Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett have unveiled The Mountain, the latest Gorillaz album they describe as the project most personal and introspective work yet.
In an interview, the co-creators discussed their collaborative process, the virtual band mythology, and how characters 2-D, Murdoc, Russel, and Noodle have evolved over two decades. The album launches alongside an eight-minute music video and short film titled The Mountain, The Moon Cave and The Sad God.
Albarn and Hewlett reflected on Gorillaz unique position in music, blending animated storytelling with genre-defying soundscapes incorporating hip-hop, rock, electronic, and world music influences.
The release marks another chapter in Gorillaz boundary-pushing career, demonstrating the enduring appeal of their innovative fusion of visual art and music.