Gorillaz is taking the world by surprise. And why not? The band – a cartoon quartet originally penned in Europe – has finally arrived in the United States with a 17-track self-titled debut album on the edge of breaking into Billboard’s Top 20. The compilation consists of songs as creative as what would be expected of an animated group. Once you press play and hear the first five seconds of “Re-Hash,” you’re hooked.

            Visually, Gorillaz is composed of blue-haired lead singer 2-D, green-teethed bassist Murdoc, big-boned drummer Russel, and a ten-year-old Asian girl named Noodle on guitar. Behind the animated front, however, is an experienced crew led by producer Dan Nakamura, cartoonist Jamie Hewlett, and songwriter Damon Albarn (Blur lead vocalist). Guest artists on the album include rapper Del tha Funky Homosapien, Cibo Matto’s Miho Hatori, Tina Weymouth of the Taking Heads, and Ibrahim Ferrer - singer from the Buena Vista Social Club.

            Nonetheless, listeners need not worry about who or what is behind the scenes in order to enjoy the band’s music. After all, Gorillaz videos are cartoons, and every concert displays a performance on a large screen featuring the animated characters. Simply stated, their music fits their personalities. It’s real.

            The Gorillaz’ style cannot be labeled. Their first single, “Clint Eastwood,” for example features a perfect balance between hip-hop and rock. Unlike Linkin Park and Limp Bizkit - modern bands that fit in the same genre – the Gorillaz do not stop there. Amidst several pop-electronica tracks is the aptly titled song “Punk,” and further down the album is a funkadelic rap tune entitled “Rock the House.” In addition, there is the soulful “New Genius,” and “Dracula” – an all-around fun song with a reggae undertone. Still, after all that, the Gorillaz go on… from house beats to DJ scratches to borrowed excerpts from Bo Diddley and Muddy Waters.

            And of course, “Gorillaz” is an enhanced CD. How cool could an animated band be, otherwise?

Overall, the Gorillaz have arrived and are definitely here to stay. With beats that resonate and lyrics that stick, members of the group have proved themselves capable of playing all facets of music. Still, there is room for improvement, such as an alteration of the tempo here, or a change in the approach there. With 17 tracks, the sound sometimes got too thick, hence preventing myself from listening to the album in its entirety in only one sitting. Nevertheless, “Gorillaz” is an impressive debut and is worthy of a 4.5.

Artist	Gorillaz
Title	Gorillaz
Label	Virgin Records
Reviewer	Roxanne Reyes
Rating
website	www.gorillaz.com

Contents

Home