Gorillaz has unveiled a new track titled "The God of Lying," featuring the British rock band Idles. This release marks the third single from their upcoming album, The Mountain, set to launch on March 20.
The song brings together the distinctive sounds of Gorillaz with the raw energy of Idles. Fans can now listen to the collaboration.
Key Takeaways
- Gorillaz released "The God of Lying" featuring Idles.
- The single is from their album The Mountain, out March 20.
- Damon Albarn and Joe Talbot co-wrote the track.
- The song includes traditional Indian instruments.
A New Collaboration with Idles
Damon Albarn, the creative force behind Gorillaz, co-wrote "The God of Lying" with Idles frontman Joe Talbot. The collaboration was recorded across multiple locations, including London and Devon in England, and Mumbai, India.
The recording process incorporated a blend of Western and Eastern musical elements. Notably, bansuri player Ajay Prasanna and percussionist Viraj Acharya contributed to the track, adding unique sonic textures.
"Can I tell you a secret? Doubt is very tiring but questioning things is really good for you," said 2D, Gorillaz's fictional frontman, in a statement accompanying the release.
This statement offers a glimpse into the thematic undercurrents of the new single, suggesting a focus on introspection and critical thought.
Quick Fact
The bansuri is a side-blown flute originating from ancient India. It is a key instrument in Hindustani classical music.
Anticipation for The Mountain Album
"The God of Lying" follows two previously released singles from The Mountain. These include "The Happy Dictator," which features Sparks, and "The Manifesto," a collaboration with Trueno and the late D12 rapper Proof.
The new album promises a diverse range of artistic partnerships. This approach is consistent with Gorillaz's history of working with a wide array of musicians from different genres and backgrounds.
The album is expected to continue Gorillaz's tradition of blending animation with musical innovation. Their unique visual and auditory style has garnered them a global following over the years.
Gorillaz Background
Gorillaz is a British virtual band created in 1998 by musician Damon Albarn and artist Jamie Hewlett. The band features four animated members: 2D (lead vocals, keyboards), Murdoc Niccals (bass guitar), Noodle (guitar, keyboards), and Russel Hobbs (drums).
Their music spans various genres, including alternative rock, hip hop, electronica, and pop. They are known for their experimental approach and collaborations with numerous guest artists.
The Impact of Collaborations
Gorillaz has built a significant part of its identity on high-profile collaborations. These partnerships often introduce new sounds and perspectives into their music.
Working with Idles, known for their post-punk and hardcore influences, brings a distinct edge to "The God of Lying." This choice reflects Gorillaz's ongoing commitment to exploring diverse musical landscapes.
The integration of traditional Indian instruments, such as the bansuri and various percussion, further highlights the band's global musical scope. This fusion creates a unique soundscape for the new track.
Previous Album Success
The new album, The Mountain, follows 2023's Cracker Island. That album received positive reviews and featured collaborations with artists like Thundercat, Stevie Nicks, Bad Bunny, and Tame Impala.
The success of Cracker Island sets a high bar for The Mountain. Fans and critics are eager to see how the new collaborations will shape the band's sound moving forward.
The diverse roster of guest artists on The Mountain suggests another ambitious project from the virtual band. Each single released so far has offered a different flavor, building anticipation for the full album.
The Creative Process Behind the Music
Damon Albarn's songwriting process often involves working directly with guest artists. This ensures that the collaborations feel organic and authentic.
The recording locations for "The God of Lying" indicate a global approach to music creation. Recording in Mumbai, for example, allowed for direct engagement with Indian musicians and their instruments.
This hands-on method helps Gorillaz maintain its reputation for innovative and boundary-pushing music. The band continually seeks new ways to evolve its sound and storytelling.
Album Release Date
The Mountain is scheduled for release on March 20, 2026. This date is highly anticipated by Gorillaz fans worldwide.
The band's fictional narratives often complement their music. 2D's quote about doubt and questioning aligns with the thoughtful themes often present in Gorillaz's work.
The blend of animation, diverse musical styles, and philosophical undertones continues to make Gorillaz a compelling act in the modern music landscape. "The God of Lying" serves as another example of their unique artistic vision.