What makes On Melancholy Hill by Gorillaz notable?

'On Melancholy Hill' became a commercial success, reaching number 8 on the UK Singles Chart and receiving critical acclaim for its innovative sound. The song has been recognized as one of the defining tracks of the late 2000s and has influenced many contemporary artists in the electronic and alternative genres. Released on June 12, 2010, 'On Melancholy Hill' marked the Gorillaz's return after a five-year hiatus following their previous album, 'Demon Days.' At this point in their career, the band was transitioning into a more accessible sound while still exploring complex themes through their animated personas.

How many songs are on On Melancholy Hill?

On Melancholy Hill has 4 tracks, running approximately 20 minutes.

On Melancholy Hill

Gorillaz · 2010

20 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

A buoyant blend of electronic pop and art rock, infused with a sense of longing and nostalgia.

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Top tracks — play these first

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On Melancholy Hill — This title track encapsulates the album's themes of nostalgia and longing through its catchy melody and reflective lyrics, creating an immersive listening experience.
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On Melancholy Hill (Japanese Popstars remix) — The remix takes the original's melodic hooks and infuses them with a vibrant electronic energy, showcasing how the song can transcend genres while maintaining its core essence.
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Stylo (Labrinth SNES remix) — This remix reinterprets 'Stylo' with a playful nod to retro gaming aesthetics, highlighting the Gorillaz's unique ability to blend different cultural references and sounds.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong melodic hooks and production quality, though the remixes dilute its cohesion.

What we noticed

The title track features a steady mid-tempo beat with layered synths and a prominent bassline that creates a sense of buoyancy.
The remixes included offer varied interpretations, with the Japanese Popstars remix introducing a faster tempo and more aggressive electronic elements.
The original track maintains a consistent melodic structure throughout, with a repetitive chorus that emphasizes its nostalgic theme.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — The single re-established Gorillaz's presence after a hiatus, gaining commercial success.
Themes: nostalgic longing· animated personas· buoyant melancholy
Career context: Released on June 12, 2010, 'On Melancholy Hill' marked the Gorillaz's return after a five-year hiatus following their previous album, 'Demon Days.' At this point in their career, the band was transitioning into a more accessible sound while still exploring complex themes through their animated personas.
Stylistic neighbors: Blur· Beastie Boys· Massive Attack