your thoughts.
