Gorillaz - Song Machine Season One (LP) - Neon Orange Vinyl - NM/NM

"Gorillaz' "Song Machine, Season One: Strange Timez" is a groundbreaking project by the virtual band, released in 2020. This album marks a departure from the traditional album format, presenting a series of collaborative singles released episodically as part of the "Song Machine" series. Each track is accompanied by a music video, enhancing the multimedia experience Gorillaz is known for. The project showcases a wide array of musical styles and guest artists, reflecting the band's eclectic and innovative approach to music-making.

The title track, "Strange Timez," featuring Robert Smith of The Cure, sets a compelling tone for the album with its blend of alternative rock and electronic elements. Smith's distinctive vocals, combined with Damon Albarn's, create a haunting atmosphere that captures the surreal and uncertain mood of the times. The track's production, with its pulsating beats and atmospheric synths, underscores Gorillaz's ability to merge different genres into a cohesive sound.

"Aries," featuring Peter Hook of New Order and Georgia, stands out as a nod to the post-punk era, with Hook's signature bassline driving the track. The song's blend of nostalgic instrumentation with contemporary production techniques exemplifies Gorillaz's talent for bridging the gap between past and present musical landscapes.

"Pac-Man," featuring rapper ScHoolboy Q, is a vibrant homage to the classic arcade game, with its catchy chorus and funky beats. The track showcases Gorillaz's ability to infuse their music with playful references and collaborations, creating a sound that is both accessible and artistically rich.

The album's diverse roster of guest artists, including Elton John, 6LACK, St. Vincent, and many others, adds a dynamic layer to the project, with each collaboration bringing a unique flavor to the album. This approach highlights Gorillaz's role as a musical platform where different artists and genres can intersect, creating innovative and unexpected musical moments.

The production of "Song Machine, Season One: Strange Timez" is a testament to Gorillaz's continued evolution as a project. Each track is meticulously crafted, with attention to detail that ensures the album's eclectic mix of styles feels cohesive and unified. The use of animation and visuals in the accompanying music videos adds an extra dimension to the project, blending the band's visual and musical creativity.

"Desolé," featuring Fatoumata Diawara, is a beautifully melancholic track that blends African musical elements with Gorillaz's signature electronic sound. Diawara's soulful vocals, sung in French, add a layer of emotional depth to the album, showcasing Gorillaz's commitment to cultural and musical diversity.

In conclusion, "Song Machine, Season One: Strange Timez" is a bold and innovative project that encapsulates Gorillaz's spirit of collaboration and genre-defying music. The episodic release format and the array of guest artists make the album a vibrant tapestry of contemporary music, reflecting the band's ability to adapt and innovate within the ever-changing musical landscape. This project not only reaffirms Gorillaz's status as pioneers of multimedia musical projects but also offers a fresh and exciting approach to album creation in the digital age.