Gorillaz - Song Machine Season One (LP)

Gorillaz's "Song Machine, Season One: Strange Timez" is a vibrant and eclectic project that showcases the virtual band's ability to adapt and innovate within the music industry. Released on October 23, 2020, this album is a testament to Gorillaz's enduring appeal and their knack for collaboration. The project is structured as a series of episodes, each featuring a different guest artist, which adds a dynamic and unpredictable element to the listening experience.

The album opens with the title track "Strange Timez," featuring The Cure's Robert Smith. This collaboration sets the tone for the album, blending Smith's distinctive voice with Gorillaz's signature sound. The track captures the surreal and unsettling atmosphere of the times, a theme that resonates throughout the album. The diversity of guest artists is one of the album's strengths, with each track offering something unique. From the energetic "Aries," featuring Peter Hook and Georgia, to the introspective "The Pink Phantom," with Elton John and 6lack, the album traverses a wide range of musical styles and emotions.

One of the standout tracks is "Aries," which combines Hook's iconic bass lines with a driving beat and Damon Albarn's reflective lyrics. The song is a nod to the post-punk era, yet it feels fresh and contemporary. Another highlight is "Momentary Bliss," featuring British punk band Slaves and rapper slowthai. This track is a high-energy fusion of punk and hip-hop, showcasing Gorillaz's ability to blend genres seamlessly.

"The Pink Phantom" is another notable track, bringing together the legendary Elton John and rising star 6lack. The song is a melancholic ballad that highlights the contrasting vocal styles of its collaborators, creating a hauntingly beautiful piece. Elton John's contribution is particularly poignant, adding a layer of depth and emotion to the track.

"Song Machine, Season One" received positive reviews from critics, who praised its innovative format and the quality of its collaborations. The album was seen as a return to form for Gorillaz, following their previous releases "Humanz" and "The Now Now." Critics appreciated the album's ability to capture the zeitgeist, with its themes of uncertainty and change resonating with listeners during a tumultuous period.

The album's release strategy was also noteworthy. Instead of a traditional album rollout, Gorillaz released each track as an episode in their "Song Machine" series, accompanied by animated music videos. This approach kept fans engaged over several months and highlighted the band's multimedia roots. The visual component of the project, created by Jamie Hewlett, added an extra layer of creativity and storytelling to the music.

While "Song Machine, Season One" did not win any major awards, it was recognized for its innovative approach and strong collaborations. The album's ability to bring together artists from different genres and generations is a testament to Gorillaz's influence and Albarn's vision as a musician and producer.

In terms of cultural significance, the album reflects the collaborative and genre-blending trends in contemporary music. Gorillaz have always been pioneers in this regard, and "Song Machine, Season One" continues this tradition. The project also highlights the importance of adaptability in the music industry, as the band successfully navigated the challenges of releasing music during a global pandemic.

Overall, "Song Machine, Season One: Strange Timez" is a compelling addition to the Gorillaz discography. It captures the essence of the band's innovative spirit and their ability to create music that is both timely and timeless. The album's diverse range of collaborations and its unique release strategy make it a standout project in the band's career, reaffirming Gorillaz's status as one of the most creative and influential acts in modern music.