Today’s DJ Pick of the Week goes out to British virtual band, Gorillaz. Gorillaz formed in 1998 and consists of four animated band members: Stuart “2-D” Pot, Noodle, Murdoc Niccals, and Russel Hobbs. The band uses audiovisuals to immerse fans in a different reality. Well-known for tracks like “Feel Good Inc.” and “Clint Eastwood”, Gorillaz has been getting people screaming and dancing for around 20 years. Amidst the pandemic, the band has gone above and beyond to continue bringing their music to fans. Their latest project, Song Machine, is a web series full of unique singles with special features. From Robert Smith to Schoolboy Q to Elton John, Gorillaz has worked with artists from all genres. Rev. Keith’s DJ Pick of the Week goes to the second single from Song Machine, Season One: “The Valley of the Pagans”, featuring Beck.
“The Valley of the Pagans” has a mix of angsty bass and poppy synth throughout the track. The verses feature the classic talk-sing style of lead singer 2-D, known in his non-animated form as Damon Albarn. His low and compelling voice has such a terrific contrast with Beck’s high vocals in the chorus. The song is filled with futuristic and imaginative lyrics in the verses, leading to the chorus’s simple expression of satisfaction:
I feel so good to have a perfect soul
I feel so good to be in total control
2D and beck
“The Valley of the Pagans” episode of Song Machine was released just yesterday! Zoom through the streets of Los Angeles with Gorillaz in the video below.
In addition to the Song Machine episodes, Albarn told NME that Gorillaz would be playing a “Song Machine Live” gig series in December. The series would consist of three livestreamed performances, which would be the band’s first live shows since 2018. Keep an eye out those performances!
Be sure to tune into 100.1 FM or lightning100.com to hear “The Valley of the Pagans” by Gorillaz feat. Beck, featured as Stephanie’s DJ Pick of the Week. And we want to hear your thoughts! Tweet at us with #L100DJPick and give us your take on the track.
