Gorillaz have released their latest single, "The Manifesto." The new track features Argentine rapper Trueno and a posthumous freestyle from Proof, a member of the group D12. This song is part of Gorillaz's upcoming album, titled The Mountain.
Key Takeaways
- Gorillaz launched new single "The Manifesto."
- The song features Argentine rapper Trueno.
- It includes a posthumous verse from D12 member Proof.
- "The Manifesto" is from the new album, The Mountain.
- Diverse international musicians contributed to the track.
New Single Features Diverse Collaborators
"The Manifesto" brings together a wide range of musical talents. Beyond Trueno and Proof, the track features sarod players Amaan Ali Bangash and Ayaan Ali Bangash. The Jea Band Jaipur, an Indian wedding band with a long history, also contributes to the sound. Bansuri player Ajay Prasanna and the Vijayaa Shanker-led Mountain Choir are also part of the collaboration.
This mix of artists highlights Gorillaz's consistent approach to global musical partnerships. The band is known for integrating various styles and cultures into their sound. This track continues that tradition by bringing together performers from different musical backgrounds and regions.
Fact: Gorillaz's Fictional Universe
Gorillaz is a virtual band created in 1998 by musician Damon Albarn and artist Jamie Hewlett. The band consists of four animated members: 2-D, Murdoc Niccals, Noodle, and Russell Hobbs. Their narrative and visual style are central to their artistic identity.
Russell Hobbs Comments on the New Track
Russell Hobbs, the fictional drummer for Gorillaz, provided a statement regarding "The Manifesto." In a press release, Hobbs described the song as a deep musical experience. His comments often reflect the thematic elements of the band's work.
"As space dust we are here forever and that’s a mighty long time. This is a musical meditation infused with light. A journey of the soul, with beats…"
— Russell Hobbs, Gorillaz's fictional drummer
This quote suggests a philosophical and expansive theme for the song. It aligns with the band's history of creating music that explores broader concepts. The idea of a "journey of the soul" fits into their often imaginative and narrative-driven projects.
Details on the Upcoming Album The Mountain
"The Manifesto" is not the first song released from The Mountain. Gorillaz introduced the album with the track "Happy Dictator," which featured the band Sparks. The upcoming album is a follow-up to their previous release, Cracker Island.
Album Context: Cracker Island
Released in 2023, Cracker Island was Gorillaz's eighth studio album. It featured collaborations with artists such as Thundercat, Stevie Nicks, Adeleye Omotayo, Bad Bunny, and Tame Impala. The album received positive reviews and performed well commercially, reaching number one on the UK Albums Chart.
The Mountain is set to feature a significant number of other notable artists. The confirmed list includes Idles, Kara Jackson, Yasiin Bey (also known as Mos Def), Omar Souleyman, and Anoushka Shankar. Additionally, Black Thought is featured, along with posthumous contributions from Tony Allen and Mark E. Smith. This extensive list of collaborators indicates a diverse sound for the new album.
- Confirmed Artists for The Mountain:
- Trueno
- Proof (posthumous)
- Sparks ("Happy Dictator")
- Idles
- Kara Jackson
- Yasiin Bey
- Omar Souleyman
- Anoushka Shankar
- Black Thought
- Tony Allen (posthumous)
- Mark E. Smith (posthumous)
The inclusion of posthumous verses from artists like Proof, Tony Allen, and Mark E. Smith adds a unique dimension to the album. It allows for new collaborations that bridge different eras and styles of music. This approach is a hallmark of Gorillaz's creative process.
The Legacy of Proof and D12
Proof, whose real name was DeShaun Dupree Holton, was a prominent American rapper from Detroit, Michigan. He was a close friend of Eminem and a founding member of the hip-hop group D12. Proof was known for his freestyle skills and energetic performances.
His early recordings, like the one used in "The Manifesto," offer a glimpse into his foundational work as an artist. Proof passed away in 2006. His appearance on this new Gorillaz track serves as a tribute to his lasting impact on hip-hop music. It also introduces his talent to a new generation of listeners.
Proof's Career Highlights
Proof released his debut solo album, Searching for Jerry Garcia, in 2005. He was also a battle rapper and hosted events like the 8 Mile rap battles. His contributions to D12 included several successful albums and singles, solidifying his place in the rap scene.
The collaboration with Trueno also highlights current global talent. Trueno is an Argentine rapper and freestyler. He has gained significant recognition in the Latin American music scene. His presence on "The Manifesto" connects Gorillaz with contemporary international hip-hop. This blend of established and emerging artists is characteristic of Gorillaz's projects.
Gorillaz's Ongoing Influence in Music
Gorillaz have maintained a strong presence in the music industry for over two decades. Their innovative use of animation, diverse collaborations, and genre-bending music has earned them critical acclaim and a dedicated global fanbase. Each new album release is typically met with anticipation due to their unique artistic vision.
The band's ability to evolve while staying true to their core identity is a key factor in their longevity. They consistently explore new sounds and work with a wide array of artists, keeping their music fresh and relevant. The Mountain appears to continue this trend, promising another unique musical experience for listeners.
The new single "The Manifesto" acts as a preview of the album's scope and ambition. It combines different musical traditions and features significant guest artists. This strategy aims to engage both long-time fans and new audiences. The blend of instrumentalists and vocalists from various backgrounds suggests a rich and complex sound for the full album.
Fans can expect more details about The Mountain, including its official release date, in the coming weeks. The album's diverse lineup confirms Gorillaz's ongoing commitment to pushing creative boundaries in popular music.