Humanz- Gorillaz’s first album in six years took the media by storm before it was even released. This album is based on pain, joy, and urgency; it’s being compared by the creators themselves as a “party for the end of the world.”  

Since the publishing of The Book of Noodle in October (followed subsequently by the other members’ respective share) Gorillaz has been steadily releasing new content to the public, all leading up to the eventual release of Humanz. In the past month, Gorillaz has provided tour dates, an app, and even announced a TV mini series. However, they have only recently given fans the full lyrical coverage that they’ve been waiting for.

Humanz was worth the wait, as it was absolutely impeccable. This being their first story-wise album release in six years leaves me almost completely satisfied. Notably, the album art’s hauntingly familiar features unnerve me a bit, though compared to their first album, Jamie Hewlett’s art style has progressed in leaps and bounds.

Quite frankly, Gorillaz fans around the world shouldn’t have much to complain about.

The multimedia content released was mildly satisfying, yes, but it couldn’t possibly hold a candle to their new album. Hallelujah Money was a bit disappointing, and the initial Saturnz Barz preview was somewhat of an acquired taste- it’s safe to say when it comes to musical standards, my bar wasn’t too high. Despite my low expectations, however, Gorillaz came back with the force of a train, and absolutely shell shocked the fans who have accessed the album pre-release.

Being the furthest away from their previous art styles, Gorillaz ventures into uncharted territory with their four predominantly released tracks, leading up to the entire album being as eclectic as we hoped. The journey metaphor continues, as by the end of Humanz, Damon Albarn- the voice behind Gorillaz- is proven to be increasingly professional at leaping from genre to genre.

Hewlett claims that the album is much less of a political statement than his partner made it out to be, however, the awaited stigma towards “using a fictional band as a political outlet” has yet to come. In fact, the album pre-sold 16 million copies worldwide and currently shows no sign of halting, since its release.

Aside from the behind the scenes album marketing, there’s a crucial factor; the real make or break of this article: the rest of their music. Admittedly, there are a lot of unfamiliar, featured artists in their songs- which, despite popular belief, is not necessarily bad. It is a chilling, massive cross genre party. The album’s music is sporadic and somewhat chaotic- presumably the message Albarn was intending to portray with both Hewlett’s art and the overall otherworldly vibe. Simply saying that the album was ‘good’ couldn’t possibly do it justice.

With full confidence and overflowing dramatics, I can wholeheartedly say that Humanz was an album worth waiting for.