The virtual band Gorillaz has returned with The Mountain, their ninth studio album, marking a latest chapter for the group and launching from their newly established, self-owned label, KONG. Released on February 22, 2026, the album is being hailed as one of the most ambitious and spiritually resonant works in the band’s 25-plus-year history. The album’s release coincides with special performances at the Hollywood Palladium, where the band performed the album in full on February 22nd and 23rd, and the opening of their immersive House of Kong exhibition in Los Angeles following a successful run in London.
Clocking in at just under an hour with 15 tracks, The Mountain is described as a soundtrack for a liminal space – a party on the threshold between the here and now and what comes next. The album is a concept piece exploring themes of life, loss, and the sheer exhilaration of existence. It’s a bold move for a band that has consistently defied genre boundaries, and this latest offering pushes those limits even further.
The creation of The Mountain was a truly global undertaking. Recording took place across continents, from the band’s Studio 13 in London and Devon, to major cities like New York, Miami, and Los Angeles, and even as far afield as Damascus, Ashgabat, and spiritual sites in India, including Varanasi and Mumbai. This expansive recording process is reflected in the album’s sonic landscape, which seamlessly blends five languages – Arabic, English, Hindi, Spanish, and Yoruba – with a diverse range of musical influences.
The album’s sound is a rich tapestry woven from Indian sitar melodies played by Anoushka Shankar, driving hip-hop beats, synth-pop textures, and powerful post-punk elements. This collaborative spirit, a hallmark of Gorillaz featuring 2-D, Murdoc, Russel, and Noodle, reaches new heights on The Mountain. The guest list reads like a who’s who of music history, bringing together current stars, cult figures, and artists who have passed away.
A Chorus of Voices, Past and Present
Perhaps the most poignant aspect of The Mountain is the inclusion of posthumous contributions from a remarkable array of musical legends. The album features appearances from Bobby Womack, Dennis Hopper, De La Soul’s Dave Jolicoeur, Mark E. Smith of The Fall, Proof, and Afrobeat pioneer Tony Allen. These collaborations aren’t simply archival additions; they feel integral to the album’s exploration of mortality and remembrance. Gorillaz drummer Russel Hobbs aptly described the sentiment, stating, “As stardust, we are forever here. This is a musical meditation, permeated with light.”
The inclusion of these artists adds a layer of emotional depth to the album, acknowledging the enduring influence of those who have left a mark on music and culture. It’s a testament to the band’s ability to connect with artists across generations and to create a space where their voices can continue to resonate.
A New Era for Gorillaz
The Mountain isn’t just a musical statement; it also represents a significant shift in the band’s operational structure. The album is the first release on KONG, Gorillaz’s newly formed, self-owned record label. This move gives the band greater creative control and allows them to directly connect with their fanbase. The launch of KONG signals a new level of independence for Gorillaz, allowing them to shape their artistic vision without external constraints.
The band’s commitment to visual artistry remains central to their identity. Alongside the album release, Gorillaz are showcasing their immersive House of Kong exhibition, offering fans a deeper dive into the world of the band and the themes explored in The Mountain. The exhibition, which debuted in London, provides a multi-sensory experience that complements the album’s sonic landscape.
Looking Ahead
As of March 2, 2026, The Mountain is receiving airplay and critical acclaim, scheduled to be featured on radio stations between March 2nd and March 8th. Whereas the immediate focus is on the album’s release and the ongoing exhibition, Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett have hinted at the possibility of additional Gorillaz shows in the United States later this fall. Fans can stay updated on future tour dates and projects through the band’s official channels.
The Mountain is a compelling and deeply personal work from Gorillaz, a band that continues to innovate and challenge expectations. It’s an album that invites listeners to contemplate life’s big questions while offering a vibrant and immersive sonic experience. What are your thoughts on the new album? Share your reactions and discuss the themes of The Mountain in the comments below.
Worth a look
