Gorillaz, the self-titled debut album, has just celebrated its 25th anniversary.
The band created by musician Damon Albarn and graphic artist Jamie Hewlett. Released March 26, 2001, the album reached the top of music charts worldwide and marked as a genre-breaking release that showcased the virtual band members.
The band’s fictional characters include 2-D, Noodle, Russel Hobbs and Murdoc Niccals, as well as many other fictional characters included throughout the album.
Alongside Damon Albarn’s vocals and music, they included the work of other collaborators. This includes Del the Funky Homosapien, Kid Koala, Miho Hatori and other well-known musicians contributed to the album’s production.
The overall theme of the debut album is critiquing modern pop music, media saturation and celebrity culture. This album includes many different genres within its vast track list. It includes alternative rock, electronic, trip-hop, art pop and hip-hop. The clashing of all these genres created a unique and genre-defying sound.
The full track list includes:
- Re-Hash
- 5/4
- Tomorrow Comes Today
- New Genious (Brother)
- Clint Eastwood
- Man Research (Clapper)
- Punk
- Sound Check (Gravity)
- Double Bass
- Rock the House
- 19-2000
- Latin Simone (¿Qué Pasa Contigo?)
- Starshine
- Slow Country
- M1 A1
The album was a major success, selling more than seven million copies worldwide, driven in part by their most praised single, “Clint Eastwood.” As a result, Gorillaz received awards for best modern rock new artist and best rap/hip-hop new artist.
Gorillaz’ latest album, “The Mountain”, was released Feb. 27, 2026. The album draws inspiration from Damon Albarn’s earlier work, including the band’s debut album. The album inspired by Damon Albarn’s late father written to represent an overall theme explores death, grief and the afterlife.
Compared to Gorillaz’ debut album, “The Mountain” differs in artistic choices, instrumentation and overall inspiration. Since it’s debut, Gorillaz has released nine studio albums alongside numerous singles and remixes.
Damon Albarn has said the band will continue to inspire future generations and blend musical genres. Ultimately, letting the future decide the state of Gorillaz alongside with what adventures will follow the virtual band.