Gorillaz Embark on an Independent Global Journey with New Album 'The Mountain'

The pioneering virtual band Gorillaz has officially signaled the dawn of a transformative new era in their illustrious career. By announcing the upcoming release of their ninth studio album, titled "The Mountain," the group has also confirmed the massive "The Mountain Tour," which is scheduled to traverse the globe throughout 2026. This dual announcement marks a significant milestone for the animated collective, promising a fresh sonic direction and an expansive live experience for fans worldwide.

This particular release represents a monumental shift in the band's operational philosophy and business structure. "The Mountain" stands as the very first project to be released through the group's own independent record label, KONG. This move follows a long and successful tenure with major industry giants, including Parlophone and Warner Records, highlighting the band's desire for greater creative autonomy and control over their artistic output.

While the creative reins are now firmly in the hands of the band's independent label, the logistical reach of the project remains extensive. Distribution for the new record is being handled by The Orchard, a prominent subsidiary of Sony Music Entertainment. This partnership ensures that despite their independent status, Gorillaz will maintain a powerful global presence across all major retail and streaming platforms.

The sonic architecture of the album was meticulously constructed across a diverse array of international settings, reflecting the project's global ambitions. The primary recording sessions were distributed across several key locations to capture a variety of atmospheres and cultural influences. The main recording hubs included:

• Studio 13, located in both London and Devon, serving as the project's creative anchor.
• Various professional studios situated in the vibrant Indian cities of Mumbai, New Delhi, and Varanasi.

Damon Albarn, the musical mastermind and visionary behind the project, has confirmed that the material recorded for this album is a rich, multilingual tapestry. To reflect the borderless nature of their new sound, the band incorporated a wide range of vocal performances and lyrical contributions. The album features lyrics and themes delivered in several languages, including:

• English
• Spanish
• Arabic
• Hindi
• Yoruba

In terms of its physical and digital footprint, "The Mountain" is a substantial and immersive body of work. The final tracklist consists of 15 distinct compositions, offering a comprehensive look into the band's current creative state. The total running time for the album is precisely 66 minutes and 22 seconds, providing listeners with a deep and expansive journey through the band's latest musical innovations.

A core theme of this project is the intersection of different musical generations and the fusion of disparate cultural backgrounds. The album serves as a collaborative crossroads where established legends and modern innovators meet. Among the most anticipated and significant tracks on the record are those that bridge the gap between the past and the present.

One of the most poignant highlights of the album is the track titled "The Hardest Thing." This specific composition is notable for featuring a posthumous contribution from the late Afrobeat pioneer and legendary drummer Tony Allen. His inclusion serves as a powerful tribute to his long-standing relationship with Albarn and his enduring influence on the world of rhythm.

Further pushing the boundaries of modern collaboration, the song "Orange County" brings together a unique and eclectic trio of artistic talents. This track features the cutting-edge production of Bizarrap, the evocative spoken word and poetry of Kara Jackson, and the intricate, classical sitar melodies of Anoushka Shankar, creating a truly unique listening experience.

Beyond new collaborations, the project also serves as a bridge to the band's history by honoring the creative legacies of several departed icons. Through the careful integration of archival recordings and inherited artistic spirits, the album features the presence and influence of several legendary figures who have passed away, including:

• The soulful legend Bobby Womack
• The post-punk visionary Mark E. Smith
• The iconic actor and director Dennis Hopper
• The influential De La Soul member Dave Jolicoeur

The visual identity of "The Mountain" is just as vital to the experience as the music itself. Jamie Hewlett, the band's co-founder and visual director, crafted the album's striking cover art. His creative direction was deeply influenced by the team's extensive travels through India during the material's formative stages, capturing the colors and energy of the region.

Fans will not have to wait quite as long as initially anticipated for the full release of this landmark project. While the launch was originally slated for March 27, 2026, the official release date has been moved forward. The album is now scheduled to arrive on February 27, 2026, much to the excitement of the global fanbase eagerly awaiting new material.

To accommodate the diverse preferences of modern collectors and casual listeners alike, the album will be made available in a wide variety of formats. This multi-format release strategy ensures that the music is accessible to everyone, regardless of their preferred listening medium. The available formats include:

• High-quality vinyl records for audiophiles and collectors.
• Standard compact discs (CDs).
• Nostalgic cassette tapes for a retro listening experience.
• Full digital release across all major streaming and download services.

Ultimately, this release serves as a testament to the power of music as a universal language that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. By weaving together influences from London, India, Africa, and Latin America, Gorillaz have created more than just a studio record. They have successfully drafted a comprehensive and vibrant sonic map of our planet, proving once again that their creative vision knows no limits.