After a seven-year hiatus, Gorillaz burst back onto the scene with "Humanz," a vibrant and eclectic album that showcases the band's signature blend of genres and collaborations. Released on April 28, 2017, this fifth studio album is a testament to the band's enduring creativity and their ability to push musical boundaries. With a runtime of just over an hour, "Humanz" is packed with 26 tracks that seamlessly blend hip-hop, electronic, rock, and pop, creating a sonic landscape that is as diverse as it is engaging.
The album features an impressive roster of guest artists, including Vince Staples, Danny Brown, Kelela, Popcaan, De La Soul, Grace Jones, and many more. Each collaboration adds a unique flavor to the album, making "Humanz" a rich tapestry of sounds and styles. The album opens with "Intro: I Switched My Robot Off," setting the stage for a journey through Gorillaz's distinctive world. Standout tracks like "Saturnz Barz" featuring Popcaan, "Charger" with Grace Jones, and "Hallelujah Money" featuring Benjamin Clementine highlight the album's versatility and depth.
"Humanz" is not just an album; it's an experience. The interludes scattered throughout the album, such as "The Non-Conformist Oath" and "Elevator Going Up," add a narrative layer that ties the tracks together, creating a cohesive and immersive listening experience. The album's production is top-notch, with each track meticulously crafted to showcase the best of Gorillaz's musical prowess.
For fans of Gorillaz, "Humanz" is a welcome return to the band's signature sound, while also offering new and exciting directions. The album's release was accompanied by a special Record Store Day Black Friday 2017 exclusive, featuring a double picture disc with each Gorillaz member on a side, limited to 4900 copies. This limited edition adds a collectible dimension to an already impressive album.
"Humanz" is a celebration of Gorillaz's unique vision and their ability to bring together a diverse range of artists to create something truly special. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Gorillaz's music, "Humanz" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that showcases the best of what the band has to offer.
This 2LP set was released in 2017.
