Ever wished you could relive Gorillaz’s earliest, most iconic shows? London is getting a treat! The virtual band just kicked off a residency, playing their debut album in full with incredible visuals and rare tracks. What’s next for their legendary performances?
Gorillaz have initiated a captivating London residency, treating fans to an immersive journey through their discography by performing their seminal albums in their entirety, commencing with their self-titled debut to widespread acclaim.
This exclusive engagement comprises four limited-capacity live shows at the prestigious Copper Box Arena. Running until September 3, the residency promises a unique opportunity for attendees to witness the iconic virtual band, led by Damon Albarn, backed by the full Gorillaz live band and stunning visuals crafted by Jamie Hewlett.
The series of concerts is designed to evoke the essence of their formative years, meticulously recreating the visuals and atmosphere of their original live shows from two decades ago. Each performance focuses on a single album, offering a comprehensive and nostalgic experience for long-standing fans and new listeners alike.
The opening night, August 29, saw the band deliver their 2001 debut album, “Gorillaz,” in full. This performance meticulously mirrored their historic first live shows at London’s Scala and La Cigale Paris, where Murdoc, Noodle, Russel, and 2D were brought to life through Hewlett’s distinctive visuals, with Albarn and the live band appearing as silhouettes.
Highlighting the rarity of this event, the debut night featured the live premieres of “Double Bass” and “Ghost Train,” alongside the first performances since 2002 for tracks like “Starshine,” “Slow Country,” “Sound Check (Gravity),” and “Man Research (Clapper).” The band also thrilled the audience with two renditions of “Clint Eastwood,” notably joined on stage by Miho Hatori, the original voice of Noodle.
Subsequent dates in the residency will continue this unique format. Tonight, August 30, fans will be treated to the sophomore masterpiece “Demon Days” performed in its entirety, a feat not witnessed live since its original release in 2005. This performance will similarly recreate the original visuals and structural integrity of its initial live showcases.
Later in the residency, on September 2, the band is set to perform their 2010 third album, “Plastic Beach,” in full. This marks its first complete live rendition since two memorable shows at London’s Roundhouse 15 years prior, again promising a faithful recreation of the original visual spectacle.
Adding to the excitement around the virtual band, Damon Albarn recently confirmed that he is in the process of finalizing a new Gorillaz album. Slated for a 2025 release, this announcement underscores the band’s ongoing creative vitality and their commitment to pushing musical boundaries, further solidifying their place in popular music history.
