Gorillaz’ third album has quite rightly been one of the most eagerly awaited albums of the year, and from the moment Snoop Dogg drawls “Welcome to the plastic beach”, you know you’re in for something pretty special. Even by previous standards this is quite a step forward for the animated band, who have produced their most daring piece of work to date. Guest slots by Mos Def, Mark E. Smith and Little Dragon are all excellent, Def in particular, but the man who really steals the show here is Bobby Womack, belting out the chorus to ‘Stylo’ with incredible intensity. Damon Albarn is content to hold back, supply vocals where appropriate, but let this stunning variety of music do the talking – from the dazzling strings in ‘White Flag’ through the airy ‘Empire Ants’ to the powerful march of ‘Glitter Freeze’, which sounds and feels like a protest song. ‘Plastic Beach’ needs several listens to make its incredible impact, as there is so much music here to digest – but once you’ve done that, you’ll be keeping it close to hand for months. One of this year’s essential albums, for sure.
5 Out Of 5
Reviewed By: Ben Hogwood
