The Gorillaz have shared another tune from the band’s Song Machine series, titled “Aries”, which features U.K. producers Peter Hook and Georgia.
“Aries” follows “Désolé” and “Momentary Bliss” as a third release from the Song Machine series, which sees the virtual band—created by real-life musician Damon Albarn—collaborate with a wide variety of musicians on new tracks. Clearly guided by Hook’s synthpop, dance-rock, and new wave influences, “Aries” takes listeners on a lyrical journey of love lost and a desire to rekindle old relationships. 2D, the band’s virtual frontman, sings lines like “And even though you’re far away, can you see my red light?/ It’s waiting to turn green, ’cause I feel so isolated without you,” in a somber tone over a bouncy, poppy rhythm, before Hook harmonizes with him on the choruses.
The song’s video, directed by Jamie Hewlett, continues the Gorillaz saga as 2D and Murdoc drive on a motorcycle through towns and rural areas as Russel Hobbs and Noodle follow in a golf cart and dune buggy, respectively. Toward the end of the video, which is saturated with photo negative and sepia tones throughout, things turn grim, as the historically evil and longtime ne’er-do-well Murdoc pulls out a syringe and stares at 2D menacingly; foreshadowing a future episode in the Song Machine series.
After the screen fades to black, 2D then appears on screen once more to offer a bit of advice to those navigating through the ongoing coronavirus pandemic: “Make sure you stay in, stay safe, and stay tuned. Oh yeah, and keep washing your hands. Sweet.” Watch the new music video for “Aries” below.
Gorillaz ft. Peter Hook, Georgia – “Aries”
[Video: Gorillaz]
Be sure to visit the Gorillaz’s Instagram page for the latest information on new Song Machine releases. Murdoc recently penned a letter posted to the account which confirmed future releases and hinted at collaborations with Tame Impala, Schoolboy Q, and more. Read the letter below: