GORILLAZ
The Mountain (Kong)
Following two middling, structurally forced albums, The Mountain offers a refreshing rebirth for Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett’s Gorillaz, reminiscent of their Plastic Beach and Demon Days heights. The harmony is perhaps attributable to the reconciliation of chemistry between Albarn and Hewlett, who both suffered family bereavement before visiting India to record the album, and cultural references to Hinduism, Samsara, reincarnation and the afterlife can be found in the songs and Hewlett’s sleeve art.
It adds up to an enriching perspective on death, reflected in The Mountain’s music: hypnotic, Indian-inspired instrumentals and hopeful lyricism centred on Hindu beliefs transport the listener physically and emotionally. The sound of Gorillaz has come full circle with The Mountain, the sound of a band (figuratively) reborn – while staying true to themselves, experimenting and delivering something culturally profound.
words AMY FORD
