: To supplement the main albums, Gorillaz released two key compilations in the 2000s that are often counted as part of their core discography.
A massive two-disc compilation that marked the end of Phase 2. Disc one compiled the excellent B-sides from the Demon Days sessions (such as "Hong Kong" and "Stop the Dams"), while disc two featured heavy-hitting electronic remixes from the likes of DFA and Soulwax.
: A politically charged, hip-hop-infused track featuring a children's choir and rapper Bootie Brown.
The band released six prominent full-length projects in this period, split between studio recordings and collections of rare material: : To supplement the main albums, Gorillaz released
Gorillaz is famous for its guest features. During this decade, they worked with: Snoop Dogg De La Soul Yasiin Bey Rock Royalty: Mark E. Smith (The Fall), Mick Jones Paul Simonon (The Clash). Global Icons: Ibrahim Ferrer (Buena Vista Social Club), Little Dragon
Released in March 2001, the band's self-titled debut album, , introduced the world to their signature hybrid sound. Produced alongside hip-hop visionary Dan the Automator, the album seamlessly fused lo-fi indie rock melodies with trip-hop beats. It was an overnight smash, selling over seven million copies globally and establishing their virtual mythology. 2. G-Sides (2001)
Every track contributed to the extensive lore of the virtual band. Instrumental tracks like "Glitter Freeze" or ambient pieces like "Double Bass" acted as world-building score pieces for the fictional universes of Kong Studios and Plastic Beach. The songs function both as standalone musical tracks and as chapters in an ongoing multimedia story. The Legacy of the First Decade : A politically charged, hip-hop-infused track featuring a
In 2000, the music industry was unprepared for a cartoon band. Created by Blur frontman Damon Albarn and comic artist Jamie Hewlett, Gorillaz subverted the traditional concept of celebrity. Behind the fictional avatars of 2D, Murdoc Niccals, Noodle, and Russel Hobbs lay a brilliant, genre-blurring musical project. Between 2000 and 2010, this project redefined alternative music. Through 6 albums, 14 singles, and 136 songs, Gorillaz crafted a legendary discography that blended hip-hop, dub, rock, electronic, and pop into a cohesive sonic universe. The Studio Albums: The Core Trilogy and Beyond
After a four-year hiatus, Gorillaz returned with their second studio album, Demon Days , released on May 23, 2005. Co-produced by Danger Mouse, the album is a darker, more politically charged concept record that serves as a critique of the post-9/11 world. It became an even bigger success than its predecessor, selling over eight million copies worldwide and reaching number one on the UK Albums Chart. The album's 15 tracks, including the intro, "Last Living Souls," "Kids with Guns," "O Green World," "Dirty Harry," "Feel Good Inc.," "El Mañana," "Every Planet We Reach Is Dead," "November Has Come," "All Alone," "White Light," "Dare," "Fire Coming Out of the Monkey's Head," "Don't Get Lost in Heaven," and the closing title track "Demon Days" , remain some of the most beloved in the Gorillaz catalog.
Which from this era you want to learn more about Smith (The Fall), Mick Jones Paul Simonon (The Clash)
Demon Days (2005)Widely considered the band's masterpiece, Demon Days is a dark, post-9/11 concept album tackling environmental decay, war, and spiritual crisis. Produced by Danger Mouse, the album trades the loose, jam-band feel of the debut for tight, cinematic pop hooks. Backed by the San Fernando Valley Youth Chorus and the London Community Gospel Choir, the album moves from apocalyptic dread to triumphant redemption. It remains a high-water mark for 2000s alternative music.
Polished dark-pop, gospel, funk, and alternative hip-hop. 4. D-Sides (2007)
Credited to Spacemonkeyz versus Gorillaz, this remix album completely reworked the debut album into a heavy, echo-drenched soundscape. It remains the most sonicly unified and overlooked curiosity in their catalogue. 4. Demon Days (2005)