Is The Now Now a good place to start with Gorillaz?

Yes, The Now Now is recommended as a starting point for new Gorillaz listeners. A introspective blend of eclectic sounds where electronic beats intertwine with reflective lyrics and artful melodies. The Now Now is Gorillaz's sixth studio album, released in 2018, following the commercially successful Humanz from 2017. This album showcases a more stripped-down approach, emphasizing Damon Albarn's songwriting while reflecting a shift towards personal themes amid the band's evolving sound.

Who is The Now Now for?

The Now Now works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective moments, laid-back grooves for contemplation and catchy melodies with introspective lyrics.

How many songs are on The Now Now?

The Now Now has 11 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

The Now Now

Gorillaz · 2018

40 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

A introspective blend of eclectic sounds where electronic beats intertwine with reflective lyrics and artful melodies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Humility Start here — This track features an upbeat groove paired with contemplative lyrics that critique superficiality, making it emblematic of the album's introspective nature.
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Tranz — With its pulsating rhythm and hypnotic vocals, this track encapsulates the album’s exploration of modern disconnection and escapism.
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Hollywood — This song critiques fame and the allure of Hollywood through a narrative lens, blending catchy hooks with deeper reflections on celebrity culture.
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Idaho — The atmospheric quality of this track introduces a sense of longing and nostalgia, contrasting sharply with the more upbeat songs on the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

63 /100

Treeline

Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album's blend of electronic and acoustic elements creates a distinct sound while maintaining strong songwriting.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of laid-back tempos, with most tracks maintaining a relaxed groove throughout.
Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in the choruses.
The instrumentation often blends acoustic elements with electronic sounds, creating a unique sonic palette.
Tracks like 'Idaho' and 'Lake Zurich' utilize minimalistic arrangements that emphasize space and atmosphere.

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: 8/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo reflective moments
laid-back grooves for contemplation
catchy melodies with introspective lyrics
for afternoon relaxation

Maybe skip if you

seek instant gratification tracks
prefer high-energy party music

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — Offers a cohesive sound but doesn't stand out as a key entry point or breakthrough.
Themes: celebrity culture critique· digital disconnection· nostalgic longing
Career context: The Now Now is Gorillaz's sixth studio album, released in 2018, following the commercially successful Humanz from 2017. This album showcases a more stripped-down approach, emphasizing Damon Albarn's songwriting while reflecting a shift towards personal themes amid the band's evolving sound.
Stylistic neighbors: Blur· Beastie Boys· Massive Attack